Who knew when I took this pic a few years ago of the tooth fairy doll I made that I would become a chicken saviour :)The Dark Side
I had a discussion with someone who said they don't focus on the negatives in life. I wonder what that means exactly. I often hear this in this country and wonder if it's a cultural thing, a Geordie thing, or an artist thing? The brits tend to be more cynical than Americans in general, and Geordie's are known as hard workers who are used to hardships,have the knack to survive difficult times, and are down-to-earth. I was the only one I knew in New Jersey that read "angela's ashes" and didn't find it depressing. What does saying one doesn't focus on the negatives imply? Does paying attention to the negatives equate to embracing failure (haven't we seen this drummed into us about the war), negativity,or depression, or being a pessimist rather than a realist. Does it equate to meaning one will project or invite a negative energy or isn't able to be a positive person? I have always viewed negatives as just being a part of the yin & yang of life. I neither fear them or reject them, nor do I spend an inordinate amount of time focussed on it.Maybe it's because I'm an artist and that is what many artists do, explore darker issues. I don't know. What do you think?
Just to clarify, the discussion about not focusing on negatives wasn't inspired by my art or exhibit, but a totally unrelated conversation about current issues and politics around the world.
Interesting observation at my reception: When I introduced myself to a couple they were surprised I was a woman. I asked them why and they said they felt the work was strong and thought the show had been done by a man.
