From reading the comments, it seems that artistic road blocks and creative detours, (which can leave us feeling more lost then we feel comfortable with) are pretty common, and it helps to be reminded that not only are we not alone on our journey, it's actually an okey-dokey place to be.
If we just stay calm, and even take some time to be at peace with the odd cross-roads which we find ourselves standing in, we might even learn a thing or two.
Well, I'm still at those creative cross-roads, scratching my head over which way to go, but I'm making peace with the fact that this is where I am, and trusting that eventually I will feel like I am on the right path again. I guess the thing that I am trying to learn is patience, (which seems to be a lesson that I keep needing to learn over, and over again).
In the meantime I am going to be listing the pieces that I made a few weeks ago, (and actually liked!) and do my best to just begin enjoying where I am in the moment, even if it feels a bit directionless.
These two "Mini Scrap Quilts" can be found here and here.
(I have a few more that I will be listing in the next few days.)
And here's to all of you... where ever you you find yourself in your own creative journey, know that I am grateful for getting to walk this path with such generous, lovely and talented kindred spirits. xo
P.S. I'm reading the comments, and have to say, don't worry about me! I'm well and fine, and have my sense of humor fully intact! I tend to get philosophical about things, but believe me, I'm not being hard on myself, I'm just antsy, (as I get bored easily doing the same thing over and over) and impatient to figure out something new. (If patience is a virtue, it's a virtue that I lack!) This post was simply to say that I am learning not to rush things and to be more content being where I am, instead of where I think I should be.
27 comments:
lovely.
I always have a 'no-brain' project on the side for those grey days when the juices don't flow. Normally some crochet or really simple knitting....
dont be so hard on youself, sometimes you have to let things cook for a while......
That is one of the things I really like about hand quilting: it is such a slow process that you do not need to be thinking of the next project unless you want to. It is very meditative, and a lot of different ideas come your way while you are routinely stitching and stitching.
Victoria,
Such a beautiful post. We often forget that art happens naturally and at it's own will. The freedom of our inner soul is more responsible than the needs, wants and deadlines to create freely and successfully.
I love your work.. These two are no different. Lovely photographs as usual too!
Enjoy your day!
That creative direction will happen when you least expect! Very lovely pieces you've created.
Everyone has really summed it up. Just take a few deep breaths and a step back. It will all come in time. Love the beautiful quilt!
Thanks for sharing. Glad to hear you are ok with where you are at. The new works look stunning!
Oh your two quilts went too fast for me.
All will come in good time, life has taught me that. You are brilliant it will be ok.
It is comforting to know we are never alone in our troubles.
It's all a part of the process - I have no doubt you'll get there, and be all fired up when you do! I love your pieces, they're wonderful - the heavy stitching is very tempting to touch!
I'm currently being diverted away from sewing - lost myself in some spinning last week and am now considering a little felting project (a protective pouch for my new smart phone) but do I needle felt or wet felt?
Oh Victoria, don't be so hard on yourself and as others say take a step back and relax! A touch of Quilt Flu perhaps? I find your work so exciting and creative and I was looking closely at the pic posted on 28th jan. What threads did you use on the over thread work that carry the colours from one block out to the others may I ask? That is one of the touches that make the quilt so successful for me. Also like the thrifty touch!!
Freda P , Scotland
I have recently found your blog and have enjoyed your photos of your beautiful quilts. Four girlfriends & myself are visiting PA in early May from Australia, do you have your work on display anywhere in Lancaster? Also, I so love your photos in Worn & Weathered. Can't wait to visit to see the beautiful countryside. from Jenny
Thanks to each of you... and don't worry about me, I have my sense of humor, and really am not being hard on myself... I just am impatient!
Freda, The quilt in thread that I used is Sulky Cotton Blendables, in a 12 wt. You can find a link to there site if you scroll down on my blog and look on the right hand bar side under "Resources".
Jenny, Currently I don't have my work displayed locally, but I hope you have a wonderful time visiting Lancaster! The city is a true gem, (be sure to visit the Central Market, which is the oldest continuely operating farmers market in the US, and you might enjoy the quilt museum next door). Plus, the rural countryside is breath taking! (Caution: Don't get fooled into thinking that the tourist area around Rt 30 East is a true representation... it's a fun day trip, full of things to do and places to shop, but make sure to explore the back roads for a true look at the beautiful countryside!
Victoria,
I've just recently found your blog ~ so impressed with your work. It's made me start to play with solids a bit more and I'm really liking the process. I think that's what I like about quilting ~ the process.
Thank you so much for the inspiration you give me!
These pieces are both peaceful and deliciously edgy at the same time -- what a great use of color.
It would seem that, whenever any of us is in a creative funk, all we need do is share our work with other kindred souls -- hopefully, these lovely comments by everyone should give your spirits a lift. Even if YOU'RE not enjoying your work right now, other people are LOVING it.
Diane
Beautiful pieces! I know we never have to worry about you, your strength shows through in your work! It's just reassuring to know that we all go through these ups and downs in our work. I like Monica's comment about keeping a no-brain project nearby to help you make it through.
Remember, you've had a lot happen in the last year. It's not surprising that your mojo has taken a little vacation. Once it's back from scuba in Australia or hiking in the Andes you will be on track!
I love your mini scrap quilts! You'll be on the right path again before you know it! Being directionless can be difficult to deal with but if you give yourself into it, it may lead you into magical places. Trust and let go and all will be fine I reckon. Or simply take a little holiday. Australia is nice this time of year ;)
Some great words of wisdom there. I'm sure you'll find which path to tread before too long. ♥
just read your last post and I have been there so many times it's like my second home!! we do bounce back though don't we.
I have to say that I'm very inspired by your quilts! I am the one that is stumped or blocked - I've only made two things in a year:( You on the other hand keep going to the machine...I am trying to stop dreaming and doing. Glad you are who you are...you are helping others (me!)while on your journey and with ours(mine!). I don't want you to feel like you are stuck but I'm glad you shared your feelings! It is hard to read others blogs when they seem so perfect...perefection is boring!! Good luck on your journey!
Thank you for that link! I did buy some Sulky Gutterman thread this week,before reading your response but 30 weight. I'll search the stalls at the Scottish Show in Edinburgh next weekend and hoppe to find it.
This should kickstart me too.
Freda P
nr Edinburgh, Scotland
I have full faith in your work, and know that your creative path will lead you in the right direction! Trust me, we all feel very lost at times but your beautiful work is one of a kind. It will you where you're meant to go.
Doesn't that tension create marvelous results and everyone seems to be loving pink, including me.
xox Corrine
I'm loving your new work! Beautiful colors, and your design and stitching are always divine.
that is gorgeous. i need to start making little quilts that take way less time. maybe i'll start with making one for me :-)
I love the rich colors in these mini quilts, and I especially love how you've posed the onions with them. That's brilliant!
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