Shifts

To Shift .... so many definitions of this short, 5-letter word.  For this post, I am looking at the "to change position, direction, place, or form."  Shifts are taking place in our lives every single day, visible shifts, or those that are more subtle.  Looking at the history of fashion is a typical example how many influences (whether it be culture, economic, seasonal, technological) factor into play the current trends in clothing design as above.

Movie star sense of drama and fashion cross over into what we see in our stores....like these Lady Gaga shoes...aren't they outrageous!

Eyewear is always changing.

And, of course, hair and makeup fashions are getting edgier and edgier....I happen to love it.

But what do changes or "shifts" in the fashion world have to do with mixed media art you ask???  Last week I was visiting my friend, Deryn Mentock's, blog post of January 8 "The Creative Path Forward" and loved her message (and that of Rebecca Sower).  Each expressing the importance of looking back to where we've been, where we have come from, and acknowledging the changes and shifts that have taken place in our lives, and how they have shaped our lives.......shaped who we are today as a human being and for the purposes of this post, in our artwork.

I, too, like Deryn and Rebecca have created a mosaic typifying my artwork over the last few years.  This was such an eye-opening exercise and allowed me to see what has influenced my artwork, the shifts I have made, and the different directions I have taken.  Enriching my education through classes and retreats have definitely added to my design direction.  The people I design for have an influence over my work to a certain extent, incorporating their interests with my style......always staying true to my ideals and creative self.  My found object, gem and mixed media treasure collection has an impact on my designs.....my inspiration. Most importantly what I see when looking at this time capsule mosaic is the growth I have made during the last 4 years. Growth in self-confidence,  growth in allowing myself freedom to express.....or not to express....if I need a nourishing hiatus, I take one, without feeling I "have" to produce.  During those down times, the shifts of creation going on inside our being (both conscious and unconscious) in the deep recesses of our souls is what will manifest itself in our future artwork.

With the beginning of each new year, we tend to look back over our shoulder at the paths we have chosen and at the same time, look forward to where we are or want to be going.  This year, I want to become a sponge and soak up new experiences both in my personal life and artwork.  To be fully present to life, moment to moment.  I look with anticipation as I venture into new territory in mixed media art.  Perhaps some would consider these "goals", and not shifts.  But there is a point when pursuing new goals, through self-discovery, we make those shifts that have an everlasting effect in our lives.  

When contemplating the shifts I would like to manifest in my life, I try to consider the following five elements gleaned from one of Oprah's broadcasts:

1. Do I have a realistic vision for myself?

2.  Believe in my heart that I can achieve my vision.

3.  Know that I am deserving.

4.  Acknowledge barriers that may be keeping me from achieving my vision.

5.  Put myself first..and ask for support when needed.

So here I go, with one baby step at a time, making the Shifts for 2011.....can't wait.

Tootles

Diana