the freedom to be, pt. 2

VCCA from afar VCCA from afar

Despite living in the country, I have neglected to go for many walks this summer. I resolved that one aspect of my short summer residency at the Virginia Center for Creative Arts would include getting outside. Walking in the Virginia heat, under tall & unfamiliar trees, while hearing cicadas and the rumble of distant trains has proved to be incredibly restorative.

When I return to my studio, I am eager to start exploring. I am at the beginning of a new project—some solo piano works—and I’m still looking for a direction. That is often the hardest part for me in creative work, finding that entry point. However, I feel that I am beginning to see some potential. Today I finished my first sketch. I am not sure yet if it will make it into the final collection, and it clearly needs some revisions. However, it does feel good to be putting ideas down on “paper” again.

Shortly I will head to dinner with fellow artists. There will be good conversation, and perhaps a reading. All I know is that I will return to my studio after dinner for more explorations. All in all, another great day!

the work in progress the work in progress

the freedom to be

Consider these simple goldfish:

They have a safe pond to live in. They are fed and cared for by a watchful staff. They get to live their lives, doing their own work, day in, and day out.

While at an artists’ colony, I have the good fortune to do the same. My meals are taken care of. I have a warm place to sleep. There are ping-pong tables, and record players, and grand pianos. And all that is expected is that I engage with my work.

Today I talked about poetry, played Bach, discussed Charles Seeger’s Manual of Dissonant Counterpoint, wished fellow artists a fond farewell, and played several hilarious games of ping pong. How does that relate to my new compositions? I am happy and relaxed—what better place to write from can I ask for.