tinahdee

Some days are just so introspective. Have you ever noticed that introspection does not lend itself to happy-go-lucky moods? When a friend dies, it makes me reflect on life, the fleeting nature of it and the many injustices and ironies in this world. That’s how it was for me yesterday.

It helps to run to something that comforts – but so many things offer a cold comfort that betrays me later. Only by running to something larger than myself can I be truly comforted. I find that larger thing when I run to the creative. Sitting at my table and making things connects me to my maker and I can find peace.

I’m still feeling introspective, but it is tempered with perspective.

Fall seven times, stand up eight

There are certain pieces of jewelry I make that I know I will not duplicate. These always have a higher price – there’s a part of me that thinks I price them higher because just maybe I don’t want anyone to buy them. But the rational part of me knows that the reason they cost you more is because they are truly unique. Usually these pieces are the result of a particular flash of inspiration, or just what I walked out of the shop with one day when I went in just to play. I’m not completely sure what earns something a one-of-a-kind designation. It’s not like I couldn’t make more of the same – it’s just that every now and then something is created and it tells me that it is the only one, and I agree with it.

My one of a kind beauties get to be with me for a while; they don’t usually sell quickly. So it comes as a surprise when one day, a customer decides he wants that particular piece. My first gut response is “… wait! Are you sure? You mean you really want to pay “x” for that? But… I’m not sure!” Then my rational brain takes over, finds the piece, shines it up and packs it, and kisses it a fond farewell. Goodbye art, hello money! Not being a money-driven person, sometimes I’m still not sure it’s worth the trade. “Yes, it is. No, wait… Oh, goodbye. Time to go create something else.”

One of a kind...