At first glance the three 28-foot-high metal-riveted wooden doors appear to struggle to stand in place, leaning against each other for support. As you approach, your understanding of the precariously perched structure changes over to an image of balance and strength.
I recently took the opportunity to explore a few of the more than seventy public art pieces displayed throughout the city of Scottsdale, Arizona. As I strolled along the landscaped paths of the Scottsdale Waterfront area, I was immediately taken by the spectacular plantings of trees and dramatic flowers, the fountains, and the public art sculptures.
I recently presented two professional development workshops in Las Vegas for music teachers in Clark County Schools. The presentations were designed for elementary, junior high, and high school teachers in the district.
I had the privilege of conducting the Arizona All-State Band last month. The experience was extraordinary. One hundred students from schools throughout the state participated after going through several steps to qualify.
Artists work in a flexible, fluid environment. It is an internal setting that is vulnerable to the process of openness and trust. When you begin a painting, sculpture, musical composition, or performance, there is potential for that artistic expression to develop into something.
Different art forms are often placed in a position to compete with one another. One art form is better than another? Surely that isn’t the case.
Artists often experience dramatic and varying waves of confidence swings. There are days when things go well, when they feel strong and productive; and then there are days when they question their abilities or feel weak and insignificant.
Every time an artist begins a new work or prepares for a performance the world is wide open. There is a level of excitement about that moment that’s invigorating. It’s a fresh start.
Artists create unique masterpieces and, although they sometimes get stuck or experience moments when they’re uninspired, they have learned ways to expand their creativity and keep their art fresh.
Images, movement, and sounds in works of art can be understood in more than one way. In fact, most artists know that appreciation and interpretation from multiple perspectives is an important characteristic of their work.