How often are you drawn to an image or design that is old… classic… even clich?d?
The familiar can also be comforting, and if that's what you're after then reproducing an old classic quilt, or reproducing another artist's work, can be very satisfying.
However, for many, it is unthinkable to copy or reproduce another's work, when creating a quilt or work of art, even if it is by an artist from a couple hundred years ago.
Truly, either way is fine. (As long as you are not breaking another's copyright for self profit) What is most important is that we find joy, peace, or healing in the process. We make it our own by doing what WE enjoy, not what we think others expect.
During my visit to Venice over New Years, I thought a lot about this concept. I absolutely delighted in discovering and photographing those classic views of cathedral silhouettes, gondolas reflected in canal waters, and the open spaces of Piazza San Marco.
However I was also alert to the opportunity to capture an image with a sense of humor, with some local color, or with the irony of hyper-tourism in this antiquated city.
Why do we create?
To express a feeling that cannot be verbalized.
To release an energy that can be shared visually with others.
To follow a pure urge to make things.
We can talk about it and think about it and even argue about why we create, but all that really matters is that we do it.
Whether you are copying the work of a master, or an anonymous 17th century crafts person…whether you are inventing from scratch or meticulously recreating another's beautiful idea….it is all valid and valuable.
Learn the concepts of color and design by copying, then use the work of others as a springboard for your own creative process. We are all influenced by the work of others. Lets be honest about that. Then we can build on top of what we have learned, and rearrange all the elements into something fresh and intriguing.
While in Venice I knew that my best photos would be by the water's edge at sunset, (thanks to the work of countless artist over a few centuries) but then I followed the wisdom of my own eye, and made it my own.
I've posted my first batch of Venice photos on my photo page, and on my Facebook Color and Design page. Enjoy!
Best wishes and Happy sewing,
Luana
********************
6 Houston Quilt Festival Videos available now!
See my photo page for travel images, comment on my blog, follow me on Facebook or Twitter for more color and design ideas. Quilt show reviews on the eQuilter Video page.
11 Day Tour of Ireland + Quilt Festival
(click "View Trip Itinerary" for details)
June 5-15 with Luana
$3165 Air/Land, $2573 Land Package Only
Click Here to See ALL our Newest Products This Week!
Share Post:
