Such is the nature of a hand crafted object. Marks from the hands of the maker of the item are part of the signature on the piece, and add to the richness of its beauty. Experiences and challenges in our lives are part of the tapestry that give our existence texture and meaning.
As always, please feel free to leave me a comment, or a stone (o), to let me know that you’ve stopped by.
I have mused about art many times, both here and internally, it’s creation and what it brings to my life. I have posted variations on this post as I continue to think about art. What is it’s purpose? Does form follow function? What makes a piece work—or not? And why should I buy it. Why buy art?
My friend Cat Bennett has addressed the question thoughtfully and eloquently:
Why buy art?
-To lift your spirit
-To expand your spirit
-To meet your spirit
-To brighten your day
-To brighten your home
-To brighten your life
-To honor an artist
-To declare your value
-To have fun
-To know yourself
-To inspire yourself
-To inspire others
-To share your wealth
-To laugh
So many reasons.
Art feeds the spirit and soul; it brings light and life to being. Art can make your heart sing and your spirit soar. Something that comes from the heart through the hands. It is no accident that there is art in heART.
When you support an artist, you affirm the creative spirit. You have the opportunity to see the world in a different way, as the artist’s vision is manifested in the piece he or she has made.
When you buy art, you support your local economy, both the economy of your community and the economy of the spirit. You enrich your life with the feeling and intent the artist has instilled in the piece. You can know that you are buying something that was made with care, one at a time, by hand.
Look for the mark of the craftsman, that which lets you know that the piece was made by a person and not by a machine. That which lets you discover the beauty in imperfection and in the profound nature of being. That which embraces the natural cycles of life and authenticity.
These skilled hands wish you and those close to you happy, healthy, peaceful and loving days; and healing and peace to this amazing blue planet we call home.
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTISTS: BUY ART.
As always, please feel free to leave a comment, or a stone (o), to let me know you’ve stopped by.
Take a look at My Town Monday to see what others have to say about the places they call home
The Village of Peninsula, population 602, is a wonderful place. Located in the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley, the Village cherishes it’s history and also looks to its future.
The Peninsula Library and Historical Society is an important part of the community. It’s staffed by a pretty amazing group of people. It’s the kind of place where people know your name and ask how your family is doing. In addition to a fabulous collection of books and other resources, the Library has programs and events for folks of all ages and interests. For the past 5 years, the library has hosted a Mini-Tree Raffle. The raffle is a fundraiser for children’s programming at the library and for the Peninsula Area Chamber of Commerce. Merchants and community members create and donate a tree to be raffled. This year, 18 trees were donated, and over 200 tickets have been sold. The raffle continues through December 20; and the library is open Monday-Thursday from 9 AM-8PM, and Saturdays from 9-5. Here’s a look at some of the trees. I will post more photos as I am able to edit them. The raffle continues until December 20.
***On another note, the Peninsula Library is a finalist in Playaway’s Picture This contest. The winning Library will win $10,000. Please visit this link and cast your vote. 602 people will thank you.***
As always, please feel free to leave me a comment, or a stone, (o), to let me know you’ve stopped by.
What do over 120 volunteers, a train full of excited children, and a guy in a red suit have in common? If you had been in my town last week, you would have seen the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s special run of the Polar Express.
Vehicles full of people began to arrive in the Village. They proceeded to the depot, emerging in festive attire. The cars kept coming. Soon the tracks were lined with elves, gingerbread folks, snowmen and other fantastic characters. Santa rested on a bench, waiting for his moment.
Doug drove his special train into place. All was ready. Soon train whistles were heard in the distance, coming closer by the minute. As the train pulled into the North Pole, the elves went into action, waving as they welcomed the train.
This was a special train, filled with children with special needs, their families and caregivers. The excitement was palpable. The wee train with Santa aboard rounded the corner, and Santa waved to the children on the train. The train pulled out, and another train pulled into the Village; this one also had special passengers. Once again,the elves and Santa shared their magic, and the train departed, taking it’s special cargo back. Then, as quickly as they arrived, the 120 volunteers departed. It was quiet. But for those moments, their was no question that we were in the North Pole, sharing magic with kids and families who understand what it is to BELIEVE.
As always, feel free to leave me a comment, or a stone (o), to let me know you’ve stopped by. Wander on over to My Town Monday to see who has to say what about the place called home.
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