Living in a Museum

Rick writes:

Maria and I recently had guests visit. After tea and some great conversations, we walked around our home, telling them about all the art that covered the walls (and the woodwork and the furniture and the windows and the . . . you get the idea).

 As they were getting ready to leave, one of our guests asked, “What’s it like to live in a museum?”

My first thought was to say, “Create some art, hang it up, and you will find out for yourself!” 

But I second-guessed myself. Would that come across as too blunt and harsh? So, I answered with something generic like, “It’s wonderful.”

After she left, I thought, “What a missed opportunity!” 

So, with the benefit of hindsight and more time, here is what I could have said. 

"So, this is my challenge to you. 

"First, create something yourself. This is the beauty of the Zentangle Method . . . you discover that it feels great to surround yourself with your creations – like a gardener would feel walking in his garden.

"Second, figure out a way to present it with respect and gratitude. Perhaps you find a beautiful old frame for it. If the frame is damaged, well, you can make that beautiful as well! 

"Third, find a place of honor in your home and hang it up. 

"Repeat. One beautiful creation at a time. 

"Soon enough, you will have the answer to your question, 'What’s it like to live in a museum?'”

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I heard that George Weiss, CZT, displayed his Zentangle art in his home. I asked if he'd share some images from his "museum." I know I had high expectations, but what he sent blew those away. Thank you so much, George!

George writes:

"The value of framing and hanging your Zentangle artwork at home is in its presence as a decorative reminder that you can bring beauty and soul into your daily life – no admission ticket or fee required. You’re the curator and only you can add, remove, and replace each creation ("no mistakes"). Each of them is helping you refurbish your Zentangle house – one picture at a time."

Maria adds:

It was always a dream for me to live in a museum.  I mean . . . really live in one.  Maybe I should have been a docent, visiting the artists as I pleased, guarding the art like it was my job.

But now, here I be, living and loving the dream.  Who knew it was so easy? You just need to dream it and create it, one piece (peace) at a time. (And . . . be willing to have lots of holes in the old walls!)

I find moving them around, from room to room, sometimes turning them 90 or 180 degrees makes me see them in a different light, changing my own perceptions of each piece.

And it’s a great way to entertain visitors.

I highly recommend this way of life. 

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So, dear reader, please tell us in the comments below what it's like to live in your museum! 

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Thank you to everyone who shared your heartfelt stories with us on our last blog, Pulling at My Hearstrings. We have randomly selected commenter Molly Siddoway King to receive a Zentangle surprise. Please send your snail mail address to julie@zentangle.com