Let Your Inner Child Out to Play

Dear Artists,

Art for me is playtime. I feel like my best work is also when I am being my most child-like. And when kids are involved, I get to be even more playful.

Here is an example of how I get to revert back to my childhood while also being a practical adult:

I once had a baby shower to attend for a lovely lady at a day job. I was living in the mountains of Colorado and chose to make something given I had no funds to buy much. I decided to make something with found art. This may not be the true description, but as I rummaged through my random supplies that I collected ages ago (in a box labelled with a question mark), these were as good as found. Hmmmm, a piece of copper conducting material. That polymer clay I bought I never used. Some ribbon I had been collecting because I thought it was pretty once and a collection of beads I didn’t know what to do with...until now!

I came up with a mobile (not entirely baby friendly maybe but something to hang out of reach to help developing eyesight and maybe a little imagination). Since hot air balloons were a big deal in the mountains, I thought I would make one floating amongst the planets and stars. I am also aware of my comfort level. My friend is an equestrian and I didn’t feel confident making a horse. I selfishly chose something simpler and more fun for me to create.

Okay, so it didn't photograph well and it looked a bit homemade, I'll admit. But the important thing: it came from the heart, and it was fun to create!

My art prompt for you: make something with found art. Look through your scraps of craft materials. It doesn’t have to be given to anyone just a practice in imagination and ingenuity. Make your own journey amongst the stars.