On the Making of "Being & Becoming" (2023)

Then suddenly during its development, the vision shifted.

On the Phrases in "Shame & Redemption" - Part 8

But one of the great things about having ADHD has been recognizing that my enthusiasm (which is often linked to impulsivity) is also my greatest power for creativity.

On the Phrases in "Shame & Redemption" - Part 5

In this month of June, a month marked by celebrating diverse identities of all kinds, I think it is important to reflect on how many people (starting in childhood) are told - in one form or another and by various individuals or groups both in their family circles and beyond - that they are "terrible" because they differ from whatever hegemonic norm society says is the pinnacle of societal success.

On Why What You Make Matters

We all deserve art and beauty in this world.

On Age Quod Agis

Age quod agis means “Do what you are doing.”

On Why Artists Can Break the Rules

Artistic expression depends on what the goal is for the individual artist rather than a standardized body of study.

On Improving

“As you create, you will naturally improve. Do not wait until you think you are good enough to start. You are always good enough to start improving.”

On Using Our Talents for Peace and Love

“I only hope we can use all of our talents and creativity towards peace and love.”

On Not Always Enjoying the Creative Process

"I don't like to write, but I love having written." - Dorothy L. Sayers

On Mixing It up!

And I stay interested in what I do because I get to change it up.

On Why Making Art Isn't about "Having Fun"

Making art is a lot of work. It takes skill, often specialized, and concentrated labor. To make good art requires intelligence and often education.

On Looking Back at How Far I've Come

‘Look back a year ago and see where you were then compared to today. You’ve come so far. I’m so proud of you.”

Mara GilesOctober 27, 2020looking back, balance, art heals, artsewdifferent, art journey, creative energy, creating artComment

On Erratic Creative Energies

This year has been unusual, to say the least.

Mara GilesAugust 31, 2020creating art, creativity, creative energy, art quilt, artsewdifferent

On Choosing the Correct Possibility

Every second holds infinite potential!

Mara GilesJune 26, 2020potential, possibility, choices, art, artist, creating art, creative energy, creativity, artsewdifferent

On Traveling Far

Today I feel like I (and my art!) have come very far in the last 3 years.

On Not Withering Away

“I must lose myself in action, lest I wither in despair.” - Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Mara GilesApril 23, 2020imagination, art journey, creative energy, creating art, counting blessings, art quilt

On Knowing Myself

Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power. - Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

Mara GilesApril 22, 2020knowing myself, creative energy, creating art, choices, becoming, compassion, art quilt, art journey

On Making "Cat by a Koi Pond"

Although it took me a while to get each part to look as close to how I had imagined it, I took my shot and did it.

On Finding My Groove

Decades later I became an artist and found the perfect groove had been waiting for me all along.

Mara GilesJanuary 17, 2020artist, art journey, creative energy, creativity, looking back, balance, exuberance, respect

My artist journey