Awe-Inspiring Variety
Frequent readers will know that I’m involved with the New Mexico State Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts. One of the many benefits the all-volunteer non-profit offers its artist members is inclusion into their online directory, or artist registry, of women-identifying artists residing in the state.
Recently I had the chance to get involved in helping create new artist registry pages for new members and was quite literally gobsmacked by the astounding variety of creative self expression.
Dear reader, intellectually I know that no two artists create the same way even if they are inspired by the same thing or painting the same object. But to spend time learning about the variety of mediums, subjects, and techniques, and then seeing the creative results from over 400 artists really humbled me.
Regardless of wether or not I was moved by the artwork in the registry or if I felt a connection to it, what resonated with me and almost moved me to tears was the awe-inspiring variety.
I realized that I am but one snowflake in a blizzard of swirling creative energy being expressed through amazing art all around the state, and indeed, the world.
What a beautiful and inspiring thought.
Especially living in times that challenge our sense of security and hope for the future
I find it reassuring to see people dedicating their time to creating something that never existed before. Wether that is an abstract painting capturing their emotional state at a particular time or a bronze sculpture of a small woodland creature, or a quilt combing shape and color into a kaleidoscope, it doesn't really matter. Just knowing that another human being took time out of their daily life to make something new gives me hope.
The infinite variety of life experiences and self expression is breathtaking.
So, if you need some hope and amazement in your day, I highly recommend scrolling through the Artist Registry. My prediction is that it will be more rewarding than "doom scrolling" on social media!
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