Pacific Northwest Sculptors has a diverse Membership, using a variety of mediums, and a Board of Directors facilitating various platforms for networking, exposure. and resource exchange: shows, events, partnerships with galleries and other arts groups, grant writing, education for artists and the public, calls to artists opportunities, social media, studio tours and our website. All of that is happening and tangible,
yet I believe the essence of PNWS is immaterial, possibly could be summed up in the word:
generosity.
It may even be a fundamental part of human nature to share resources and knowledge,
and it follows naturally that PNWS role is to facilitate opportunities for that sharing amongst artists.
A simple example of generosity and opportunity happened this week when three people in a row asked to donate sculpture tools and materials to the other Members of PNWS. This convergence reminded me of the Swap Meet we had about a year and a half ago. So, without much hesitation I asked Carole Murphy about hosting another Swap Meet and she immediately said Yes. We picked a date, I wrote a post about it and “Bing!” the Swap Meet, potluck is happening: October 5th @2pm.
Follow this link for details. That series of realizations and actualization happened within 24 hours,
and seemed easy. It was like riding a wave.
Within the context of our diversely talented Membership, the formula for “wave riding” could be
as simple as being generous with our abundant resources, observing the whole with curiosity,
and being open to some unexpected connections. As I have gotten to know PNWS Members,
you have all been worth knowing, and you have all brought something unexpected to the group.
Your first step after signing up and filling out your Profile on our website PNWSculptors.org,
is showing up and finding a way to stay connected.
The Swap Meet mentioned above or the upcoming Studio tour Potluck at Greg Wilbur’s house, Sept. 25th @6pm, both would be excellent choices to meet your peers in Pacific Northwest Sculptors.
The ease and synergy “wave riding” happens more frequently with PNWS than any other group I’ve experienced, and I believe it’s from a combination of our strong relationships with each other and our sculpture craft, along with open communication, curiosity and generosity that makes that magic happen.
+++Andy Kennedy Pres. PNWS
Featured image credit:
PNWS Member, Alisa Looney’s piece, Roll & Play onsite at Maryhill museum