Back to Reality

“Clingy” mixed-media: paper, wire, collage, muslin, acrylic, metal, aluminum, molding paste 4″ x 6″  ©2010 Leah Virsik

Sunday evening at 6 p.m. marked the end of the final weekend of Pro Arts East Bay Open Studios and I didn’t want it to end. I definitely faced some challenges during the busy times trying to juggle multiple situations and trying to do too much. But it was a good learning experience and hopefully I’ll handle it better next time. I had a lot of great visits from friends, family and neighbors. One woman saw my card in a café which was a nice treat.

I worked on creating more postcards for my upcoming Kensington Library show during the slower times. There’s something about being in the studio and working and having to be in there that is extremely satisfying. By the end of the day Sunday, inspired by a neighbors’ comment, I was using metal wire in my postcards like “Clingy” above. I’ll be working more with metal and jewelry in the future and hope to finish up some metal books. Ultimately, I’d love to get over my fear of fire.

I taught many people how to make mini books with my promotional postcard. Some people, like I mentioned in my last post, elaborated and added their own spin to my demonstration in inspiring ways. It is my intention to create a safe space that fosters this creativity and honors and accepts people where they are in their process.

As I continue to gain insight in this intention…I realize I need to start with me, create the space and let go. The magic will happen from there. Thanks Lanell for listening to me talk about this tonight and offering your insight!