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They say a bamboo forest springs up suddenly. But, long
before any signs of growth or shoots appear, a flurry of activity occurs
underground. A vast network of roots busies itself for years…connecting,
knitting and weaving a strong support system that will become the foundation for amazing creations. The little root connections all work together, helping each
other grow and in the process, they become the “seeds” of the
skyscraper-sized potential hidden inside them.
Their quiet
connections become a framework for their future success.
That just how we felt today as we participated in the design
seminar, Discovering Yourself As An Artist, at the Hudgens Center for the Arts,
led by renowned artist, Kathy Fincher. A lovely, diverse group of artists
gathered and the creative connections began immediately, with Kathy weaving an informative
seminar around each participant. (You know it’s a good talk when everyone completely
forgets about lunch and looks up to see that 2:00 has arrived!)
How does such a diverse group of creatives connect so
quickly? By having the right “growing” environment. Instead of competition, there was a camaraderie and a willingness
to share every professional and artistic piece of advice that could be passed on. An
absolute abandonment to creative development seem to spread through the entire
session and all of our artistic roots were well watered.
Insights from Kathy on developing a creative voice, art
licensing, branding, and web
development had many scribbling
notes rapidly... and her personal story of discovering art was so moving,(see
yesterday’s blog and video link). Our wrap up included a review of artwork and
websites by some of the participants … “bamboo shoots” themselves, some large,
some small, some undiscovered, but all being strengthened and celebrated by
each other for the unique creativity they possess. Just get
ready for the silent explosion of artistic expression that will come from some
of these “bamboo shoots” we met today! Wow. We hope to share photos of their work in future blogs.
All this time for connecting could be considered unnecessary. Why not simply focus on creating artwork? Because, like the bamboo forest, these connections make you
stronger, better and open up collateral
creativity. The kind that just makes you explode with new ideas and
inspiration. That must be how bamboo shoots feel when, after five years of no visible growth, they shoot
through their earth canopies with a skyscraper soar and grow up to 90’ in 6 weeks. An astounding rate of growth only achievable with a strong,
connective, supportive root system.
Imagine the possibilities with a supportive network of creative people!
So, go develop that root system of yours! There’s still time
to catch a few of Kathy Fincher’s seminars before her show closes. Call the Hudgens Center for the Arts for
details, since these last seminars may not appear on the events calendar. http://thehudgens.org/?page_id=42
Feeling quite creatively nourished,
The Velvet Lime Girls
