Dragonsglass

the last couple of weeks I have doing some thinking. What makes an artist an artist? Is it that they call themselves an artist? Is it that they sell at fairs and shows? Or that they teach their art? What differentiates between a crafter and an artist? Do crafters have a different set of ethics and values then an artist? So many questions and no one pat answer to any of them.

I am not sure *I* have the answer for any of these but I have thoughts. I used to called myself an artist, in glass, polymer clay and wire. Now I am not so sure this is the right thing to call myself. It’s so very hard to put a “label” on ones self. I *enjoy* working with my glass, wire and clay. I enjoy creating things that my mind sees. But, is this enough to claim the label of “artist”?

I sell some of my items, be it raw canes or completed jewelry. I enjoy sharing my items. I enjoy seeing what others have made with them. I enjoy knowing that someone else has something they like and will treasure. Does this make me an artist? Somehow I don’t think so. It more likely makes me a salesperson. Or..someone who likes to share stuff.

I have taught clay classes. I enjoy teaching classes, seeing the students eyes light up when they realize they *can* make a cane and have it look awesome. I love seeing their faces when they create an item from their own minds, not following a tutorial. Does this make me an artist? Actually, I think this makes me a teacher.

There are so many out there I consider true artists. Their works are eye candy, filling the mind with emotions. I don’t seriously think I am in the same category, much less the same “label” as they are. I guess this makes me more of a crafter then an artist right? Or maybe not. For all I know there are pieces of my work out there that others consider eye candy and that fill their mind and soul with emotions.

What I think it really comes down to is what one sees them self as. I see myself as a human being that enjoys making and sharing creations, be they of glass, clay or wire. And, as a human being I too can get wrapped up in labels and all the baggage that goes with them. And, as a human being (still ) I find I can make mistakes, speak without thinking, make without engaging the brain, forget, remember, anger, sadden, and so on. I find myself looking back at last year and how it ended, and promise to myself to be more aware of myself in my art/creations. This year is new (5768)…and I aim to keep lines of communication open, with myself, and with others.