Call it what you will- economic

downturn, recession, or monetary

slough. For those of us who

create things that are not necessary for

everyday consumption, things are more

challenging than in happy money times.

Unlike some of you more reserved folks,

I tend to complain out loud. While vociferously

venting financial and artistic

frustrations has some possible long-term

health benefits, it also welcomes advice

from every corner. Here is some of the

feedback that I have received: 1) Make

sculpture that is more accessible. 2)

Replicate work. 3) Choose a different

medium. 4) Give up and get a real job.

5) Innovate.

Personally I like number 5. The world in

shift is a good time to think differently,

try new things, and push boundaries like

never before. Art can and should reflect

the time that it was made and provide

a social commentary, insight, and/or a

narrative into the mindset of the community

that it was made in. And so while

the rest of world is choosing reserve

while it continues to consume the same

reserves, we have an opportunity to conceive

new ideas, break new ground and

lead through innovation and inspiration.

And so, here is my suggestion for you.

Try something new… what have you got

to lose?

-Gerda Lattey