metamorphosis and meaning= transformation or rebirth
I started this blog back in January after many years of fantasizing of starting my own studio. I put blogging aside and even though I have thought over the last 6-7 months about posting here I remained hesitant as I’ve undergone many changes in my life over this period.
At the end of January I lost my job of over 7 years as a senior designer working on custom rug and carpet design. I was shocked, devastated, afraid, excited, angry, hopeful, relieved, worried just to name some of the emotions I have experienced. It is pretty ironic reading back to my early January 1st entry. I will still be exploring this process here but will no longer be doing so anonymously.
I realized pretty quickly that this loss was also a wonderful opportunity to make my own dreams a reality.
Dreams are funny though because sometimes when you come face to face with them you flounder and don’t know where to begin.
I began my metamorphosis by doing a lot of introspection, reading, researching, talking with supportive friends and family and giving myself time to revel in this chance to enjoy my life and recreate it.
As much as I loved moments of my corporate career it had become terribly unsatisfying over the last 2 years as I became bored, unchallenged and lost creative enthusiasm. In hindsight perhaps these were the exact reasons that I lost my job but I also worked very hard and was a loyal employee; something that is becoming more of a novelty in today’s corporate environment.
I decided pretty early on after my job loss that I didn’t want to pursue the same type of career path. I contemplated going into Non-Profit arts, beginning a Non-Profit (which I still aim to do one day), working in a Museum environment or working on a farm. After these ideas of radical change subsided I slowly realized the value in the many years I’ve invested in the world of textile and carpet design. I love so many aspects of design, I love working with clients to create something that evolves from a collaborative vision into a reality.
The process of collaboration is one that I love and am fascinated by. It is something I have explored over the past years as I’ve participated in and organized many collaborative art projects with fellow artist friends. This will be a place for me to share news, sneak peaks, inspiration, and bits of knowledge I will share about this process of launching my dream business.
congratulations. scary can be good. I’m proud of you!
Thanks Melissa, I agree that in sometimes scary can snap you right onto the path of destiny!
As I’m reading this first entry to your new blog, I am printing out the entries I’ve written over the last 18 months on my own blog, recording the experience of starting a studio after losing my textile design job as well. I realize now that just the act of keeping a blog is a dedication to oneself and one’s dreams. You can’t make something real without playing around with what it’s going to look like. It’s sort of like the process of good design. So I support you in getting this little corner of cyberspace up and going for yourself. It’s a really good first step. You will be surprised and proud of what will happen as a result!
Selinde, this has been a dream since I graduated from SCAD. Everything happens for a reason and I am truly glad to hear your supportive words. Thanks!