papermache

Gurtie the Gromling

Posted on by Process

Life can be busy sometimes. Today was one of those days. It started early and never stopped. Time was just flying by. As with most busy days, I got a lot done.

The world waits, but not for long. As a creator I have to keep producing. I get asked a lot where do I keep coming up with new ideas. to be honest I am not sure. I can give you the crazy answer. When I was working on Gurtie, she was telling me stories about her friends.

In reality, these little guys have been running around in my head for years. When I started in college I was challenged with my assignments to create. These little creatures began to show up. Yes I did all the classical works, such as painting with a limited palette, Abstraction of form, and even copy old masters. Still, these lovelies keep making appearances.

So after a while I just went with it. Gromlings are have been made in cast Bronze, clay, plaster, aluminum, concrete, stone and now paper. the point of all this is that art is a process. You try many things and before you know it, you have a voice. Your style develops because it is what you do. It is not a forced exercise, is is a natural extension of yourself.

Spend your time creating what you love. The world needs your unique vision, and you need the vehicle of expression. So if you need to with ketchup, you do you. That is how the world becomes a better place for everyone.

George from Enchantedland

Eduardo The Gromling

Posted on by Process

Life can be challenging at times. My biggest struggle is that monster called balance. I mean what does that even look like? I think i have it then I realize I need to bath the dogs and do laundry. or I turn around and I haven’t seen friends in weeks.

Finding that balance seems to be the magic formula for success. Gurus talk about it all the time. Who cleans and decorates their houses while they make videos telling me how to find balance before they jet off to Italy?

I am not sure balance is a good way to address the issue. Yes, it may be just the ticket for some, but I need something more. My work dominates my life. I like it that way. For me my work is my life. Just try to spend a few weeks with me when I cannot work. I can tell you grumpy is not the best word to describe me in those times.

Maybe I do have balance, but not in the everything is perfect way. I rush from my work table, quickly wash my hands never getting them completely clean. Let the dogs out. Start the washer. Go to the bathroom. check my emails while I am in there, I know gross. then rush back to let the dogs in before grabbing a tea(cold because it has set in the pot too long) and heading back to work.

That is the balance that works for me. Get stuff done as fast as possible so I can get back to work. How do you deal with the balance of work and life? Do you think about how others manage? Let me know your thoughts!

George from Enchantedland

Spring Arrives

Posted on by Process

Today the world is in a bit of a state. Oftentimes I find it challenging as I am sure others do as well. I escape into my world of creatures where something might eat me, but generally everything is just beautiful and joyous.

I do not wish to downplay any of the seriousness of the current situation. The world is in desperate need of change. People are dying from disease and violence. All of this needs to be addressed and quickly.

I do try to focus on the beauty around me. Spring Arrives is a lovely example of that attempt. If you stare into her eyes, you can see the compassion and concern. She has managed to wear her best spring colors, but the weight of the world is on her shoulders.

She has lived a thousand springs and each one is met with anticipation. She has a job to do. She is to bring beauty into the world. I think we all should try to be beautiful people. People who care are the only people who have ever created lasting change in our world.

I am one of those people. I care. I try to do my part. I see other artists posting sales for members of the society in need. I have thought about that, but I feel it is better for me to donate in silence. I do not want to be promoting my work at the expense of someone else. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that type of work, it is just not how I function.

As this Sunday comes to a close, I am reflective on the past week and hopeful for the coming one. I want to encourage each of you to spread love, hope and joy as you begin this week. Give a little extra to your fellow human. Me and my creature family would really love that!

George from Enchantedland

Ralph the Gromling

Posted on by Process

I love making something from raw materails. The thought of taking something like raw sheep wool and spinning wool, turning clay into pots, and using recycled paper to create sculpture really rocks my world.

Ralph is one of my recycled paper sculpts. He is just amazing to me. I took some discarded paper and created something. That is what I enjoy teaching others to do. In my classes, the best time is when I see a participant get it. When I see their eyes light up because they have created with their own hands something they cannot even believe.

Knowing that I have provided someone with a tool that they can then start to develop into their unique expression. It is a real joy to see their work a few years down the road, often they have far excieded my skills, but they have grown. it is truly a wonderful experience.

So muy hope for you today is that you continue to learn and grow. That youy choose to create something with your time. Something that will change your life and improve your skill set for the future.

George from Enchantedland