For three days, I was honored to be an attendee of the Craft
Think Tank dedicated to discussing the world and future of craft – craft
artists, education, collecting, making, and selling. Brigitte Martin does an outstanding job of leading these annual retreats. While the entire experience was incredibly
thought provoking, I learned a profound lesson during one separate experience.
For 2 ½ hours, we were immersed in making something. The think tank took place at the amazing
Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago, with studios in so many media. I had chosen jewelry, as the tools and the
materials were something I’ve never tried to work in. My hands have been hungering lately to do
something – anything! – as I’ve been in a knitting hiatus and I find that
working with my hands feeds a part of my soul like nothing else. My soul was hungry.
 |
| Pam Robinson |
Being a complete ignorant novice was humbling. As I watched the demonstration by PamRobinson, an expert in her field of jewelry and an awesome teacher, I thought,
wow, I can do that. It doesn’t look so
hard.
 |
| At work |
You already know the end of this story. It WAS hard, so much harder than it looks,
with details and technique, familiarity and subtlety all missing on my
part. But at the end of the workshop, I,
like all the other participants, had made a ring. Mine is ugly and bumpy, a little rough at the
edges where it should not be, and a slightly different size than intended.
 |
| My ugly ring next to my beautiful ring created by Lynda Bahr |
As I got over my embarrassment about my ring’s lack of
beauty, I also realized two things. My
exhilaration from having made something was back. And my respect for jewelry artists only
increased. I have always admired their
work and marveled at the intricacy and workmanship, but I have a bit more
understanding now and only respect them more.
 |
| Proud students showing off our work |
