This time of year is special to so many people the world over. In New England, it's crisp, often dusted with snow, and the wonderful smell of hearth fires is in the air. Recently I thought about an activity that became a Christmas tradition for a few years when I was working at a craft gallery and creating papier maché bracelets to sell. I was one of several artists asked to make ornaments for the Massachusetts state tree on the Washington, D.C., Mall. It was an honor to participate, and I tried to create ornaments that would contribute to the spirit of love and peace that is so much a part of Christmas.
I've branched out from papier maché into photography, pottery, watercolors, even computer art, but no matter what medium, for me art seems to have an underlying theme of joy. It comes from somewhere deep inside, in that quiet spot in the heart that is responding to God's inspiration. I feel best about the work I do, when it reflects the Christlike qualities of love, happiness, peace—when it lifts up and inspires.
When I was working as a graphic artist on deadline, I had to acknowledge daily that God was giving me the ability to complete whatever was required. There's a hymn that's encouraged me when I've been thinking about the creative process, be it photography, writing, or painting. Two of the lines read, "The work to be performed is ours./ The strength is all His own." And it ends, "His is the power by which we act, / His be the glory too." Christian Science Hymnal, No. 354. I've found this helpful in challenging that sense of personal ego or personal glory.
