Art in the Park Inspiration

Today was one of my favorite days in Boise - Art in the Park! It's been going on for 30 years, so it brings together the northwest's best artists. There were booths and booths of paintings, photography, jewelry, metalwork, pottery, and beautiful creations. The sun decided to make a showing again and gave us nice 80 degree weather. Now, I'm a little beaten down from hours of shopping, sun and pushing through crowds. But, more than anything, I'm inspired by people's innovation, talent and creative pursuits.

a mirror and some earrings my mom bought

Kashi and Burts Bees have partnered up to make positive changes in communities, and the first thing we did was stop at their "Day of Change" booth. Tons of people were getting free bags and free samples, so of course I was interested. We were handed a passport which enabled us to go to each booth and get a stamp. At the first booth, I learned more about Burt's Bees company and my hands got a silky smooth treatment from sample lotions. The next booth was a delectable haven of free Kashi cookies, bars and cereal complete with Silk soy milk. Booth number 3 was all about the companies' progressive ideas and accomplishments. I learned that Burt's Bees achieved zero waste last year! That is so impressive and makes me so proud of our world! Things are looking up! Then my mom and I waited in line to fill out info and score our free bag of goodies. How awesome! I would love to work for such revolutionary companies! I asked about employment but found out there is no Kashi or Burts Bees office here, and I'd have to go to San Diego.....I'm still considering it though. I was thrilled by this event.



Another thing I really fell in love with today were these art pieces called "guardians". Here is the artist's description of them:

"The Guardians rose out at the ashes of September 11th. My family donated to the relief effort in New York & decided that we would make gifts that would fit in a Christmas stocking. I began making them with my son, Paul, who was eight at the time. Our goal was to use recycled components to create angels that would have personalities & powers to protect & honor loved ones. They were long & skinny & fit in the top of a stocking. Friends saw them & asked how they could get one. Soon "Guardians" were born & they have grown from 6" to over six feet. They are created out of familiar, recycled, household items & are designed to hang on the wall. The paint brushes I use are worn ones from the public schools. I trade new brushes for their old ones for the arms & legs. (I am always looking for components, so keep me in mind when you clean out your garage!) They are a delight to create & I find that as I am working they take on a life of their own. My hope is that they bring a smile to your face and that they are a vehicle for sharing hope and laughter, honor and friendship, protection and love."

Celebration Guardian--
Mixed media with level, African trade beads, yardstick and casters. $385.00. sold

The guardians were all gorgeous, intricate and so diverse. Each came with a hand-written description of it's personality and powers. She gave old normally discarded things a beautiful new life. Click on this link to see more. They were very expensive as they are time consuming to make and constructed of many antique parts. Since we couldn't buy one, my mom and I decided to use the idea as inspiration and start making our own art. I'm excited and hope we really do it.

There were so many beautiful things at the park today - so many artists that had creative vision and went for it. I'm inspired and motivated by their beautiful work and courage!

a few of the things we bought today :)