I baked a cake from scratch this week and in the process, I learned something important about why I love making art. One thing that changes everything for me.
I used to love baking but haven’t done much of it in a long time. However, over the holidays I really got into the Great Canadian Baking Show on the CBC. The fact that bragging rights is the only prize seems to make the relationships more sincere and honest. They weren’t competitors as such but simply people with a common love for baking. Even the judges and show hosts exhibit a warmth and kindness that is an antidote to all the negativity and anger out there these days.
Inspired by the show, I looked for something to bake myself. I browsed cookbooks, Pinterest and recipe sites. I savoured the time searching for something special. It’s hard to make plans these days when Covid keeps blowing them up but this was one thing I could plan with confidence, one thing in my control. The process gave my outlook a real lift. (BTW – Click on link below the image if you want the recipe, too. )
After choosing the recipe, I went shopping. I invested in a springform pan and a couple of other tools I was missing and the freshest ingredients. Not rushing the process is a gift whether I’m working in flour, fabric or paint. Taking time to anticipate and choose added to the enjoyment.
When I got home, I made my cake, delighting in the scent of the lemon zest and the colour of blueberries. The warmth of baking filled my kitchen.
Finally, when the cake was done, I shared it with family and friends. I even posted the photo on social media along with the recipe. Because, in the end, seeing someone else enjoy something I make is why I do it. THAT was my big Aha.
I finally get why I love making things. It’s not just painting for me. It’s about making art quilts and needle felting, baking and knitting and just working with my own two hands. I’d been making it hard when really, it’s so easy.
It’s the pleasure of making and the joy others take in what I’ve made that motivates me. Looking back, I can track the journey to this point but it felt like a bolt out of the blue. The business lens that I’d been looking through isn’t right for me.
I’d been struggling with a decision about Instagram. Marketing wisdom said I needed multiple accounts to share these other facets but removing the business mindset provided the answer. Sharing who I am is the common thread.
So you’ll see a slight shift. I will share my art here and on social media but I will also share other things that bring me joy and satisfaction. I won’t be doing a newsletter any longer because I’m ‘retiring’ the business side to follow my heart. If you’d like to follow this journey, you can subscribe to the blog in the sidebar. I’ll be sharing more here.
My wish for you in the coming year is that you find something that warms your heart and gives you deep satisfaction, too.
I enjoyed your post Aprille. It really resonates with me too. I’m very happy for you, that you found this clarity of purpose that is authentically you. Enjoy your new path.
“seeing someone else enjoy something I make is why I do it. THAT was my big Aha” – it’s a rare & wonderful treat to see and feel someone enjoy something you’ve also enjoyed creating! My wife says her cooking & plants are her “painting” & I’m so glad! All the best, Aprille 😊
Hi Felipe. Thanks for dropping by and connecting. You point out something very important. Too often ‘creativity’ is defined as the arts but it’s so much more.
My husband once said he didn’t think he was very creative but he cooks, gardens and builds model railroads. All very creative outlets and, Like you, I’m so glad he does.