Ask a group of kindergarten children if they are artists, and they will all raise their hands with enthusiasm, ask who can dance, they will stretch their hands high, ask who is a singer, same exuberant response.
As our kids get older they will respond less enthusiastically and give thought to clarifying the question — well I can draw, not so good at painting, I can dance for fun but not do tap, sing in the shower, not in public. And the older we get the more we put our answers into little boxes.
I have great admiration for those who can paint, take great photos, draw, sketch, work with clay, wood, steel. I am envious of their ability to bring the image in their mind to a beautiful creation. I have a fine appreciation for the talents of others and therefore hang those pieces on my walls, display on my shelves, or visit in galleries, museums and public places.
Summer seems to sizzle with the arts. Maybe because we get to take it outside and be more visible, more festivals, more arts events like Midsummer’s Eve, concerts in the parks, on the mountain top like Rare Earth or Komasket on the lakeshore. Caravan Theatre, the local dance productions, summer arts camps, more artists selling their wares at markets.
Many times my art collection has grown with a purchase of a piece of art, or a new CD I found on a summer vacation. And I have included a play in a park, a concert, and always visit art galleries in a new town.
I miss the days of the Friday night Vernon Farmers’ Market in the downtown area. The lads and I went regularly to buy fruits and veggies, watch the buskers, check out the shops that were open, have photos taken, admire the local arts and crafts, and eat in a downtown restaurant. A street market just seems to have more energy than one in a mall parking lot.
If we want to see more of local artists’ work we need to support them with our dollars. As we do our local farmers with buying their products. Shop local can include a great deal, food, furniture, services, arts.
My mother used to call art food for the soul. I have certain paintings that are very comforting to me and I can find myself staring at them easily and getting lost in what I see, and feel.
If we consider exercise a positive and that we should do it on a daily basis what about including arts activities? Reading a good book can enrich, expand our thoughts, enliven; keeping a journal, writing stories are great for our mind. Dancing can be joyful as well as healthy, taking photos can capture a moment, there forever to trigger a fond memory, a character, the power of nature. Acting can be freeing, being the character you may never allow yourself to be on a daily basis but can be brought to life on a stage. And participating in the production of a show can teach teamwork, innovation, and the chance to be part of something very special.
The way I see it why should the kids have all the fun? We can play as well.
There is satisfaction in the journey as well as completing the project. My garden is my canvass. Ever-changing, new creations all the time.
Take time this summer to feed your soul, express yourself, and always remember your paintings are there to please you, not match your couch.
Michele Blais writes a bi-weekly column on life and family for The Morning Star.
