That’s right, we are about 36 days away from the show and I am working hard to create inventory. Over the weekend, okay all day Saturday and Sunday, I worked on the kimono…the “show” piece. I have reached the stage where the initial layer of paper is on it, and the detail work begins. Yes, we have pictures. They will be posted later once I edit them.
Lessons learned:
1. Creating big takes LOTS of energy and can cause a lot of pondering. I am glad I had time to think because my initial idea on how I thought I would execute the idea has turned into a whole other methodology. The calligraphy went they way I planned, just not the paper portion. So allow time to ponder, plan and then change the plan.
2. Collaboration is good AND bad. I had many eyes review my work and lots of feedback on how to do what. It helped me solidify my idea, but it also made me explain the same things over and over. So when asking for feedback, be prepared to get it. And be prepared to explain your plan.
3. I am now working with very small and ornate pieces of paper to create the look of blooming cherry blossom trees. I mean REALLY small pieces of paper. My fingers are not my friends. So, Kevin went back in the workshop and found two pairs of tweezers that Grandpa Roehm’s (his maternal grandfather) and they work perfect. So never underestimate what tool will come in most handy. Sometimes it is the thing that you wonder why it was kept ALL THESE YEARS…and it is the only thing that will do the trick!
4. Be patient with yourself, your idea and your supplies. I have gone through at least six to seven different shades of pink, green, magenta and black to reach this first layer. What you think you will use as you visualize the idea my not be what you ACTUALLY use to create the piece. Having files, drawers and bins of international papers has made it easier to change my mind. I had options and time to review my options. Thank God I bought all that paper in Kyoto in October…whew! It has been a real blessing as this idea unfolds.
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