Many people out there are blogging about their New Year’s resolutions and their “word” for 2016. (Christa from Christa Quilts picked the word Relax and Pat Sloan picked the word “Space”.) I decided that I wanted to focus on a word too. It isn’t going to be a goal or anything like that, more along the lines of taking ownership of that word.
My word for 2016 will be ARTIST.
For some reason I have never considered myself to be an “artist”, which is especially weird interesting given the fact that I actually have a Minor in Studio Art. There are many reasons for this, but mostly because I never felt like I could draw. I mean, my best picture of a person is a stick figure. I have always associated artist with someone who can draw. When I took up Zentangle 11 months ago, I realized that I can draw. In fact, I really love my Zentagle drawings. Learning to Zentangle has made me better at Free Motion Quilting.
I have decided that being able to draw something that looks like a real life replica is no longer how I will define the word “artist”. I cannot draw, but I create beautiful things every day, and that should be included in my definition. In addition to drawing, my love of photography has helped me learn how to put colors together in quilts and it has helped me translate the things I see in every day life into beautiful quilts, which I shall now call “works of art”.
So from here on out I will be thinking of myself not only as Melissa – mom, wife, daughter, sister, friend, quilter, designer, but also as Melissa – Artist.
Taking ownership of that word is a huge step for me.
What word are you taking ownership of this year?
Great word! It also took me awhile to think of myself as an artist, although that’s what I wanted to be when I was younger. I can’t draw either, but I can doodle quilting designs, LOL!!
Good for you Melissa! I remember waaaay back when you had a blog with Sunni. You’ve come a long way since then! You truly are an artist and I’m so happy that you’re going to own it!!
Great choice Melissa!!! I think of you as my daughter and friend who is an artist!!! My word this year is joy!!!
I’ve struggled, too, thinking of myself as “artist” or “designer,” because I can’t draw to save my life! But creating makes me happiest, so I know in my heart I’m an artist. My word for 2016 is “happiness,” because I plan to do more of what makes me happy or will lead to greater happiness for my family in the long run. Best of luck to you!
I think this is perfect for you! For a long time, I felt the same way, for the same reason – stick figures and cartoons (which mostly look like stick figures!) were my best efforts. 7 year olds sniggered at my drawings of cats! But I realized that quilts were art and I was good at that! I still don’t think “artist” but I do think artistic and creative are words that apply to me. I’m not owning a word this year. I did one year, and it was fruitful. Instead, I’m embracing the whole me, trying to be the best person I can be – kind and compassionate and thoughtful would all be words I want used to describe me when I’m not longer here. =)
I can’t draw for the of me, so why I can long arm quilt still amazes me. Artist is a great Word of the Year for 2016 and on. My word is Relentless. I borrowed that from someone (can’t remember who) because it’s what I need to whittle my body down a little bit this year, to hand over my Day Job to a new director, and to build my long arm quilting business. Such a strong word – I won’t give up!
It is obvious to me you are an artist. Now you just have to believe it.
When insew I normally use patterns made by others. My creativity is in the garden. It does not stay the same for long. I feel I am an artist in my garden.
Kathleen Mary
that is a great word for 2016. Love your zentangels too! Check out my http://www.elmstreetquilts.com blog about putting your word in fabric and entering my giveaway!
I remember a few years ago, I was visiting a church service with a friend. The pastor, in the course of his sermon, asked for anyone identifying themselves as an artist to stand. I hesitated a second and then stood. For the first time I claimed ‘artist’. It was life changing.
I’ve always thought of an artist as someone who is compelled to create. It doesn’t matter the medium they use, or the skill they possess, it’s simply the desire. It’s a perfect word for 2016.