Monday 27 October 2008

Simple Art


What is your definition of artistic? I'd really love to know.
Do you consider yourself to be artistic?
I have spent years wishing that I was artistic and feeling quite a failure in that department.
I can't draw.
Give me watercolours and a paintbrush and I can't paint either.
On my first day at my Grammar School, we had to create a picture of something that we had done in the summer holidays.
(If only I could have written about it!! )
Anyway, I remember this art lesson very well, as I was sitting beside a very talented girl, who at 11 was a most gifted artist. She drew horses, amongst other things and her creation was nothing short of a masterpiece.
Mine? Well, my parents had taken me to Blackpool that summer and one evening we went to see...The Dave Clark Five!
And that's what I chose to draw. It was a disaster and I certainly was not 'Glad All Over' and neither was the art mistress!
(If you are a lot younger than me, 'Glad All Over' was a huge hit for this group,at the time)
But, in spite of what I think is my lack of artistic ability, I have always loved art, appreciated art, enjoyed teaching different techniques and most of all, displaying children's art in my classroom.
I find it easy to work 'simple' because for me, simple is effective.
And this is what I did yesterday, in the midst of trying to finish off a few things ( plus watching two football matches, cooking a roast meal etc etc !)

Simple creations with paper and buttons!

Hope you have a creative week, whatever you might be doing!

And before I forget, the winner of the railway poster competition is Emma, of Jellybelly* Jellybrain. (Your comment cracked me up!)

21 comments:

  1. These look cute, Sal. Were you inspired by the "Make" book?
    Hen x

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  2. I think you are artistic Sal as you have an eye for colour and detail. In my watercolour painting classes that I attend I get frustrated that I cannot recreate a 'copy' of what I am painting. The art teacher said that the purpose is not to recreate a photographic image. We are supposed to merely suggest our observations!

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  3. I think you're very artistic and creative!

    April xx

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  4. Oooh, I'm on a winning streak at the moment!
    I don't consider myself Artistic, but I do think I'm creative. I try very had to produce what is in my head, but I can't draw to save my life!

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  5. My brothers had a Dave Clark Five album and I think I listened to it more than they!!
    I adore your cards. You are indeed an artist because that is what being an artist really means....finding the thing that makes you happy and contented- no matter what medium you use. Great cards!!
    Thank you -as always- for leaving such nice comments at my site. You are a dear!
    Amy

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  6. What is the difference between 'artistic' and 'creative'? You are obviously incredibly creative, and for me, that is artistic! 'Art' (and creativity) covers such a wide spectrum - usually we are all able to do something creative - I'm a firm believer that it feeds the soul.

    Those cards are lovely. x

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  7. wow they are lovely Sal, so pretty, I might make some myself for Chrismtas pressies
    Twiggy x

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  8. Everyone is artistic and can be creative too
    It is only personal taste that differs between one and all
    You have such a flair in both senses and should not put yourself down
    Remember what someone once said about Lowry and now he is internationally acclaimed
    At the end of the day, if you have enjoyed what you have done, then that is all that matters
    You can draw too, as you have drawn me deep into your heart xx ?

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  9. Oooo, old master's left a cryptic comment at the end there!
    Sal, I think those are gorgeous. They've worked really well, and show you have lots of talent. But you sound just like me - I've always grumbled that I can't draw. But it is true, that everybody can be artistic.

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  10. I think your very talented.....lovely cards!

    Thank you for popping in and saying hello!

    xxx

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  11. I think everyone has the potential to be artistic. It should have nothing to do with expectations or results but is an enthusiasm for doing things for the sheer pleasure of creating. I have always believed everyone 'can' paint or draw. The problem lies only in what their expectations are and often what was said to them at a very formative age. Things adults say to children like 'what on earth is it supposed to be' rather than 'tell me about your picture'. I am often dismayed by parents who attend craft workshops with their children and proceed to take over, producing a replica of the tutor's sample and looking for approval. Young children, left to their own devices and without judgement, will always produce something more magical than an adult... you just have to ask them to tell you about it so that you can see with their eyes. The problem starts when they are told 'how' to do something a particular way stiffling their natural urge to create. That's where the artistic spirit is squashed! My boy always brings home the messiest pictures and collages often completely ignoring the given theme. And I love his work the best! t.x

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  12. I think being artistic or creative doesn't have to be painting or drawing. It can be cutting & sticking, moulding or sewing, gardening or decorating - anything which brings out creativity & inspiration!

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  13. I'm not even sure what it means to be artistic. After all Tracey Emins unmade bed was supposed to be artistic. I think you are doing yourself an injustice. You certainly seem creative, the card look great.

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  14. I love all of your creations!
    These cards are really B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L!
    I love the bright colors!
    Kisses
    Debbie Moss

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  15. Beautiful cards. I would say you're very creative and are always making lovely things.
    Yvonne x

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  16. Gorgeous cards Sal. I love anything with buttons on...they're my one weakness.

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  17. I have seen your work on your blog and you are very creative. You may not know how to paint with watercolor, but you can do some great artwork because I’m looking at those great cards for yours. Anyone would love receiving a card like that.

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  18. I'm the same, just because I can't draw & paint I think I'm not artistic but at least I try!! The cards are lovely - you're very clever. Not sure if you use normal paint for any art work?? We have lots of old tins at work from as little as 50p!! They're half used etc & are in the staffroom but I'm sure you could have a look. Lots of great colours xx

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  19. You are very creative, have a good eye for colour and form and have an appreciation and love for art, architecture, music - to me this means you are artistic. I wish I could be half as talented. Your cards are so pretty. Oh - Dave Clark Five - my first 'hearthrobs' when I was 13 or 14 - I saved and saved for one of their records - I still have it somewhere:)

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  20. Hi Sal what lack of artistic ability!!!!!!
    RUBBISH your colours are scrummy, your cards are really beautiful, they have a lovely balance, it's not easy to mix patterns succesfully....whell I love them and your blog....carry on being artistic it suits you
    Lots of creative hugs
    Lynn xxxx

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  21. I think you are truly gifted and your beautiful cards are here to show that.I love every one of thes .Please drop by for my very first contest.Its real simple,not much to it.drwaing is nov. 8 hugs Marie Antionette

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Thank you for taking the time to comment! ;-)