Monday, November 12, 2007

Art or Craft????



I have been contemplating this question lately. I realize that the term "artist" does not feel right. I thought it was because I just was not comfortable with it but in exploring books and blogs and craft fairs, I have come to realize that "crafter" feels more like home to me. I am not sure is that is good or not. Maybe I should stretch to become an artist???? I have realized that I am really good at following directions. I can create things because I can follow directions. I am not very successful at creating my own patterns--the exception is creating collages--but like with sewing, I have something to start with--printed papers or fabrics. I can do freestyle stuff like this fabric collage/art quilt, "Ode to Diabetes"

It turned out to be a tribute to my son Jacob and his struggle with type 1 diabetes. That was not my intention--it was a diabetes piece but not Jacob--however that is what it turned into.
I like these because I can free hand the pieces. I don't have to mix colors only pick colors I like. It is fun but takes a lot of mental energy. I do not spend enough time doing this but more following directions, patterns etc. I just joined a yahoo group for fabric postcard exchanges. I thought that would give me an opportunity to do some of these on a small scale and practice more.
So art or craft? What really is the difference except how much you pay for it! Really there has to be more of a difference then that!

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