The CREATIVE HEART

Columns by Mary Lee Bensman

(I will post a different column periodically)

Don't judge a defect too harshly

I was perusing my woodworking catalog and came upon an item on sale: Ambrosia Maple Blanks. I had no idea what it was, but it sounded wonderful. In fact, my dictionary describes ambrosia as "Something with an especially delicious flavor or fragrance."

My woodworking catalog, however, had a different definition. "Ambrosia is a term used to describe maple that has been affected by the ambrosia beetle. The beetle bores into the maple tree leaving a wonderful discoloration in various shades of brown. The streaks of color make for interesting and exciting patterns when turned on the lathe."

The damage done by the beetle makes it beautiful. Hmmm.

Bird's eye maple is another wood that is popular. Googling that, I discovered that bird's eye maple is a growth defect. It is the result of grain deviation which gives it the high contrast in color and reflectivity.

And then there's spalted maple. According to woodweb.com, spalting is the result of activity by the white rot fungi.

This isn't a lesson in maple. This is a reflection on not judging a piece of wood (or possibly yourself) too harshly for things that appear to be defects. When I first started turning wood, I thought I was supposed to get rid of every crack, every bug hole, and all of the bark. But the more I work with discarded wood, the more I believe that these defects add character and possibly make a piece way more interesting than one that has no variation in color or pattern. It may look more rustic, less refined. But definitely interesting. Of course, smooth, unblemished can look stunning. There's a place for all.

Regardless of the medium, creative pursuits aren't meant to be experiences of perfectionism. They are meant to be free and spontaneous, flowing from our inner, and possibly flawed, selves.

Full-time Artist

After a 30-year career in architecture, my brother recently gave his notice in order to pursue a new career as a full-time artist. For decades, he has been creating pottery in the evenings and on weekends, snatching time where he could. He & his wife also raised three children during this time.

During the recent Christmas holidays, my brother took two weeks off work. Instead of spending that time on a vacation away from home as he normally would have, he spent it in his basement studio. He loved immersing himself in this craft which has nagged him for so long.

When he returned to work, he realized just how ready he was to make a change. His wife, who steadily works on her novel every morning before going to her professional job, encouraged him to take the leap.

When my brother told me of his decision to risk this new adventure, my mouth dropped open--not because I think he is crazy, but because only four months earlier, when I was visiting him in Oregon, he had no desire to market his work. His house is lined with his pottery--it is on every window sill, on the counter tops and on end tables. Yet, he wasn't a bit interested in pursuing sales. He didn't need the extra income and he wasn't ready to let go of his "babies".

Shortly afterward, he agreed to put a few of the pieces he wasn't so emotionally attached to in a gallery and sold three. Inspired by this, he made further sales to co-workers.

With the encouragement of gallery owners, friends and family, he looked at his life and realized he was ready for a change. And he has jumped. I'm not necessarily suggesting that those of us who still have day (or night) jobs up and leave them to follow our own creative passions! My brother waited 30 years for the right time. His three children have been "launched" as he puts it. He spent many years refining his skills and accumulating inventory. The doors for sales have opened. He has the support and encouragement of his family. For him, it is the right time, with all things coming together.

His day job wasn't a detriment to his creativity--perhaps it even encouraged it. It provided him with money for equipment and supplies. And his architectural skills come into play as he designs unique pots and wooden handles.

Even though it seemed to have happened overnight, the idea of being a full-time artist has been germinating for years. He took the time to listen to his heart, and stepped out in faith as opportunities arose. This story reinforces in me the importance of pursuing one's creative call regardless of circumstances, seizing opportunities when they arise, having the patience to wait for the right timing and the courage to risk--all part of honoring the call within.

Go to "Voice for Life"