Monday, November 17, 2008

An Artist's Date that will make you overflow with creativity


Creatives need refueling. I found after watching the video Chihuly, River of Glass that I went into a heightened state of observation. Everything around me was sharper, more intense and informing my work. Parts of the film brought tears to my eyes, and other parts had me cheering out loud. You have got to make a date to see it!!!
What I love about painting or literature is being able to create or view another world. The painting or book becomes a portal to a fantasy place of escape. Dale Chihuly's glass brings that world here and that would be the first reason to check it out.
But then there's the collaboration on the project itself. The film somehow bottles the enthusiasm, passion and creative high of the artists for you to drink in. Chihuly as conductor, has them pushing the limits of their medium like never before and making history in the process. He also gets "some of the most extraordinary masters in the history of glass, not just the 20th century" working on the making these glass chandeliers that will hang outside over the canals of Venice.
You can get a peek of the film on his website, and many other stimulating projects. There are plenty of interviews, collaborations, and exhibitions for you to use to inform your art. If you're not an artist, watch of course for the joy of it, and to refresh your creativity and problem solving skills.

7 comments:

picciolo said...

wow s sounds great, I'll have to check it out!
: )

Regina said...

I love Chihuly's work. Hubby & I went to St. Louis to see an installation of his work at the Missouri Botanical Garden in '07 (which coincided with our 25th wedding anniversary). We saw a short film while we were there & I was astounded at the impact he has made around the world with his gorgeous creations. Thanks for reminding me of that wonderful day.

Shayla said...

Regina, awesome! That must have been fabulous. I'd love to see one of his installations in real life.

Unknown said...

I'll pop over and have a look as I've not heard of this video before. Glad that you are overflowing wtih creativity :D

Tracy said...

Very exciting and enlightening...I love anything that stokes the fires and keeps 'em burning. Thanks, Shayla! Glad your own sources have been renewed...Happy week creating! ((HUGS))

Jeane Myers said...

I've seen this film and agree with all you say - we here in the NW are a bit spoiled since we can see Chihuly in many places, but his installations are the gut busters! - all that gorgeous colored glass in places that shouldn't have glass - I think that is part of his brilliance - especially in outdoor spaces.

Shayla said...

Ooh! I'm so jealous ;) I agree Jeane, glass is meant to be shown with light. Of course it would be most spectacular outside, with natural light. I loved the "icicle" type piece he put in the snow. Exposed, somewhat fragile but spectacular!