Elaine here. Before I was invited to work with the ShapeShifter Team, I did not consider myself an artist. I have no formal training, and that felt intimidating. And, not being one to shy away from a challenge, I embraced the opportunity of what lives in the space of infinite possibility.
As the Program Coordinator at ShapeShifter, I spend much of my time on the computer, planning on the whiteboard, and creating structure behind the scenes. Being able to participate in classes has been the icing on the cake. I admit, I was intimidated to try something new, and my curiosity led me through several classroom doors. My curiosity has gotten me into trouble before, and this time it’s been a good kind of trouble.
In this first month of classes, I have learned that drawing isn't about perfection. It's about imagination and connection, music and laughter. I've learned that when I brush water on paper and add watercolor, I get the most beautiful combination of colors flowing together to create flowers that "don't look like flowers," yet are more magical as they bloom on the paper. I've learned to make otherworldly collages with 3D elements as a new language of love.
And I have been embraced by a community of fantastic, creative, and curious humans.
I used to introduce myself with, "I am not an artist, I just do the things around here," and with the encouragement of the founders and teachers, I’ve let go of that story over the past few weeks.
I invite you to browse our classes and workshops, come by for a visit, and be brave - try something new. If that voice inside you says, "You can't draw" or "You are too old to learn to sew," let your curiosity lead, come out to play and join us. It may change your life.
We look forward to creating with you!
(A few of my class creations- thank you wonderful teachers!)
