Monday, January 12, 2009

Weaving threads.....

Had a relaxing time at the "Inspiring the Soul" conference here in Vancouver this weekend. Enjoyed meeting up with old friends and new, connecting over similar passions to share our art to encourage and offer hope to woman.



I am sensing a changing of seasons approaching again when I might need to hold loosely to my plans and be open to changes in focus, if only for a time. I find I keep thinking I need to get "back to" the days when I was pumping out artwork right and left, listing frequently etc. But that is not the door that keeps beckoning. It just seems there are shifts all over in my life that are calling me to slow down, intentionally invest in family and significant relationships, prioritize and consider new opportunities, even those that might be outside of my cherished art world! One aspect of my creativity that has been whispering my name again is in the form of writing. I am quietly moving in that direction although I am not sure where it will take me...but not going no longer feels an option. I am also opening up to the idea of working outside my studio for a couple days a week for someone else. The challenge for me has always been not to completely cease and give up one activity to begin another but to keep a gentle balance of both in my world at the same time. Like the weaving of a tapestry, aspects of my creativity need to be woven in alongside other new threads that might get introduced. It is part of who I am and what helps me breathe. Balance and giving voice to all aspects of who I am is a lifelong endeavor.

So even though I will continue to create and offer work for sale, I am more than ever wanting to create and give. I guess I'd rather see something I have finished be in the hands of someone I know it would encourage then in my inventory. Thats how this all began...through giving away creative hope to those who were struggling. I just want more of that in my life again. There is, however, a constant tension between the reality of needing to earn a living through my creative gifts and the desire to give away and bless with the creative gifts. So I must keep weaving with both threads while leaving room for new ones to be introduced...and release the need to know ahead of time what the final tapestry of my life will look like. Holding too tightly to anything, if it needs to be released and transformed, is not healthy in the long run. I guess that is what trust is for.

So today don't fear if you must make adjustments. They might be temporary. They might even bring you blessings and open doors you hadn't even considered. Trust releasing the plan you might have been clutching too tightly. I encourage you though, amidst the letting go, to keep weaving the threads of your passions and dreams amidst the other threads that may unexpectantly enter your life. Even if their creative colors arn't as domininant for a season, your life's tapestry won't be complete in it's richness and depth without them.


"Set free the soul...Release your inner voice....Surrender to the journey...Embrace your story"

New Altered Art BLock which can be found in my Etsy store.

Be sure to peek back in late tonight and I will announce the winner of the art blessing giveaway!

10 comments:

MaygreenFairies said...

Hey Lani, I've always adored your work and now I've found you on Creative Souls and your blog!! I will be following your blog and adding a link to your site from mine. Take Care, Mandy x

Candace said...

What a lovely post, filled with change and challenge and hope and awareness. Thank you for simply being...
Your Friend in Athens.

Kim Palmer said...

How lovely is this little treasure. Great job, I love this one! Lovely words too by the way on the blog post, just run with it all, it will make you happier in the long run and really thats what it's all about.

Anonymous said...

You are such a creative soul Lani, you express yourself so well.You do have a gift to write and create art work.
Best wishes for new begining, you will soar at whatever you do.
You have such a kind heart.
Hugs, Laura.

Anonymous said...

BEAUTIFUL ARTWORK, Lani !!
I WANTED TO MENTION THAT TOO. SMILES, Laura.

Lisa said...

This box is beautiful. Your writing is beautiful. I can't imagine creativity not being a part of everything you touch. I love the way life changes directions sometimes. It can be scary but faith and trust seem to build stronger everytime we look back and realize it was all for the best. Thank you again for the amazing giveaway. I had vowed not to buy anything new but I sure needed a shot of fresh materials plus I am planning workshops for kids later in the spring and I know these will be put to good use.

rusted wings said...

whatever you do, you give from the heart and touch more than you know! may God give you more faith as you walk through this misty valley, until the way gets clearer, with understanding. you do have gift for writing...and maybe a lovely gift book with you lovely art and inspired thoughts would be the way to keep both gifts woven together!?
Blessings,
Abigail

cookievf said...

Beautifully written from a loving heart! I've been a mentor to at-risk children for 13 years and, as a survivor myself, I have always found that the words you choose to accompany your art are powerful and touch a VERY special, healing place. If you ever decide to publish a book of of them, I would buy it and share it with these broken children in a heartbeat! Blessings to you along your journey!

much love always, vicki xo

Stephani Gorman said...

Hi Lani, I just stopped by to say "Hello". What a beautiful blog and I am looking forward to being an "Art Angel" friend. Hugs, Stephani

Renee said...

Lani, thank you for your wise words. xoxo

Renee