| Without memory, there is no culture. Without memory, there would be no civilization, no society, no future. ~ Elie Wiesel |
Isn’t it funny how we find what we’re looking for? Recently, I’ve been reading about memory techniques used throughout history around the world. It’s been a fascinating exploration of culture, history, nature, geology, archeology, biology, art, and more! One of the sub-topics explored has been physical memory devices from around the world and how they’re used to “store” memories. Chaco Canyon has come up a few times. As has Stone Henge and other famous sites. Since I’ve been thinking about the concepts, everything I look at seems to be a potential memory device.
- This week’s artist is – Tyler Guinn – whose work I ran across on a podcast where the artist talks about the business side of his career and making the transition from creative director to full-time artist. I am generally drawn to representative art but was intrigued by Tyler’s pieces (it so often helps to hear directly from the artist about their work). Be sure to check out his website and instagram for even more!
- Thinking about objects as part of memory records – did these hand and foot prints once have even more meaning? We’ll probably never know, but as potentially the oldest cave art they may help rewrite at history!
- I ended up focusing on Egyptian art while working toward my art history minor – but I certainly didn’t learn all 2,000 Egyptian gods!
- This article on How to Reach New Heights of Personal and Creative Breakthroughs rings true for me… though some of my best insights come on a hike.
- There is a lot of live music scattered around town. See who’s playing where here.
- Don’t want to come in to town? Head out to Fox Fire Farms from 6-9 on Friday for live music. Pack your own picnic meal – get a drink at the winery.
- If you know any students who might be looking for after-school classes/workshops for any students, here’s an overview of what the Durango Arts Center is offering.
- In case Ignacio is more conveniently located, the Dancing Spirit Gallery also has classes and workshops for students.
- Just in case that’s not enough, Artsy Crafty Studio on 3rd Avenue also has classes and workshops.
- Seed Studio is currently enrolling classes for kids of all ages.
- October 30th is our last 5th Saturday event of this year. Get your bags ready!
- Our book/notebook order has been trickling in (as it’s wont to do). If you haven’t perused the shelves recently, now might be a great time to do so. We’ve added to our supply of pencil cases, hard -and soft-cover notebooks in lined and unlined papers. In short, we hope there’s a little something for everyone!
Recently I’ve been seeing everything through the “lens” of memory. Experimenting with memory techniques I’ve been learning about has led to a carving project, drawings, sketching, and more. While Looking at Tyler’s art (featured, above), I was struck by how it could be a memory device. Maybe I need to try my hand at making some abstract art…
When we look at someone’s art, we’re looking at their thoughts while they were making it. Decisions such as where to place that piece of paper, what brush stroke to make, etc. Are you sharing your unique view with the world? The world needs our art!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew