Be Creative

     During Saint Patrick’s Day weekend Lindsay - the owner of The Art Cellar asked for artist to do painting demos.  I agreed despite the threat of bad weather.  Out on the patio one of my collage paintings was set up.  I also showed how to create a collage from start to finish.  
      Some of the adults complimented the painting but really showed no interest in the demo.  The kids on the other hand were fascinated!  It was even more excited when they were allowed to stamp or paint on the canvas.  Especially the kids who’s parents said you are gonna mess the painting up.  
     There is something that happens when a child is allowed to use your “real” art supplies or tools.  I believe it builds their confidence.  At one point there were lots of kids surrounding me asking to paint.  The old Sergeant in me quickly established order.  A line was formed and each child was allowed to add some paint to a journal page. It was awesome to watch a joint painting effort.  
     I often use my hand carved stamps on my collages.  One little girl asked if she could try - of course I said yes.  Her Mom said oh honey you will mess it up.  I said there is no such thing it’s a painting!  That same little girl was so excited to stamp on the painting stamps were everywhere - with black permanent ink. This collage ended up with dark black ink up in the sky.  The ink also mixed with the wet paint and spray and the once bright painting became dark.  
     At first glance the painting did appear ruined. After many coats of gesso and paint the dark stamps in the sky disappeared.      
Even if the painting was ruined would it really have mattered?  Demos are used to hopefully attract potential clients.  I realized if all I did was spark a dream of becoming an artist in kids the demo was a success.  I now say yes when asked to demo.  
     Please join me this weekend during Artistphere in downtown Greenville.  I will be doing a mixed media demo from 10-11 am on Friday in the Artisphere demo area.  I will also be joining the artist demo on Noma square Saturday from 12-4.  It will be a joint effort with The Art Cellar, The Artist Guild and Open Studios gallery.  If it rains we will be inside the hotel and set up under tents on Noma Square. Time to Be Creative again.