Just reflecting on the past weekend….and I am feeling so fulfilled. It's an amazing thing to have an idea, to visualize it, to nurture it, to explore it, and then finally, to share it. Stairway to Heaven is a workshop concept I have lived with for over a year. It's been like holding a secret. I got to reveal it not once but twice to an awesome group of women. Some were new-to-me friends, some were veteran favorites. They ALL ROCKED. It was thrilling to see them take on this project, each with their own flair. As an instructor you commit yourself to presenting something new and fresh, and hope it takes hold and provides a platform for growth. You endeavor to teach *process*, disguised as a *project*. You put yourself out there, hoping that their greatest take-away is enthusiasm for creativity.
I don't take it lightly that artists choose to spend their time and money on a workshop with me. I consider it an honor that the time they set aside to commit to art is with me. While I hope to fuel, or re-fuel them, they most definitely re-fuel me. Their presence, their eagerness to work, and the results that follow offer me validation on many levels. I am so grateful.
Unplanned, there was a word I latched onto and repeated during class: commit. It was the perfect prompt at the time, as I tried to encourage students to commit to a color palette, commit to a page shape and arrangement, to commit to adding content. It was appropriate then, and when you think about it, it is the best way to continue moving forward as you build a book, or work on a painting or collage or whatever it is you do. Small steps, small commitments, inform and direct the following steps, the following choices. You make a decision and it opens up the possibilities to what happens next. Mistakes may occur but that is where the real learning often takes place. It is in making commitments that you evolve.
There were a few jokes about *fear of commitment* but it was all in fun. I'm sure there were moments we could have asked to be *committed*. They did commit big time by creating really wonderful, special, unique books. They committed by making time for art and friendship, and by sharing in the creative process as we all learned things from one another. That's what happens in workshops. ESPECIALLY at Valley Ridge. We all extend our thanks to Kathy and Bill for their commitment to providing this spectacular venue where magic takes place. I'm certain there is fairy dust in the air.
How cool is that? You see my cute little Mom? She committed a weekend to join us in the fun!
Right now I am committing time to wrap up my proposals for 2010 at VRAS. I am psyched for the ideas that are channeling in. I am giddy about going back next September. The workshop schedule will be posted soon, I'll let you know when to hop over for a look.
Thank you ladies, for your commitment. You have gifted me with energy and validation and satisfaction and fulfillment. I am a lucky girl to have climbed the Stairway to Heaven with you.