| Earlier today, I was visiting the beautiful Forbidden City exhibition at the Art Gallery of Vancouver where lots of Chinese art and objects from the imperial court are exhibited. Going from one room to another, I grew more and more amazed at the details, the refinement of some of these items. While looking at the treasure boxes or the ceramic dishes, I couldn't help but wonder: how come we don't see objects that well-made anymore? Well, it wouldn't be entirely true as some contemporary artisans still create amazing objects. But who would still be willing to spend hours and hours carving a landscape on the side of a brush holder, or creating vegetal patterns with cloisonne enamel? These objects were designed for emperors and empresses so it is no surprise that they are so incredibly beautiful. Still, I was thinking: in a few centuries, what objects will be left of the 21st century? Will people marvel at them the way I did today at the exhibition? |  Forbidden City at the Vancouver Art Gallery by Montecristo Magazine |
And so it made me think even more: what if, as craftspersons, we focus more on the process, instead of on the final object? Is creating objects like a spiritual journey where we keep trying and trying until we master our craft? Or is it something else? If the final object matters more, is it about aesthetics, function...? Why do we create, what is our goal? Each of us has a different answer for these questions and that is exactly what makes it so interesting. But whatever the answers are, I believe creating objects is a privilege and we can't just create for the sake of creating, which is why we should take the time to think about what truly matters.
On the same topic, I highly recommend having a look at NeoCraft: Modernity And The Craft by Sandra Alfoldy. I have been reading this book lately and it is full of interesting essays, questioning crafts, technologies, design and art. While it is mainly about the recognition of crafts, it provides interesting insights on what it is to be a craftsperson today and you will probably have dozens of questions popping in your head while reading it!
On the same topic, I highly recommend having a look at NeoCraft: Modernity And The Craft by Sandra Alfoldy. I have been reading this book lately and it is full of interesting essays, questioning crafts, technologies, design and art. While it is mainly about the recognition of crafts, it provides interesting insights on what it is to be a craftsperson today and you will probably have dozens of questions popping in your head while reading it!