I have a favourite window in my workshop. It’s the one I sit and stare out of when the waves of inspiration are washing over me too quickly to be caught in my little bucket. The natural tones of the facing wall and jarring contrast of the wheelie bins against it, are surprisingly good at dulling the senses.
The uninitiated believe that a constant supply of new brilliant, profitable ideas would be a blessing, but I can assure you it’s more of a curse. Luckily, I am also over-burdened with humility, which is why I’m such a great dinner guest.
That said, I was de-cluttering at the window earlier today and realised that the streaky fog clouding my senses was not the mists of inspiration but rain. And it’s suddenly got chilly.
This has been a pretty tortuous way of getting to the point that the season is changing, 2024 is gently receding in the rearview mirror. We are pretty much at the end of the exhibiting year and now the inevitable “S.A.D.” may start to raise its doleful head. For years this periodic affliction was dismissed but, unfortunately, it’s as real as the A3/M25 junction roadworks.
“Sculptural Absence Discombobulation” is a very real threat to any artist and can lead to some disturbing responses. There are reported cases of solid-fill casts being over-catalysed, working kiln doors being left open whilst away with Patricia and Keith for the long weekend. There was even a rumour that a stone carver decided to chisel herself a drop-curb without council permission.
There is no proven cure for this condition, but the SSS Research and Development team have been beavering away on behalf of the afflicted.
It’s early days but the results from exposure to the Limited Edition are looking very promising. They suggest a quick skim through to whet the appetite; followed by a more concentrated immersion for up to 45 minutes per session. An average of 8 sessions is recommended but recent advice says it’s safe to be repeated until symptoms recede.
In the unlikely event that combobulations are still not forthcoming then I suggest you delve into the growing number of reviews, talks and demos that have been uploaded to our website and You Tube. There’s bound to be one or two you haven’t seen yet. You may even have an idea for a new one – get in touch.
As you re-combobulise, perhaps have a tentative thought about next year. We have new shows confirmed and established favourites are going nowhere.
I’ll just take this chance to thank you all for a great year of sculptural wonder – all the exhibitions have been wonderful and I’m sure we’ll have a fabulous 2025. Just don’t let the SAD get you down.
Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year from me and the Committee.
Nick x