The Effect of the Creative

Last night I attended Talk 20, an event sponsored by C3 (The Creative Change Center) and 1708 Gallery in Richmond, Va.   Talk 20 

It was affirming, enlightening, inspirational and at times moving, to listen to each one share their creative journey. I felt in awe to be part of the gestalt that is art in Richmond and at the same time felt like an outsider, because these creatives are sooo in touch with their destiny and purpose.  The event was standing room full and was packed with artists/creatives, many of whom I recognized or knew.  What struck me as missing were people who are NOT creatives to experience an event such as this.  If we could but reach more of our community with the many positive things artists are offering not only to Richmond, but in some cases the world. 

A few examples:

Brian Korte - founder of Brickworkz.         Brickworkz 

Brian began creating mosaics out of legos which grew into a fascinating business.  His real aim?  To change the world, using his legos to facilitate fundraising for charity.  He has traveled the globe doing so. His personal volunteer passion is with Comfort Zone Camp.       Comfort Zone

My friend Susan Singer's goal is to paint Naked Women - with the purpose of changing how the world views women in often negative, idealized versions that do not exist, and bringing to light how those views affect our collective psyche.  Her blog has an international following.   Susan's blog

Tiffany Glass Ferreira is a powerhouse of energy in a very tiny package.  Her Real Small Art League is bigger than I can describe.  Real Small Art

Sheila Gray is another artist I've been fond of for years.  Her ethic of living her art and making the world a place of joy is impassioned and uplifting.   Sheila Gray

More of the creatives can be found via the Talk 20 link above.

Why am I using my blog to share this with you?  Because after, I was thinking about my own very recent journey from cluttered space to painting again to choosing to leave pet portraiture behind me.  And how all that fit in with my teaching and where I'm headed.  My friend Sarah (who attended with me) helped me realize my original intent when I began painting animals:  To show the relationship between animals and humans and somehow use that connection to change how many in the world treat animals in such brutal ways.  

I'll continue with that train of thought another time.  For now, I'm going to continue to enjoy the "afterglow" of energy and inspiration from last night's event.