“Publishing a book is like giving birth. You labor over it and then produce what you thinks the most beautiful thing in the world.” Jordan Silver

“Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” Franz Kafka

Here’s a lovely story about the creative power of beauty from Sarah Baker, Executive Director of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). It was inspired by a visit with Tomie dePaola, a beloved children’s illustrator:

“Today I’m thinking about the last time I saw Tomie dePaola. I was visiting him in his art studio/barn in New Hampshire, and we were getting ready to say goodbye. I had spent the day in quiet awe, roaming around the art studio, looking at the way he arranged his paints, brushes, and markers. I noticed all the special little shelves and corners where he had placed religious, spiritual, and folk art figurines, and a special chair where he liked to meditate. Inside his home, he had pointed out a woven basket on the floor of his bedroom that was brimming with colorful scarves, each knotted up the same perfect way.

“As I got on my coat, Tomie told me something he learned from his former teacher and mentor, Ben Shahn. He told me that being an artist isn’t just about the ‘art’ you create on paper or canvas. To be an artist, you must live your whole life as an artist. Try to find beauty and inspiration in everything you do. When you cook, when you get dressed, when you arrange your nightstand. If you make and discover beauty all around you, you will always have the inspiration to create.”

What a sweet story and what wonderful advice: “live your whole life as an artist,” by finding beauty and inspiration everywhere and in everything. This story reminds me of a graphic designer I once worked with, Tomas Gonda. He was an artist in every way. I used to love visiting his studio on 23rd Street in Chelsea. Every object, every piece of furniture was artfully arranged. He created art from everything—even by hanging four beautiful, handmade brushes in a row. He was constantly re-envisioning his world to make it more beautiful and harmonious—for himself and everyone around him.

I love the idea the if we “make and discover beauty,” we will always find “the inspiration to create.” What hopeful, helpful advice! Let beauty beckon you and your creative well will always be full. Write on!

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