Design Principles: Diversity
Structures #69 ©2007 8.5" x 15.5"
Some more thoughts on the design principles from my kids’ Expeditionary Learning school and how they relate to being an artist. I’m taking a bit of a break from moving activities.
[All my posts on design principles.]
Design Principle #7: Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion in all groups dramatically increases richness of ideas, creative power, problem-solving ability, and acceptance of others. Encourage students to investigate, value and draw upon their own different histories, talents and resources together with those of other communities and cultures. Keep the schools and learning groups heterogeneous.
The Quilt Ghetto
Many (most?) textile/fiber artists tend to hang out with only other fiber artists. I hear the same is true for other disciplines such as photography or ceramics. When I started as an artist working in textiles, I was stuck in that same trap. Groups form to share ideas and techniques, friendships are made, it’s a great way to grow as an artist. It’s also a great way to get caught in the quilt ghetto.
The past 3 or 4 years I’ve actively looked to expand my circle of art friends and have found, just as the principle states, that the diversity results in richer ideas, more create power and problem solving ability and the ability to be more accepting of others.
Blogging has been a tremendous asset in building a more diverse and heterogeneous community. Once I get settled in Denver I’m looking forward to building new relationships with more artists of a variety of disciplines. I encourage all artists to break away from the pack every once and see what you can learn from those working in a different medium.
Structures #69 - Moving Sale
This small piece was inspired by the piece of artwork selected by Quilt National 2007 and now on tour, Structures #55. Today is the last day of my moving sale. Originally priced at $250, it is $150 for the next few days (since I’m posting it so late).
If you are interested in purchasing Structures #69, or any of my available artwork please email me.
Structures #55 ©2006 33" x 74"
Posted by Lisa in: Being an Artist
Tagged: Art for Sale, design principles, diversity, group energy
