Martha Graham said...

I've posted this quote before, but it seems a good one for the new year:

"There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium, and (it) will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, nor how it compares with other expression. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly-- to keep the channel open."
                                               ~ Martha Graham

The great dancer and choreographer also said:
"The body says what words cannot."
and
"Dance is the hidden language of the soul."

I believe these thoughts are keys to figurative sculpture, as well.

Comments

[Els]

Thank you for posting this today, I was in dire need of being reminded of my uniqueness. Oft'times a quote can be so helpful in pointing out the obvious. A wee cosmic nudge, if you will.

The first quote also encompasses precisely why I share freely any knowledge of materials, technique, or theory. My spin is mine own...no one can duplicate my expression.

[Melissa]

Your work is phenomenal! What a treat to find you.

[Marilyn Radzat]

Again and always, I am so inspired by your work, Forest.I probably should have asked you first....but I did post a photo of your Eros and a link to your site on That Creative Place blog that I post on. I hope that is okay with you. Wishing you the best.Marilyn Radzat

[Stefania]

I don't know you, dear Forest, but thanks Marilyn for the post on our beautiful blog. I think a body is an expression of an idea, its the symbol of our world, I love the extention of your bodies, I remember El Greco or some Manieristi (??? Manierism, I don't remember the traslation in this moment, search Manierismo, I'm Italian), grazie, Stef

[Lisa Gatz]

Your work is so beautiful! I'm thankful that Marilyn Radzat put a link to your blog and site on our group blog. The expression and lines that you get with your dolls are exquisite!

[julie forsyth]

Thanks once again for the beautiful quote. I'm so inspired and intrigued by your work. I look foward to your posts, here, and to seeing more of your work at the conventions! Love and peace of both mind, body and soul.Julie

[molly]

ah! I so loved dancing the Graham Technique. One of my teachers, Paul Sanassardo was a teacher of mine....

Doris Humphrey, a contemporary of Graham had a quote that always intrigued me. Dance is the arc between two deaths.

[carisa swenson]

Happy New Year, Forest! Thank you for such inspiring words to start 2009 off with.

hugs-Carisa

[Forest]

Well said, Els! And I just went to visit your blog -- a pleasure. The best of the New Year to you and that unforgettable Bird!Forest

[Forest]

Thank you so much, Melissa!!My best to you,Forest

[Forest]

Ah, thank you, Marilyn! I'm honored, and delighted you posted the photo... much appreciated!The very best of the New Year to you and yours,Forest

[Forest]

Thank you, dear Stefania! Ah, my mother always tended to elongate the figure, too,and I know I absorbed that tendency!A most Happy New Year to you,Forest(And oh, I wish I was in Italy right now!)

[Forest]

Thank you so much, Lisa! And you offer so much on your site -- wonderful!My best,Forest

[Forest]

Thank you, Julie! And likewise to you, for a bright New Year!Yours,Forest

[Forest]

Marvelous quote, Molly! Makes one want to create some object to express it, yes?Anon, Friend...Forest

[Forest]

Thanks, Carisa! A most Happy New Year to you too!Yours,Forest