It's a start

So MB&B had a small "start" recently with Walton County's Youth Advocacy Board's "Why can't you, EXPO"

If you were there for it, you know how it worked but if you weren't... here's the breakdown.
The EXPO had a ton of "stations," each had a different interest or career path. There were tons of people sharing their life's passions with kids who have their whole futures ahead of them. There was a "why can't you be a photographer," booth which was outstanding. "why can't you be a firefighter," among others.

Mine was small but mighty, "why can't you be an artist." I got out the IPAD with a wide array of my current and older projects to look at, but it was the sidewalk chalk that was the project of the day. I really enjoyed getting down and dirty with layers of colors and from the gritty paws the kids had, I think they enjoyed it as much as I did. (and for those of you slightly giggling at the photo in the Walton Tribune... I'm laughing with you.) Really glad for the opportunity to get out there and talk a little about the struggles and rewards of a creative life.

Now, for bigger things. I'm planning a one day clinic soon. Details are fuzzy but I do think the stars are starting to align for an afternoon of art and fun!

Getting things started

Okay, so there is no better place to start then with dreams. I'll let you in on mine. It's not a state secret but it's the first time I've left the windows of my dream open to let in the air and light.

I have it in my mind that it's possible. An art guild. The product of years as a military brat going to youth centers across the country and abroad, the product of my grandma teaching me to crochet, of my mom bringing home paints, glue and more art supplies then I could imagine at the time.

I want a small building where we can host drawing lessons for kids, with guest and resident artists hosting the classes at an affordable cost. I want a digital photography class where they can learn to use the camera to take "good," photos and learn how to edit them using editing software. (and yeah... I mean Photoshop!) I'd like a sculpture class, a class on "healing art," using art as a way to express and release pain, joy, and all of those emotions we sometimes have a hard time releasing. I want a place for students to present their works. A lovely gallery that will do the artists justice. Small studios for the students who have moved on from classes to their own personal studies. I want to hold camps for kids and adults. Affordable continued artistic education.

I want it all. It's been my dream for many years. It's changed and evolved from just a youth center to an "arts" center. At it's core is my family; my sisters who see the value of art of any kind, my parents who support me no matter how impractically artistic I might be, my friends who just "get it." and of course Parker, who is supporting me and my dreams more then I was able to support him.

So cheers to a dream.
and now,
getting started.