I recently had an opportunity to compare a bracelet I made with a similar type of bracelet made by someone else of the same materials. Her bracelet was clearly the more professional-looking one. She'd sanded it perfectly smooth and buffed it to a gorgeous shine. Mine was attractive, but didn't have that perfect smoothness of hers. It got me thinking.
I could spend the extra time to sand and buff each piece, and I do think it would make a visible difference in my work, and probably elevate it to the level of "art." The question is, do I
want that? I went to a craft show recently where my biggest customer demographic was teenage girls. Most of what they bought was in the $13 range - earrings and barrettes, generally. They also liked the $8 covered Bic pens. If I were to advance my art, I would end up excluding customers like this who were clearly excited by what I had made. I would find myself seeking out a more sophisticated client with expensive taste and the income to afford it. Frankly, I'm more comfortable with what I am doing now. I feel like I belong in this world - I really *don't* belong in the world of the wealthy, and I feel more comfortable selling to people who are more like myself.
So, does this mean I am purposely stunting my artistic growth? And if so, is there anything wrong with that? Consider my story an example, and let's talk about this in more general terms. If a craftsperson has the talent and means to take her work to a higher level, does she have an obligation of some kind to do so? Is it a squandering of talent to be content with "really good" and not bother to go for "excellent" ?
What do you think?
Lisa
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Lisa Clarke
Have had your daily dose of Polka Dots?
