art

Why a dandelion? by Grace Schlitt

My logo is a simplified dandelion seed pod, taken from one of my favorite photos I've ever captured. When I was searching for a symbol for my work - both art and architecture - I kept coming back to this image. And then I realized: I've always loved dandelions.

Here's why.

A dandelion doesn't grip its seeds anxiously, trying to control exactly where they'll land. It creates them with care, then lets go completely. The wind takes over. The seeds land where they land - and that's not a failure, that's the entire point.

Creatively, this is so hard to do. We want to know the outcome before we start. We want guarantees. But the best ideas come when we're loose enough to let them drift and land somewhere surprising.

And here's the other thing: one dandelion makes hundreds of seeds. Not all of them take root. Many land on concrete. Some get eaten by birds. But that abundance is the strategy.

As a creative person, I need that same permission - to generate prolifically, to not precious-guard every single idea, to know that some won't work and that's completely fine.

Whether I'm working on a painting or designing a new kitchen for a client, I let the ideas flow. I plant seeds. Some grow into something beautiful. Others don't. And that's exactly how it should be.

the artists in my life by Grace Schlitt

I’ve just spent this beautiful sunny Sunday, running and painting (see my previous post about those two things   - I’m hoping to do a half marathon this year).  And while I run, or paint, I often listen to the Jealous Curator podcasts.  I highly recommend these for inspiration, art, humor, and learning about all types of creative people. 

Most recently I listened to Danielle and her mom, Judi.   It was a wonderful conversation about Judi’s life in art and made me wish I had my mom to chat with. Or my grandmother or, my great grandmother. They all were practicing artists and fortunately, I surrounded in my home with the beautiful work they made throughout their lives. I also have a few of their art books from art school- including one from my great-grandmother (who I am named after) and it has her fabulous signature. 

I am lucky to have such wonderful art, ephemera and inspiration from these amazing women: Grace Cosgrove Gale, Sarah Gale Barnes, Gale Barnes Schlitt everyday in my life. And even though they never met them, somehow by having their work around I know that they are a part of my children's lives as well. And yes, my daughter, Frances Gale, definitely has a good eye for art and design to carry on the tradition of creativity in our family.