There’s a transformation that happens within us as we transform raw materials into something meaningful. Sculpting can open an experience of discovery and wonder, somewhere between mere dopamine release and enlightenment. The pathway there isn’t obvious, and may seem strange at first, but becomes more accessible with practice and support. Then discovery can become meaning, which is unique but also sharable. As a peer group of sculptors PNWS can provide a context for this otherwise odd process, and provide direct feedback to the question, “Is this odd, new thing meaningful?”
We trust each other enough to ask this, because we’ve been to that place of discovery through creation, with enough experience to know when we’re fooling ourselves and can benefit from another perspective. Pacific Northwest Sculptors has created space(s) for that meeting of perspectives. We’ve created and re-created PNWS for over 22 years. It’s not a service that’s sold to Members; it is generated by Members. You have to show up to make it work. Share your art and witness others. This is an alternative economy of shared meaning and experience through art, building relationships towards building community.
PNWS now sustains a variety of places for those meetings between artists, given a loose but reliable framework of routines, principles and online presences. Like an open vessel allowing a stream of content and collaborations to continue. Where this will take our group is unknown. The door is open for Members to join existing activities, shows and networking possibilities, or develop fresh projects supported by our collective resources. Our Board of directors is aiming to be inclusive for all who want to activate the group, attempting to strip away barriers to access. I believe we can strike that balance of highest good with meaningful fun. Aspiring to principles and fostering practices of discovery and wonder, engaging with transformation of materials, those intangible experiences sculptors recognize in each other.