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Tuesday, January 27, 2009

It's Amazing...


how much time is taken up by things that have nothing much to do with art at all. And I don't mean the housework, here. I spent yesterday working out what to say on a leaflet that would promote my coaching services and tailored workshops. It wasn't easy. In a way, it's a bit like designing an abstract. What you are aiming for (or at least, what I aim for) is clarity, simplicity and an ability to draw in the viewer; pretty much what you need in a brochure, too. But you do have to think, not just about what you want to say, but also what the person reading it wants to know. This is particularly true of coaching; people use the word, but don't really know what it entails. So, in the end, I said this;

I believe we have the answers to our own problems; it's just that we can't always see the wood for the trees. It's my job as a coach to guide you through the wood, paying attention to all the things that are getting in your way. I ask lots of questions, and encourage you to come up with your own answers. Sometimes, I will show you a new way of looking at things. Other times, I may show you a useful technique for doing something, like managing your time better. I will help you to work out what you really want, and plan how to get it. We can work together for as long as you wish, in complete confidence.

Pretty much, I think that says it all. I hope it does, anyway. In the same way, I think that some of my work says everything I want it to say...and then some. Like this digital manipulation of a photograph of a cracked floor tile, which to my eye, expresses all kinds of emotions. What are you trying to say, today? And how are you going to say it?

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

I hear you on spending time on wording!
I find it time consuming trying to find the words for all my classes that might excite people...
Your wording is VERY GOOD!

Chrissie said...

You'll do a brilliant job with your brochure Marion! And food for thought, as always, in your final challenge!

Anne Huskey-Lockard said...

First off, I love the photo---it speaks to me, probably because of all the red.
Second, finding words for YOUSELF is always harder than words about someone else. Those--for me--flow. When I am asked about myself, or attempt to write about my work, especially in third person, everything dries up. So maybe this is a normal artist-block thing.
And yes, all the work surrounding artwork, that does not actually LET you do artwork is by far the most frustrating thing for me.
Excellent post!

kimforbeads said...

You chose the perfect wording, great job. I also love red so I love your picture. Wonderful shop.
Kim

Diane Elizabeth Apple said...

First off, the photo really grabbed me. What a surprise to find it was a digital manipulation! Good words for your coaching flyer, too. As for "what do I want to say today", I will keep that in mind as I work and play! -- Diane

Anonymous said...

When I first glanced at this it reminded me of a Royal Doulton(?)plate with a "Chinese" motif in turquoise and red that my mother bought VERY much reduced in a sale - she liked it so much she went back to but another one - and just about had a heart attack when she found out how much it REALLY cost! I must Google and see if I can find a picture of it to send to you. When are you back up north next?
xxx
Sheila B