Friday, November 24, 2006

Active Chaos

Lisa Engelbrecht had so many wonderful, wise thoughts about being creative when I took her class in Houston. One was about "active chaos." She said when you have supplies and sketches and tools and everything all spread out on your work surface... that's active chaos. Neat little piles of projects waiting to be completed is "passive chaos." She encouraged us to embrace the active chaos because that's when art really happens. I've had lots of active chaos since my return from Houston.

My desk.


My work table.


My mail center.

These are orders for my how to book "Small Art Quilts: Designing a Series." I am so thrilled that so many people are interested in it. I hope it's a big shot of inspiration for their creative spirits! (It has been for mine!)

Next items to dig out of the chaos: Christmas ornaments for a swap hosted by Amy. A couple of Christmas gifts. And curtains. (Guess which I am least excited about.)

7 comments:

kathy said...

hmmmm...some people get excited about curtains; kind of like mending.

Sue Seibert said...

Got my book, Deborah...love it. Can't wait to start creating...by Monday I think I will be able to sit at the work table some!

Melly Testa said...

I think I need to start creating again. I feel lack and longing just looking at your pictures.

Debra said...

Now chaos in any form drives me away from creating. It seems my mind cannot process with the clutter... and simply shuts down.

Trying to find a good creative atmosphere is really important to me now.

Anonymous said...

I think my studio has moved from active chaos to pure chaos that has no purpose. It's hard to create when you can't find anything at all...

I can't wait to get my copy of your book!

Leah said...

Deborah, i came your way from Janet's blog who recently purchased your book. I'm so impressed with this book you've put together! Your blogs (and you!) are so wonderfully creative. Love em!!

Elle said...

I'm just trying to reduce all of my "general" chaos, LOL.