The Need to Create

L^2's entries called Leafy Ledge and Confetti StreamersEarlier this week, I went to San Francisco's City Hall to see Lighthouse for the Blind's Insights exhibit, where some of L^2's beautiful photography was on display. I was amazed and inspired by the work of these blind and visually impaired artists. L^2's photographs are up close shots that capture gorgeous detail and texture.

The work of 35 artists was displayed, some of whom were born blind, some with macular degeneration, many with retinitis pigmentosa (I had no idea it was that prevalent!). Some of the work was tactile, meaning visitors could actually touch the artwork--so refreshing since most exhibits are "do not touch"!
digital media by Alison Fortney, an artist with retinitis pigmentosa
While marvelling at these pieces of art, I thought about the strong desire to create that each of these artists must have, to overcome the difficulties and setbacks of learning their disciplines.
sculptural piece made with tubular knitting and sticks, made by Passle Helminski, blind since 15 years old, with Bilateral Cortical Dipolopia Palinopsia
I thought about what I would do if I lost my sight or the use of my hands (something I consider often when I'm having a bad time with carpal tunnel). I know that I would have to find a way to do something creatively--or I'd go absolutely bonkers! Even if I lost my sight, I think I'd need to sew or knit or crochet (like L^2 and Ro). But if I lost use of my hands (makes me think of Becky's broken wrists), I might have to get really creative about how to be creative!!

This dog blog has given me a wonderful creative outlet for the past year. But it has also sucked up some of the creativity I SHOULD be using for other things!! Namely, my handmade bags/accessories business and my poor other blog, Mimi's Handmade Happenings, which I have neglected for way too long.

I hope you'll give my crafty blog a looksee and maybe even sign up as a follower, if you're interested in that sort of thing. As you can see, it's pretty bleak and paltry over there. But I hope to make it a higher priority this year and offer some fun giveaways and free tutorials and such. If I don't, I'll have to blame it on Cabana!!

Beth and Alfie  – (January 17, 2010 at 4:41 PM)  

How inspiring! I'll have to check out your other blog...didn't know about it!

Kari in Alaska  – (January 17, 2010 at 4:56 PM)  

so I was thinking of taking up knitting as a creative outlet while I am laid up. Now that we have Big Carl I plan to make him lots of sweaters. HAHAHA

Katrin  – (January 17, 2010 at 5:33 PM)  

WOW that is very cool. I know for me my weekly painting class and the time I spend doing that is a wonderful outlet. That and my violin. I just took up painting classes a few years ago but I really love it. I will have to check out your other blog

Martha G  – (January 17, 2010 at 6:17 PM)  

I love your other blog and I'm now following it! I would love to be able to see your work in person one of these days. I'm fascinated by cork. Thanks also for posting the exhibition pictures.

Becky Andrews  – (January 17, 2010 at 6:21 PM)  

That is great that you were able to go to the Art Exhibit. How fun to see Laura's work. Were you able to see Suzy G's? Love your other blog and you are so creative -- wow!

Deborah  – (January 17, 2010 at 7:16 PM)  

You are right about this. My beautiful sister-in-law is having cancer surgery on Feb. 1st and she is going to loose her voice. I think she will get it back, but it will be different. Crazy sad. Your post makes me count my blessings and Penny does too!
I will check out your store! I love that stuff!

L^2  – (January 17, 2010 at 7:17 PM)  

I'm so glad you were able to go to the show! Thanks for posting about it. And I'll definitely be checking out your other blog.

Infrequent Flyers  – (January 17, 2010 at 9:13 PM)  

Thank you all for following my other blog! It's so nice to have followers! I didn't have followers activated before and didn't know if anyone ever even looked at my posts--not very motivating to keep updated!

Becky, yes, I did see Suzy's paintings! But I had forgotten that she had pieces in the exhibit at the time. Silly because I even read her bio there, where she mentions her guide dog, and that didn't jog my memory!

Kari in WeHo--you should definitely take up knitting while you're recuperating. But you need to make sweaters for all your dogs, not just Big Carl! You can't let your other dogs freeze in those chilly Los Angeles winters!

Lauren  – (January 17, 2010 at 11:55 PM)  

I just checked out your other blog- SO creative! I love the intricate designs and colors.

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