Opportunites

Sometimes an opportunity is really obvious - like the chance to do an Arts Residency. From that opportunity other positive things can arrive. Maybe the odd negative thing might need to be navigated too. It can be a learning curve. An educational opportunity to be sure. Earlier this week I had a class of school kids visit my studio. This was certainly an educational experience for me, and hopefully the students.

Firstly, I learned that these little kids are fully aware of the concept of recycling. I explained that I recycle metals to make jewellery and asked if they knew what that meant - a sea of little arms shot up! I am pretty sure if they were older there would have been some eye-rolling at the banality of my question. The answer given was succinct, clear and delivered with absolute certainty. Needless to say, I was delighted.

Secondly, I learned that these teachers are obviously a breed apart. It is no mean feat wrangling 30 curious little people whilst being respectful of both the students and me. These folks have earned their halos and my complete admiration for their patience, management and recognition of every learning opportunity - even if it wasn’t planned.

I also thought about these kids and their thirst for knowledge and joy of discovering things about their world. An insatiable curiosity. Creatives are rather like that too. Curious. Given to exploration and discovery. A desire to know how things work, to push the odd boundary of materials and notions. And to keep on learning.

“Do stuff. Be clenched, curious. Not waiting for inspiration’s shove or society’s kiss on your forehead. Pay attention. It’s all about paying attention” Susan Sontag