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JANUARY 2004
I spent December 06th visiting several art and craft bazaars in Portland OR. From knitters to painters to book binders, everyone seemed to be doing something creative, different and wonderful.On December 07th, I went to our own Alicia Paulson's bazaar which featured even more artists of various talents. In the two days of being exposed to so many people and talents, I realised just how varied art really is. I learned that there isn't one way to make art because there isn't one kind of art to make.
Two years ago when the idea of creating this web site was locked in my brain but I hesitated. My vision of site about women who made creative dreams real wasn't like any site I had seen before. Because of that, I wondered if it would be accepted. Two years later with almost 30 incredible artists featured, over 7,000 visitors each day, a supportive, wonderful group of women on the discussion list, and even a nomination for a huge award, I know that this site is more than accepted. Putting it out there despite being scared paid off, it usually does.
The same applies to my writing. At first I was hesitant if my style would sell. It didn't seem to be the style I saw being published anywhere as it's neither flashy, sexy nor hip. I thought about changing my style until I realised that perhaps my style isn't out there because I'm not writing it! When I made attempts at publishing, I was successful. In fact, I was once told by an editor to never change my voice because it was needed.
Sometimes we hold back on doing something because it doesn't fit with what we think we should do or what we think is acceptable. We think we can't paint like Van Gogh so how can we be an artist? But the truth is, that's what creativity is about - thinking outside the box. Doing what is in us to do and presenting that to the world. More often than not, what we share as artists is needed and appreciated. Holding all that talent in benefits no one, least of all ourselves.
The New Year is a perfect time to give power to your art and give yourself a fresh start. To do the things you didn't think you could or should do. 2004 is a new year, with new beginnings and new doings - and there really is a place for it all.