Finding My Way
I lived many years of my life hiding from my true self, the artist that lived within
me. At first, there was fear to step away from what was learned in my growing up
years. A talent was to be used to choose a project of merit that would be useful
for the family. Letting go to move away from utilitarian makings seemed
treasonous at best. I learned to sew, knit, crochet and basket making. I used
fabrics to make quilts, soft sculpture, and clothes. I wove pine needles into artistic
vessels. My teachings from my past were the basis for these projects. Each one
had a handhold in the past that mingled with a true desire for change.
I had to let go of my early teachings and let myself believe I too could be an
artist. I wanted to explore art making. A basic design class in college was my first
step to freedom. My eyes were opened to a new world. I learned about design,
along with life drawing, printmaking, and sculpture. I was transfixed when I first
attended a Mark Rothko exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum. The paintings
were huge. The color palette was bold and serene. I wanted to be a part of this
world called, Art. I questioned if I had what it would take to be an artist. Could I
find my way and express myself making art?