You know how a song can take you back in time? "Sounds of Silence," by Simon and Garfunkel, is an express train to 1966 – 9th grade at Exeter Union High School, sitting at a real art desk. The art teacher has asked us to listen to the record player and I've just been introduced to The Moody Blues. Rock mixed with classical. Genius.
Our 1st assignment was to paint a song, using only the words. So many exciting pieces were created – "I fell into a burning ring of fire" – "Imagine all the people, living life in peace" – "These boots are made for walkin'." I wish I could still see them.
I was so happy, and so proud to be part of that creative world. And, thanks to sympathetic teachers who gave me passes to get out of algebra class, I was rescued from boredom. I was given free rein to create what I wanted, using clay, wood, paint, beads. I made a green leather vest and knee-high moccasins to match.
I belonged. I carried my art around, in my bag and in my heart. And I've never stopped.
My brother Al commented on FB- I had to post it here: I remember that drawing like yesterday. I remember writing the only poem I ever wrote after seeing it: There he goes, just a man. No one knows him, or cares. So alone he walks, and inside he cries. Cause the world is his, to share.
ReplyDeleteIt's funny--I can imagine that a parent might be worried about depression if they saw their daughter create this, but you describe the experience as entirely happy and fulfilling. I guess that's the magic of creation. It reminds me of when Renny sketched the opening ballet scene from White Nights......
ReplyDeleteLandon