I recently got to participate in a very cool event. I belong to an organization called SAQA (Studio Art Quilt Associates.) The Florida region had an all day event called Art, Meet, and Greet. It was a blast!
We got to see a regional exhibit, earn door prizes, participate in a regional meeting, have Show and Tell, visit with one another, and hear a 3-person presentation called “Creative Courage.”
The three speakers are shown here: me, Bobbi Baugh, and Kestrel Michaud.
The three of us were asked to share times when we took a risk with either our artwork or our business decisions. And to show both successes and failures. The result was fascinating, entertaining, and informative. We three speakers did not consult with one another on our presentations so they ended up being quite different, which was great.
I went first and talked about my philosophy of embracing experimentation. My example of trying new things while learning to cook brought lots of chuckles. But, I tied it to my quilting philosophy by sharing one of my favorite quotes, “If you never fail, you’re not experimenting enough.” I truly believe that!
Easily Distracted
Kestrel shared her concept of safety rails: always having a financial back up when taking financial risks. She told us about the passive income she’s able to achieve with her online Patreon platform. She also showed us many of her art rules as well as new techniques she’s develop0ed.
Her piece, Arrival, shown here, has recently won Best of Show at Road 2 California and the Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival.
You gotta love Bobbi! She challenged us to “get over ourselves” (my words,) and to quit making excuses for not showing our work or not being happy with it. She said to just MAKE MORE WORK. Bobbi also showed us several of her quilts about the life of a young girl. She is really excellent at conveying a story.
Growing Unseen
And now, the good news: you can see this entire presentation, thanks to Kestrel Michaud, who has posted it on her website. Find it here and let me know what you think. Do you need a dose of courage?
Ellen Lindner
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