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In Summing Up  (5 of 5)

Imagine for a moment that you have something you really love to do, it enriches your life and brings you great joy- perhaps you don’t have to imagine, it is a reality for you. I put a question to you: If you were the last person to have that skill, would you be content in knowing that what you love would end if/when you could no longer use that skill? No one else would ever experience that same joy and fulfillment. Wouldn’t you want to share it with a receptive heart, teach them what you know, and encourage them to make it their own? Wouldn’t there be some gratification in watching how the focus of your artistic expression takes off in new directions after you have laid a foundation in someone else’s imagination?  

It must take a special commitment and love for one’s craft to impel this sharing.  Maybe it’s gratitude for the mentor that put you on your creative path, or a sense that this has been so precious to you that you know others will also find it a treasure. Possibly there is a creative regeneration that comes with viewing the process through the fresh eyes of the one you’re teaching. Regardless of the motivation, as we share our knowledge with others, we become absorbed in the unfolding history of the craft/skill/art form which has been such a part of our lives.



On both my visits, the weather happened to be dreary and uninviting, but inside the Torpedo Factory there was the welcoming smile, light, creative energy, and vitality. The special thing about the Torpedo Gallery is that, to a person, everyone I approached welcomed the opportunity to share. In studio after studio the artists were engaging and generous with their time and knowledge.

 The city of Alexandria is to be commended for their support of this special place. It is truly a gem in their midst.

   

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