It's not always an easy or predictable road that we are on as glass artists, but it is an absolutely satisfying and rewarding one. The desire to continue to pursue our passion and our need to create something meaningful or expressive can allow us to view our experiences with renewed insight. The creative process can help cope with stress and be very meditative. For me, glass could be considered my therapist or counselor, so . . . no torch time = grouchy.
With production work, I've found that I can lose myself in the piece that I've made so many times and zone out on the flame. This leaves me with the mental space to quietly consider problems or difficult situations I am having trouble working out that have nothing to do with glass. There are other times, though, that I have a concept of my own that I feel I need to express. It may take me a while to work out the process in my head, but the longing won't go away until the piece is done. The feeling that I get is much different from that of prodo. There is a release of emotion.
The ability to adjust and shift between what we want to make and what sells can be precarious, especially in this economy. I find great satisfaction in making utilitarian objects. This is helpful when the economy is down, because with most purchases our "wants" are outweighed by our "needs." I enjoy the idea of glass being used every day instead of just being placed on the shelf. Glass that serves a purpose allows art to seep into our everyday lives.
So whether you use glass for your own selfish, therapeutic purposes as I do or are suffering from creative block, keep lighting the torch. If you don't know what to make, just put a rod in the flame and it will come to you.
As always . . . Keep your light shining and your torches lit!
Jennifer Menzies
Upcoming Deadlines for Submission
Winter 2011 Seventh Annual Women in Glass
Release Date December 17, 2011
Spring 2012 The Forms of Function
Submission Deadline December 30, 2011
Release Date March 16, 2012
Summer 2012 Collaborative Issue
Submission Deadline March 30, 2012
Release Date June 14, 2012
If you are interested in becoming a contributing artist for The Flow, visit www.theflowmagazine.com for a link to themes of upcoming issues, author guidelines, and submission forms.
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