Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Art Leads to More Art


From The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt: Her response to any performance, any work of art, was the desire to make another, to make her own.

This is my response, too, when I do any of the above. If I'm away from home, I scribble the idea into a little notebook I carry just for that purpose. If I don't act on it soon, though, it's birth and death will be in that notebook.

When I think about all the art I could have made, all the stories or songs I could have written if only I had taken the time to act on an idea, it makes me sad.

But instead of dwelling in sadness (which isn't very conducive to making art) I'll try and put that attitude away and focus instead on what I have made. Better yet, I'll plan in my head the things I'll hopefully get around to making soon.

5 comments:

Leslie said...

I remember an art teacher in college carried an itty bitty watercolor pad and watercolors in his shirt pocket. I love your new header!

Pom Pom said...

It seems like all the experts say, "Just do it." Play.

debbie bailey said...

You're absolutely right, of course, Pom Pom. I know this in my head, but this personality of mine keeps wanting to get upset and depressed if I can't make art. Balance...balance. Argh!!!! And play and have fun!

Laura A said...

I've got what may seem like a dumb question: Is that watercolor yours? Because I love it! It seems like the kind of watercolor that would be in the best children's books, ones I'd buy and never give away,

debbie bailey said...

Well, thanks Laura! Yes, I painted it, although I can't take full credit. I copied it from a book. I love simple paintings combining watercolor and ink. Maybe a new calling for me? Like I need another one!