This month, I took a fantastic class on concrete sand casting at Maverick Mosaics taught by Bonnie Fitzgerald and Andrea Taylor. I learned how to mix sand and cement to produce one-of-a-kind concrete forms ready for mosaic adornment. My concrete bird basin is pictured at left. I haven't posted a blog in a couple of weeks because I was determined to only post if I could share a perfect video that captures how much fun the class was despite my lack of experience with video editing!
Wise words from my childhood art teacher, Mary Anne Staples, rang in my head this morning. Mary Anne would say, "Julie, do what you know and then go from there." So, here it is- here is what I know. Today, I can share photos of this class with you, and tomorrow I will hunt down a computer whiz to help me with the rest of it!
(Pictured on right: Bird basin in progress. Fifteen minutes of brainstorming color combinations and fifteen minutes of mosaic application.)
Why is it that we think we must do it all and know it all today? This is a lesson that humbles me again and again. It is a reminder of one of the reasons I am so drawn to the art of mosaic. My artistic self can create one section at a time and pace it around my other life roles; mother, wife, daughter, friend, volunteer, and teacher. It is a greater truth to say that my artist self needs to create daily in order to remain grounded. The medium allows artistic creation on a daily basis in my life. Creating a sketch or a partial mosaic for as little a fifteen minutes in the morning ignites me and sends me soaring through the day. That connection sets the tone for the rest of the day...in all my roles!
Is there something you long for- something that you have pushed aside because you are afraid it will not be good enough, or take too long?
Try dedicating 15 minutes a day to it- even if that fifteen minutes is spent seeking someone who can help you with your dream. By honoring your innermost desire with your time, you will feel balanced and energized.
Julie, on the perfection topic as it relates to you - in my mind and heart you already are perfect! Keep marching forward, you are doing great and I love watching your work develop. Your presence at Maverick Mosaics is a wonderful ray of sunshine. Also, I really like the grout discussion and factoring it into design. The examples you site are very helpful!
Posted by: Bonnie | 04/28/2010 at 04:01 AM
Thank you, Brit. My heart felt loosened from my ego as I read your beautiful definition of true perfection. Thank you for your response.
Posted by: Julie McKee | 04/27/2010 at 08:38 PM
perfection |pərˈfek sh ən|
noun
the condition, state, or quality of being free or as free as possible from all flaws or defects.
What a subjective word, perfection. So what is perfection, really? Who decides? The ego or the heart?
For me, true perfection is something made from the heart, with love. In my world, anything made with love will resonate much more than something "technically perfect" that is lacking love.
And Julie, your love shines!!!
Posted by: Brit Hammer | 04/27/2010 at 02:59 AM