Magpie Eating Cake

Here is a whimsical painting by Rubens Peale (1784 - 1865) called "Magpie Eating Cake." Aside from the painting's title being a chillingly close description of me and my activities this month, I adore it for the inspiration its creator provides. Rubens Peale was the fourth son of artist Charles Willson Peale (1741 - 1827) and turned to painting only later in life. Because of poor eyesight, he never obtained the artistic training received by his siblings. By the way, I love how the father named his sons: Rembrandt, Raphaelle, Titian...no pressure, there, guys. Rubens Peale pursued the sciences and spent much of his life as a museum administrator and owner. A financial panic in 1837 forced Peale to sell his collections to P.T. Barnum and retreat, financially destitute, to a farm owned by his wife's family. He managed the farm and used his training as a natural scientist to become the local taxidermist. Fourteen years later, his daughter, Mary Jane Peale, returned home after studying painting with her uncle Rembrandt. At age 71, and under his daughter's tutelage, Rubens Peale began to pursue painting in earnest, recording his progress in daily diary entries. The last 10 years of Peale's life were spent in a joyful pursuit of learning and creativity.

Do you find the Peale's story inspiring? I am immediately struck by his humility and perseverance. Despite physical infirmity, family obligation, even financial ruin, Peale continued to find his way. The spark of creative spirit ignited his days to the very end. Rubens Peale had the humility to accept instruction from his daughter, even using his new skills to copy some of his brothers paintings as gifts for his children. There doesn't seem to be much ego or what I like to call the "Fragile Genius" about Peale. I need stories like this: stories that feed the better part of the artistic nature. Living an authentically creative life means being a good steward of the gifts you possess. Being a good steward  requires generosity, wisdom, and faith. Faith that your offering, flawed or imperfect as it may be, is valuable and enough.

R.I.P. Christopher Hitchens

Writer Christopher Hitchens

The world feels a little lonelier today with news of Christopher Hitchens death from complications of esophageal cancer at the age of 62. His quick wit, incredible intellect and strong convictions caused everyone in his path to up their game. Rigorously questioning the intellectual integrity of various beliefs and mindsets, he forced us to examine our assumptions, influences and life philosophies. In Christendom, we are much better thinkers because of what he brought to the public forum. He left behind a wife, three children, and many, many friends and colleagues. I'm sure those who knew him personally are feeling the void this huge personality has left behind. Hitch, I pray that at the end your convictions were overwhelmed by an encounter with Love & Light Himself.

Beautiful Branches - What's Your Secret Impulse?

Branches bring their organic elegance to the table

 There are beautiful branches suspended from my dining room ceiling and I love them. Their wild organic shape is bringing contrast, excitement and exuberance into the room. Just some cuttings from the yard, wire, a few white cup hooks in the ceiling, and I have a vista that interests and pleases me every time it catches my eye! I've wanted to do this for a couple of years but hesitated; putting holes in the ceiling gave me pause. Finally, day after day of grey weather outside our windows drove me to throw caution to the wind. I'm so glad I did! Once again, the riskier choice had the biggest payoff. At this festive time of year, the air is full of abundance, promise, and permission to do the unexpected. If there's something you wouldn't normally have the guts to try, this is the time to do it. Wear that color, go to that special event, rearrange your furniture, surprise yourself! Take a minute to put your finger on what charms and delights you. NEVER immediately dismiss any idea. Not without giving it some consideration. Pursue the tiny flash of a thought. You can change it back when the next impulse strikes, right? Follow the unique and unusual. See where they take you. Your home, your life will be invigorated and much richer for the journey.

.

Tiny branches and a SJD bird bonbonniere made their way onto an adjoining wall

Creative Exercise "I Need"....

As winter approaches, what do you need? The hurry scurry, hustle bustle plans and preparations in our consumer culture are impossible to ignore this time of year. How are you preparing for the material demands of a harsh season? What's your anxiety level as you throw your hat in the ring for another "magical holiday" experience for one and all? What do you need?

Isn't our default setting to acquire more than enough so we aren't caught short - only to be left with extra clutter that doesn't really work for anybody? Over acquisition is MY default setting. And it's getting on my last nerve. Here are a few questions I am asking myself today in order to get to the heart of things. Open your journal, get some colored pencils and markers. Answer these questions while writing fancy.Maybe they will help you too. Oh, while you write, click on the song below. I am loving this song "I Need" by Maverick Sabre. He sounds like Amy Winehouse's little brother - and Amy's recent accidental passing is reminding me that life is precious. All the more important to be intentional about what we really need. 

 
"I need sunshine, I need angels, I need something good..."

Holiday & Gifts:

What is important to me during the holidays? What is important to my family?

Do we spend time and money on things because of "shoulds?"

Am I willing to disappoint the expectations of others and try something new if need be?

A gift is a tangible symbol of emotion, esteem, or respect for another. That's why it seems SO IMPORTANT to get it right. It isn't just the thing. It's what we're saying with the thing. Can I say what I need to without the thing? Or convey the love with a more modest, meaningful token that feels more peaceful/less excessive?

Am I open to following my heart and giving to some one completely unexpected - just because?

Do I have the discipline to wait and not accumulate?

House & Home:

How many partially used bottles of cleaning and beauty products do I see? What was I trying to achieve by purchasing each item?

Do I have a crowded pantry but no inspiration for making dinner?

What's in my dream pantry?

What has to go in order to make room for what I find inspiring and delicious?

What was the thinking behind purchasing the items now headed for the local community food pantry?

How can I be more mindful when shopping?

Thank You, Veterans

In Flanders Fields   by John McCrae In Flanders fields the poppies grow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place, and in the sky, The larks, still bravely singing, fly, Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the dead; short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe! To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high! If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

The Factory - A Real Life Fairy Tale

This is a story about a place. A place that is old and new at the same time. It is an important story and, like all the best stories, it is true. True stories are especially important to remember so that is why I am telling it now.

Uniroyal Plant 1964

Once upon a time there was a big factory in Eau Claire. The factory made lots of wonderful things for many, many years.These things were made by the people of Eau Claire, with great skill and with much pride. This factory meant a lot to the people in Eau Claire. It gave them jobs. It gave them friends they had for their whole lives. At the factory, they made important things for people all over the world. 

Uniroyal 1949

One time, the factory made things that helped our country win a very serious war. This work was so important that when the men of Eau Claire had to fight in the war, women came to help so the factory could still do its important work. After the war, some women liked making things so much, they stayed at the factory!

Many years passed. Times changed.The factory had to change too even though it was hard. But, do you know what? Many things about the factory didn’t change! It was still a strong, solid place to make things, and to think up thoughts. The factory became Banbury. It welcomed artists and businesses and all sorts of people who had new ideas & dreams to follow. And, there were still women who came to the factory to do their work! 

One summer day, three women dreamed of a place they could sell the things that THEY made, with much skill and great pride. They loved making new things. They loved using old things to make new things. They thought that old things were special and had soul. They hoped that when people saw these things that were special and handmade, they would like them and think their work was important too. They knew the perfect place to come and show the people their work: the old factory, Banbury! So, that is how there came to be a monthly market at Banbury. The three women saw more and more people who cared about soulful things, handmade things come to The Market. They invited everyone to come! They wanted to connect more and more and more people in Eau Claire to more and more and more people who made their own things. Guess what? It's starting to happen! Their dream is coming true! And that is a story of the place that is old and new at the same time, and how it stays strong and holds dreams.

Discipline, Productivity and the Creative Life or "Thanks, Adderall!"

New York-based artist Stan Munro recreated the Sagrada Familia Church of Barcelona using 35,000 toothpicks. Good for him. Seriously. Good for you, Stan!

In ones creative life, much work is done solely in the realm of mind and spirit. Maybe that's why it is so difficult to put a monetary value on "design" or assign billable hours to a project. For me, it's all one big swirling thing; each project and idea influencing the other. (Recent swirl: kindness, book, struggle, parties, Rocky Mountains, parents' 50th, genocide, Africa, entitlement, housecleaning, bracelet, fashion, garden, God) Actual concrete expressions of thoughts and ideas seem to manifest themselves unpredictably and with no apparent rhyme or reason. Aha! The key word there being "APPARENT." Are there concrete actions that, when put into regular practice, enhance productivity? Nurture inspiration?

These are the sorts of questions I have been thinking about in regard to the role of discipline and creativity. My answers? Nothing to write home about. They have revealed a lazy, lackadaisical approach to creative work with the rationalization that waiting until inspiration strikes is the super artistic geniusy way to be....planning out work time like some hack churning out pages to meet a quota is not going to produce the special, special work of which I am capable. Are you gagging yet?

At the end of this post are some questions that came to mind as I wrestled with this topic. Of course I would love to hear anything and everything you have to say - leave a comment or tweet me @chezsusanj.  Before going on to the questions, skim the following paragraph. It might help you in getting to the heart of any matter you face.

Many years ago when I was in therapy, I once asked my counselor if I had to be completely honest about something horrible it was time to be real about in group that week. She told me I did indeed have to be truthful but I could tell the group, "I prefer not to have feedback." That was a great thing to tell me. I could be truthful but set a boundary to keep me safe from the judgment and response of others. So, my creative compadres, answer away. Ask for feedback or set whatever boundaries you need to feel safe. Just be honest as you look at the questions before you.  xo Susan

Do you have ideas you'd like to execute but for which you lack the technical ability?

How would you remedy this? A class? Practice? Input from others?

What keeps you from seeking this remedy?


What role does perfectionism play in your day?

Do you give creative expression respect? Do you believe it deserves your time and attention?

What "shoulds" or "shouldn'ts" do you assign to your creative life? (i.e. I should get domestic chores done first, I shouldn't spend money on this, etc.)


What external forces influence your creative life?

Is a new way to be creative revealing itself? How will you pursue it?

On a scale of 8 to 10, 8 being "awesome" and 10 being "super amazingly wicked awesome, " how awesome are you?

Simple Seasonal Style Updates

SJD "Four Seasons Scarf" Light but lush with texture and layers.

In July, I began thinking about designing some new accessories and jewelry for Fall. What I make is guided right away by my personal style and design philosophy. For me, style principles are the same whether for an outfit or a room: make the main pieces neutral but bring in lots of personal style with accessories. This way, one is less likely to tire of the items that are expensive and difficult to replace while still satisfying the eye's desire for what's fresh and new. To be more specific...

Embracing Current Trends of Stripes & Lace

For a room, the main pieces to keep "neutral" would be costly items like a sofa, area rug, draperies, woodwork. Room accessories that are easy to switch out with your mood or a favorite trend: pillows, throws, lamps, art, picture frames, a fun chair. 
For an outfit, the investment pieces would be a cashmere sweater, winter coat, boots, little black dress, great jeans. The accessories, of course, would be scarves, jewelry, shoes, hats, belts, hosiery, or even a fun watch or bag.

I think it's important to get at least one little something at the beginning of each season that you really love. It doesn't have to be spendy, but it should be something of the moment and maybe even a little risky! Just that one splash of color or edgy bracelet or nail polish color straight from the runway makes everything feel fresh and updated. Take your cues from your environment. Glance through Elle or More. Look at your style heroes. See what you're drawn to and keep your eyes open for the translation that works for you. You'll know it when you see it! 

New at The Market in October
"Tennis Bracelets for the New Millennium"  
Susan Jacoby Designs
My obsession with contrast continues! I found broken rhinestone/bead bracelets in my stash and lashed them together with leather and linen cord.The result looks sort of post apocalyptic/Mad Max. I am loving this armful of bracelets. I'm wearing them constantly!

 

Body or Soul? Can We Value Both?

Recently, a local philanthropic organization made a very generous gift of a gorgeous illuminated Bible text to our community. This art will be displayed in turn at two (competing) area hospitals. This idea itself, the idea of sharing the sacred text, is inspired and has already brought out a sense of unity between the two facilities. Of course, there are some murmurings. The most concise opposition to be found in a well written letter to our local paper. You can read it here. I wrote a response to him and it follows below. I sent it in to the newspaper but who knows if it will be printed. With me in possession of the password to this blog, I know it will be published! I'd be interested to know your thoughts so feel free to comment away. 

I strenuously disagree with the comments made by Mr. Maierhofer regarding how monies spent on art should be going to the "poor." I'm going to assume that at the time of writing his letter, he was unaware that the bible was ostensibly a gift from private individuals whom already donate sacrificially to The Free Clinic and other local philanthropic causes. I hope this fact alone softens his negative attitude. Secondly, I respectfully ask that the writer would recall an experience in his own life where he was inspired by art. Like it or not, man is a spiritual being with a soul that seeks care and feeding. That's why humans are attracted to music, learning, nature, even Netflix. Should all these "extras" be banished from our lives until every physical need of our fellow man is met? Absolutely not! Art ennobles the soul. Great art causes the soul to look beyond its own chaotic, selfish concerns to focus instead on timeless truths, beauty, the human condition. Art reveals truth, and art almost always requires a response. Without art, the inspiration to give and contribute to causes greater than ourselves would disappear. Then we would experience true poverty.

 

Learn more about the St. John's Heritage Bible here.

Yikes! Next Market: October 13, 14, 15

Scout and Skander are ready....are you?

Thursday October 13th  12 - 8pm

Friday October 14th  11am - 7pm

Saturday, October 15th  10am - 4pm

A brisk snap in the air signals autumn's arrival. We're already getting ready for the next market, "Harvest & Halloween!" Sneak peek photos coming soon.

In the meantime, here's a creative exercise to hone those mad cat drawing skillz. This graphic looks like a worksheet a substitute teacher might mimeograph and give to the class at the end of an cool, sunny October afternoon. 

After getting the call that Mrs. Spahr's 4th grade class needed some one just for the day, the 68 year old sub dug around in her files looking for something fun; a treat for the children. She knew she wasn't a favorite. Her teaching style skewed more authoritarian than Magic School Bus. And yet. It seemed important to her that she not arrive completely empty handed. She wanted to bring something of herself - something the children might enjoy.Something that left them with the impression that she wasn't all schedule and discipline.Ahh...here it is. Under "A" for Animal. She initially searched the "H" file. For "Holiday". Sub file "Hallowe'en." She would hand it out 15 minutes before dismissal and the children would run home through papery leaf filled gutters, eager to show their mothers a perfectly drawn cat. It would be a good day.

What Do You Do With Failure?

Redemption piece in process

Yesterday I failed. My inability to understand what a client wanted trumped the several earnest attempts I made to meet the objectives and goals described. Nine hours in, I made the call to quit. I was simply unable to see what I was doing wrong. I began to realize that I'd never understand his vision and what I was supposed to do. I admitted defeat.  I admitted that the task exceeded my skill set. It was embarrassing for me, irritating and disappointing to him. And he let me know that. I apologized.

SO. Today is a new day, n'est ce pas? Mais, non. I awoke with a killer emotional hangover - the incident consuming my thoughts, boring a hole in my stomach. I prayed. I talked with people who love me. I did all of the stuff that I know usually works when trying to get my mind off something that makes me feel sad, mad, bad, and inadequate. Then I reflected on something that I truly believe. Art heals. Creativity helps.

I began a "Redemption" painting. I have done this in the past to great effect. It helped. As I wrote my thoughts on canvas, I began to get some objectivity and by the last few inches of space, I had the lesson. AT LEAST I FAILED TRYING. I took a risk. I didn't mean to misrepresent myself or deceive anyone. I thought I could do it, but I couldn't. At least I tried. That's the kind of person I want to be. I can't wait for perfection. I work with what I have and who I am now. I'm going to fail. To disappoint.

Now I have a big canvas with black and red writing on it. Time to paint. I can be free with a Redemption piece because anything I do is going to make it more beautiful than what I have on it now! Isn't that great? Washing beautiful color over the stark text is meditative and soothing. Tension ebbs. Spirits rise. Even if the finished piece is not wall worthy, the process of covering a stark failure with gorgeous sweeps of color is worth everything.

What do you do when you fail? What do you do with disappointment? Once the initial finger pointing and blame game is over and you leave the table with your "winnings", your part of what went wrong, what do you do with it? How do you let go? How do you move on? It's easier to say, "Be gentle with yourself" or "At least I tried" than it is to actually take hold and believe those statements.

Try a redemption piece. Put it all on paper or canvas. Then cover it with images and colors that please you, that you find beautiful. Use collage, paint, paper, pencils, crayon or all of the above. Don't focus on the result. Your transformation comes during the process.

August Dates and Hours

Using Themes to Spark Your Creative Engine

 A theme is an idea that acts as a giant bouncy springboard to creativity! Here's a glimpse into the process of how having the discipline of a theme triggers creativity. Try it!

1.Pick your theme, word, idea. Let's pick "reflection." Define it.

Reflection (the noun): the image of something in a mirror or on any reflective surface

Example: In Greek mythology, Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water.

Reflection (the verb) : to think carefully, especially about possibilities and opinions

Example: She reflected that this was probably the last time she would see him.

 2.Pick the creative medium of your choice. Fr'instance: pencil and paper for writing or for drawing, wire and beads for jewelry, paint, collage materials, the musical scale and your piano or guitar, some dance steps, your camera, cooking ingredients, fabric, clay.....

3. Ponder: What about the word "reflection" jumps out at you? (Justine is being inspired by the shiny light of mirrors - can't wait to see her take on this idea) Anyway. How can you communicate that idea and feeling through your chosen medium? Give it a try. 

4. Important: Don't toss your "mistakes." SERIOUSLY. Your first attempts often contain the freshest, strongest reaction to the theme. Also, early work is honorable and brave; not to be minimized or hidden away like an unattractive photo you'd like to forget. No one would be anywhere without their first try. This is especially important for you writers out there. "Word processing" makes deleting and backspacing too easy. If you usually write on your laptop, write in a journal for the rest of the summer. Outside even. With the physical tools used by writers since time immemorial. Even a Hemingway-esque Underwood typewriter leaves sheaves and sheaves of proof that words were typed. Some embarrassingly melodramatic, some restrained and sublime. Keep it all.

Summer Concert Series Thursday, July 28th LAARKS 6:30pm Phoenix Park

Sounds Like Summer Concert Series: Laarks + Do It Yourself Daisy + Wisconsin Built

Join your family, friends, and neighbors on the grass and giant rocks at the Phoenix Park labyrinth for a concert with the Chippewa River and evening sunset as the backdrop. Bring a blanket, some snacks or beverages, and enjoy the local scene and sounds. Wisconsin Built plays a pre-show set at 6pm.

FREE

all ages

volumeone.org

Full Disclosure: The Laarks frontman, composer, keyboards player & singer extraordinaire, Ian Jacoby is quite a favorite here at The Market. Although we'd still listen to An Exaltation of LAARKS constantly even if Ian wasn't Susan's son. Their eagerly anticipated second CD will be released Spring of 2012!

Buy "An Exaltation of Laarks" on Amazon here  or on iTunes here!

May You Never - John Martyn

Every once in awhile, the creative temperament skews nearer to fragile genius than it does to inspired, practical innovator. We have times of discouragement. We doubt the value of our work. We may be misunderstood. We experience setbacks due to circumstances beyond our control. 

One of my favorite musicians is John Martyn.  Eric Clapton once said (John is) "so far ahead of everything, it's almost inconceivable." In this video he is, to me, achieving musical perfection. I love his joyful, "Take it to church!" a generous gesture to his band mates that he wants them to shine and play on. Notice the way Kathy Mattea looks at John during the song - eyes shining with admiration and love. At the very end, her incredulity at what they just experienced is so joyful. I hope John noticed. I hope he knew how incredible everyone thought he was before he died.

I hope you know how incredible YOU are. While you are doing what you were put on this earth to do, I can guarantee you that some one is being encouraged and amazed by you, their eyes shining with admiration and love. That's just how it is when we live authentically and generously.

Message from The Market: Do You Need Pruning?

"Old Blue" in all her pruned, fruitful glory

If you grew up in the '70s, you probably heard the Byrds cover of "Turn, Turn, Turn." The song was written by Pete Seeger, lyrics from the Book of Ecclesiastes. It seemed every wedding I went to as a child had this song sung during the ceremony. I was unimpressed. A time for planting, laughing, weeping, nothing at all about a wedding. Except maybe the "time for embracing" part. Boring. How about something creative, even surprising? "You Sexy Thing," for example. " I believe in Malcolm! Way from, you sexy thing, you sexy thing, you!" Those are the lyrics, right? You do believe in Malcolm, don't you?

Well, the "to every thing there is a season" concept that I took to be a yawn-fest as a child, has become a cornerstone of my adult life and decision making. Things change. We change. What worked before may not work quite as well now. Relationships we thought we'd die without, are just not as central any longer. It's tempting to feel guilty and think, "What am I doing wrong? Why am I feeling restless and unsatisfied?" You probably aren't doing anything wrong. You might just need a pruning. 

Pruning is essential for a full, healthy plant and a full healthy life. Like Pete Seeger, I borrow heavily from God with this analogy, but I believe there is wisdom to be found in the pruning concept no matter what your beliefs or spiritual inclinations. So, instead of the vine and branches, there is a blueberry bush in this story. I'll try to be brief.

Once upon a time there was a blueberry bush at my childhood home....blah, blah, blah...parents moving, blah,blah,blah..... "over my dead body" blah, blah, blah ....rope around bush attached to Suburban, blah, blah, blah....we have a "new" blueberry bush! With sentimental value! Emphasis on the 'mental'!

With so much invested in this dang bush's existence, I am loathe to cut ANYTHING off at ANY TIME. I have nurtured this baby. Miraculously, it bore many blueberries almost immediately. But, as the years went on,  I noticed the blueberries getting tinier and tinier. They looked like little American Girl Doll berries. I kidded myself, "Wow, look at all the concentrated flavor, ( imagining the shrinking process just like  the freeze drying process?) you don't find these at any old grocery store!" The truth was, the berries weren't extra delicious. They were, however, so painstaking to harvest that, for a year or two, Old Blue was little more than a landscape plant. Deep down, I knew what the bush needed, but I pushed those thoughts away. I avoided pruning by upping the fertilizing and watering. I think Kubler-Ross would call this "SUBCONSCIOUSDENIALBARGAINING."

You know where this is going. Berry research was done. Opinions were sought. Pruning did occur. And the bush bore-eth a multitude of large, delicious fruit and lo, it was good.

In this story, we want to emulate Old Blue, not the deluded, enabling gardener. Actually, let's be Blue with a mindful, caring gardener who has Blue's best interests at heart. Here are some thoughts and questions to assist you in determining if pruning is needed and which branches, once removed, set you free to move forward and be more of who you are truly meant to be.

List any obligations, activities or commitments you dread or find dissatisfying. Have you always felt this way?

If you answer "yes" but the obligation is a normal part of being a grown up (like laundry, feeding your children or paying bills) star those items as "non-negotiables." Give yourself a pat on the back for being a responsible citizen and good neighbor. Smile at yourself in the mirror and say, " Wow, these things are a drag but it's good to do the right thing."

If you answer "yes", and the thing isn't essential, then It could be you have entered into this obligation for the wrong reason(s). The joy of approval and the novelty of new activity quickly feels wrong if we said "yes" for the wrong reasons.Here are some reasons we say "yes" to things that aren't in our best interests:

-wanting to please the person asking/inviting      

-wanting to escape the "non-negotiables"

-fear we may never get another opportunity that is better suited to us

-pride because we are flattered and want the prestige afforded by our role

-Do any of these ring true? What other forces may have influenced your "yes"?

Identifying these things and being humble enough to admit we may have been mistaken is HUGE and wonderful. Well done! Begin your exit strategy....(cue sound of pruners being sharpened).

If no, I haven't always been dissatisfied with this thing, what changed? Examples: my goals/priorities have changed, I have new interests that keep pulling me away, I gave myself a pass to not do this, but now I want to step it up, etc.

 

If you're not sure what changed, ask yourself, when did it change? Examples: After a loss or life change? As a loss or life change was about to occur? After an argument or misunderstanding? Because of health issues?

Is it my attitude/way of thinking that needs changing or is the needed change external? 

If your answer is "I'm the one who has changed, and not for the better" what needs to happen in order for you to be happy again? Examples:  I'd like to forgive and forget, agree to disagree, lower my expectations of myself and others, stop the negative self talk,etc.

If the change needed is external, either begin mapping out an exit strategy or TAKE A RISK and begin this new change! Try to be direct, honest and gentle with yourself. Respect any others involved by giving them room to adjust, permission to have their own feelings about your decisions.

Throughout the pruning process, take a step or two back to see the big picture and how these changes will fit with the overall plan and purpose of your life. Taking time to consider what needs to be done at this particular time will enable you to avoid the impulsive, rash actions of one so uncomfortable with their dread and restlessness that any change is seen as relief. "Not so!" says the voice of Experience! Effective pruning is deliberate, gentle, and timely. It is done for the benefit of the whole organism, freeing it to grow wild, wonderful, and beyond anyone's expectations.

Inside The Market

"Still Life with Market Wares" Justine's incredible bags made from vintage grain sacks and canvas; furniture, accessories, jewelry, oil paintings, collage, pottery, &  Diet Coke can.

We're working on some really special things for August, and  SUPER amazing things for our Grand Opening in September! One studio at Banbury that will be open on Market days is Zodiac Productions. It was great to meet talented local glass artist D.J. Stewart.  I hope to convince the guys to do some glass blowing demonstrations for the "Back to Cool" market September 8-10. Our neighbors from The Cello Connection will delight visitors with beautiful cello music (more details to follow) and we plan on having lots of fun and interesting things for the whole family as The Market helps you get "Back to COOL!"

Shady Lady in Vintage Hearts T & apron

Volume One Love

Volume One's Current Issue

Volume One is Eau Claire's wonderfully readable and informative arts and entertainment magazine. It has become an indispensable resource for thousands of Chippewa Valley residents because of the helpful info in the events calendar. It compiles almost every happening in the region and organizes it into calendar form.This means, if you have a copy of Volume One handy, or even if you have their website bookmarked, you can pick a date, turn to that day's page and see what's happening 'round these here parts. From art exhibits to concerts to community events to important civic meetings, it's all there. But, Volume One also has great articles, regular columnists and impressive local visual art on the cover of every single issue. Not to get all anthropomorphize-y or anything, but I think of Volume One as part hip little brother (with an 80G iPod full of amazing music), part Eau Claire cheerleader, and part Paris Review. Oh, and there's definitely a crunchy candy shell that asks earnest questions of how we can make life here better. I love that.

Last Saturday at The Market, an intrepid Volume One reporter braved the heat and checked us out. Look for the article in the next issue, coming out this week - it's FREE at area grocery stores or many local businesses like Acoustic, Harmony Cafe and Erberts & Gerbert's. Our community is blessed to have this wonderful resource. Thanks, Volume One! xoxo

Message from The Market: Getting Comfortable With Risk

Attempting to do something new is a challenge, it's difficult. Why? There is one thing required before one even picks up a paintbrush, signs up for a class, or buys a tennis racquet. One must be vulnerable enough to take a risk. What sort of risk, you ask? 

The biggest risk we take is with our reputation, how we appear to the world.  Beginning something new requires a willingness to look flawed, imperfect, even foolish. Humans learn a subject or skill by attempting it, making mistakes, asking for help, accepting correction, and trying again. And again. Some of us are more concerned than others about what the fans in the stands think. Although all of us probably want our family and friends to think well of us, to believe in us and what we're doing. Having that sort of "soft place to fall" is wonderful and can make it easier to try something new. Guess what? We might not get that support or admiration when we begin a new thing. Not right away, and maybe not ever. 

PLEASE, do it anyway. Just for the sake of doing the thing. No one has to see the result. You are the one who gets to decide if something is worthwhile or not. You may want to share with others, or you may not. That's up to you too. Sharing the thing is frequently a good idea because it not only makes you feel brave and alive, it's a good testimony to those watching. Your attempt may give those fans in the stands food for thought or even permission to proceed with their dream. There are wonderful, redemptive consequences that happen when we listen to the still small voice - blessings we could never anticipate when we began.

I recommend the film "The Secret of the Grain" as an excellent example of risk, a dream, family and community.You can watch it instantly on Netflix. It won't be included in the "Chicken Soup for the Entrepreneur's Soul" film collection, but it is incredibly real, moving and inspiring. WARNING FOR THOSE WHO ARE CAREFUL WITH THEIR MOVIE VIEWING ***The first few minutes of the movie with a little inappropriate extra-marital behavior is not characteristic of the movie's content. 

A Big First Day Thank YOU... and A Favor to Ask

Hi There, Eau Claire! How great it was to see you at the very first day of The Market! Justine and Lisa worked tirelessly to make the sale beautiful, easy to find, and just plain fun to visit! Susan has a couple pre-existing commitments this weekend so she will probably not be on site at Banbury much this month but hopes to catch some of you as she pops in and out.

A big part of The Market brand is great customer service. We can't do much about the lack of A/C in our funky industrial loft space (other than keep the fans going) nor can we convince you that the elevator is a whisper quiet wood paneled marvel when it is OBVIOUSLY A FREIGHT ELEVATOR. We can, however, ask for your feedback. The Market wants to hear what you have to say about your experiences with us. What do you like? What could be improved? What are you interested in seeing us do in the future? We truly would love to hear what's on your mind. Never hesitate to leave comments on this blog or email us at info@themarketeauclaire.com  Thank you and see you tomorrow!

At The Market

At The Market

Message from The Market: The Role of Your Surroundings in the Creative Proccess

Inspiration is the SPARK that ignites your creative engine. How does one get inspired?Cue  patchouli scented middle aged woman in flowing garments, armfuls of bangles with lilting voice,"Why darling! The world is so magical! Inspiration is EVERYWHERE, just open your eyes!" Gak. Get her outta here. The fact is, Heaven, or Nevaeh, or whatever you've decided your spirit name is (I'm pretty sure your real name is Barbara) inspiration may be everywhere, but there are some very practical thoughts we can think and questions we can ask ourselves in order to find the spark that ignites our creative engine. I don't know of any other way to explain how environment inspires me, other than to take you through, quite specifically, my most recent creative endeavor. Here's how it went....

I love all the red, white and blue around in the summer - starting with Memorial Day. It's almost 4th of July. That's my Grandpa Roy's birthday. I miss him. I miss my Grandma Margaret, too. She had a lot of style. She liked to shop. Hey, she bought me that blue and white chinese box at Prange's one time. I'm going to get it out and find some red in this messy house so I can enjoy my own little "red, white, & blue" theme. 

I am obsessed with this whole Chinese porcelain vibe I got going here. Look how the "X" pattern on the box echoes the lattice print on my chair cushion.This would be a cute outfit. Am I crazy?? I cannot justify purchasing clothes or even fabric right now. I could make jewelry. I wish I could paint and fire porcelain beads. Blue and white beads would look clean and fresh but classic. I don't see any old chinese porcelain beads on eBay. Dang. Wait a sec! I have WOODEN BEADS in my stash.  I have paint.....Hmmmmm.

 

I like painting beads. It's interesting how close I can get the paint mixture to a true cobalt blue. Success! Mixing paint is fun. Painting tiny beads is quite a challenge - even with my soon to be patented soda straw bead holder I've contrived. These beads don't resemble the picture in my head but I think they are sort of charming. I need practice painting with this ridiculously teensy brush. I will keep going. When Phil calls, I'll ask him to bring home "Special Dinner" because I am in the creative zone - no time for food preparation! This Chinese porcelain idea reminds me of Wedgwood. That sort of medium blue. Make that color.

Now for application. I want a necklace. A whole necklace looks a little too busy. Hows about I pick one bead and make it the centerpiece of a plainer necklace? Too plain.That single bead looks better jazzed up. What other junk can I put on them?

Oh look! Catherine put some peacock feathers in a vase. They are so gorgeous. Love the golden/yellow with the blues and greens of the feather....must.....paint....more.......beads.

These are so colorful and fun for summer. I think I'll make some for The Market. I hope people like them. I think they will. So cheerful, almost endearing -  all the more so for their organic imperfectness. They possess a certain "folkloric" quality. Didn't Phil say, "Hey, those remind me of those Russian nesting dolls." Is that a good thing? I think it's a good thing. They make me smile! Smiling is good. I feel happy. And creative.  

So that's the way the whole bead thing went down. Hidden in the narrative above were some thoughts and questions bouncing around my head and heart that I've listed below. Taking a minute to answer/ ponder them would be a fun creative exercise every once in awhile. As for your answers, journal them, jot them on an envelope, or just think about them. In doing so, you run your creative engine, enabling it to take you to a richer, more interesting, more mindful life!

Creative Exercise: Your Surroundings

Look around you. What is attracting your attention? 

Take a minute to ponder what is appealing about this thing. 

Do you see it everyday or only certain times?

What can you note about the color? Texture? Shape? Memory Association?

If this thing made music, what song would it be?

How does it/would it smell?

If you had to incorporate this element into your life, how would you do that? How would it translate into your wardrobe? Your home decor? Your garden? Your cooking? Your workplace?

Looking at your answers above, do any appeal to you? Then incorporate away! But only if you want to bring a freshness, an excitement to your life!

We'd love to receive your comments and learn about your experiences with creativity. No matter how big or small, share. They are sure to be inspiring!

A Message from The Market: Igniting Your Creative Engine

I believe every person on this planet has creative ability. Everyone. After some conversations with friends,  it's become apparent to me that not everyone agrees with the universality of creative giftedness. Hmmmm. We'll have to do something about that. It's common to long after some one else's "gift" or "talent."  DON'T DO IT. Eyes on your own paper, please. The world needs what YOU bring to the table. Not a poor imitation of what you think the world wants. 

SO. How does one find this authentic, personal creative voice?  Well, guess what. It is possible to discover ones own particular area of creative ability, nurture it, exercise it and enjoy the fruits of artistic expression! Those fruits being: a sense of accomplishment, the mastery of a skill, a healthy outlet for feelings, the provision of inspiration and beauty for others, to name a few. I'm not a professional artist. I feel uncomfortable with calling myself an artist at all. Some things I've done have indeed taken artistry to accomplish, but I have no formal training. And yet, the ability to get ideas, take on creative endeavors, and receive enormous satisfaction from them gets easier as time goes by. From time to time, this blog will offer a glimpse into the creative process. The whole thing. Not just the pretty parts of making something, but honest looks at rocky beginnings (when one is completely listless, directionless, utterly lacking in any inspiration or even inclination to do anything ever again) to self doubt, to self aggrandizement to recognition that one lacks the skill necessary to carry out one's vision, to the ultimate achievement: partial success! Sounds, cheery, n'est ce pas? I'd love to hear your comments or questions anytime. Let's begin!

Whatever you can do, or think you can, begin it. Boldness has power, and genius, and magic in it. -Goethe