"The position of the artist is humble. He is
essentially a channel."
- Piet Mondrian |
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The Art of Creating
There is no such thing as an uncreative human. It is simply that individuals are often not
conscious of it. We must realize creativity is not constrained by the narrow context we
place it in. The simple act of existing is creative. You create thoughts, create situations,
and while you sleep, you create dreams. People who describe themselves as not creative
may conjure up elaborate excuses for not showing up for work. Or on a much larger scale
for example, many conflicts occurring through out the world do not happen by accident.
They are created by manipulation of thought. Ultimately, however, the greatest form of
expression is creating new life. Again, since much of this occurs unconsciously, it is
taken for granted (especially in the "civilized" world). Therefore, I surmise, we are all
creators.
As an artist, I consciously create my pieces - at least for much of the process. To begin
with, I usually draw a rough sketch to act as a guide. Then, I go about my creation with
purposeful intent. There is a point along the way, however, when things are literally out
of my hands and uncertainty enters into the picture. Maybe there's a problem with the
firing or what looked good on paper, looks odd with dimension. Sometimes the
unforeseen happens. I am never completely sure when things are going to turn out well.
Perhaps, that's the way it should be. In my mind's eye I have envision the finished
product. The actual piece may be more beautiful or interesting than I imagined
(transcending the actual process) or it could be a disappointment. That's one of the risks
of creating.
Silver clay adds a dimension of excitement. There is a visual and tactile metamorphosis
from clay-like to bright silver - from soft to hard - from organic to metallic. Physical
(and metaphysical) transformation is always exciting. It is often said about silver clay, if
you can imagine it, you can build it. My motivation is to create pieces that are familiar
and yet interestingly seductive and to explore the outer design limits of this relatively
new art form. As I gradually incorporate traditional metalsmithing techniques into my
work, I hope to bridge any perceived divide between silver clay and the "old-school" of
jewelry creation. I am more excited about what I will create rather than what I have
created. As I express the creator in me, I celebrate the creator in all of us. For it is our
true nature. 
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