how can something so heavy be so light? Richard Serra's RIP

Richard Serra, Sculptor

Jeffrey Brown from the PBS NewsHour, Transcript by Daniel G. Hill.

RS: “A list of verbs. To cut, to roll, to form, to curve, to lean, to prop.”

JB: “And what was the idea?”

RS: “Just to take a material and in relation to a procedure, see what would happen. Now you could go through a lot of variations… Let me show you one. If you look at a piece like this, one of the verbs was called “To Lift.” I had a piece of rubber and it was about maybe eight or ten feet long. It was about four feet wide. I took it on its edge and I simply lifted it up. And I wondered if that was enough to sustain itself as a work of art. And because it had a continuous inside and outside surface and it free-stood and it really was an exposition of the activity of lifting, I thought that I can put my name on that. I wanted to really invent my own procedures for making what I thought could be considered a work of art.”

…

RS: I think what artists do and they’ll continue to do is they invent their own procedures. Because if you’re going to use the tools of another master, you’re never going to be able to deconstruct his house. You’re not going to be able to use the same tools if you're going to do your own original work. And I think every generation has to find its own tools and own procedures. And I think what’s interesting about art is that unexpected youth will take it somewhere else.

…

RS: This is how it begins. It always begins with models. And what we try to do, what we’re really involved with is invention of form and experimenting with form. And that’s what I’ve always been involved with.

Gratitude and Apricots

Naturally, I tend to have negative thoughts. To deal with this, I’ve found that gratitude works wonders for me. When I shift gears into a grateful mindset, I regain strength, and it feels like the wind returns to my sails.

For my kids, I introduced this practice as the Mishmishim Game. On one of my birthdays, Nina made me an album of songs she knows I love and called it Mishmishim. You can listen to it on SoundCloud here.

https://soundcloud.com/nina-gat-35060891/sets/mishmishim

Mishmish means apricot in Hebrew.

Imagine a plate of mishmishim in front of you. The goal is to “eat” ten of them by expressing gratitude for ten things. Here’s my plate for today:

1. I’m grateful for this blog.

2. I met some really nice people last night.

3. I finally have space in my closet to store my work.

4. My house is organized. I may be behind on about 100 other things, but at least I know what they are!

5. I can’t believe that 15 years after creating Home, Work, Self, it’s still thriving and evolving.

6. Each of my kids seems to be doing great, and I’m so proud of them.

7. Since the war in Israel began, I’ve met so many kind and wonderful people.

8. I’m at peace with how my studio work is progressing.

9. I think I’ve finally reached a stage in my life where I can dedicate more time to making books.

10. I’m turning 55 in two weeks, and I’m totally okay with it.

Best painters cinema

Usually, I feel embarrassed by how painters are represented in cinema, but I promised myself I’d watch at least ten films about this work I’ve been doing all my life. It should be possible, right?

Let’s give it a try:

1. Lust for Life (1956)

   Directed by Vincente Minnelli, this film stars Kirk Douglas as Vincent van Gogh and focuses on the turbulent life and artistic genius of the Dutch post-impressionist painter.

2. Basquiat (1996)

   Directed by Julian Schnabel, this biographical drama follows the life of Jean-Michel Basquiat, a graffiti artist turned neo-expressionist painter, played by Jeffrey Wright.

3. Frida (2002)

   Directed by Julie Taymor, this biographical drama stars Salma Hayek as Mexican surrealist painter Frida Kahlo, depicting her tumultuous relationship with fellow artist Diego Rivera, played by Alfred Molina.

4. Pollock (2000)

   Directed by and starring Ed Harris, this biographical film chronicles the life of American abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock, focusing on his artistic breakthroughs and personal struggles.

5. Mr. Turner (2014)

   Directed by Mike Leigh, this biographical drama stars Timothy Spall as J.M.W. Turner, the eccentric and innovative British painter known for his landscapes and seascapes.

6. Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)

   Directed by Peter Webber, this historical drama is based on Tracy Chevalier's novel of the same name and imagines the creation of Johannes Vermeer's famous painting, with Scarlett Johansson portraying the titular girl.

7. Camille Claudel (1988)

   Directed by Bruno Nuytten, this biographical drama focuses on the life of French sculptor Camille Claudel, played by Isabelle Adjani, and her relationship with sculptor Auguste Rodin, played by Gérard Depardieu.

8. Caravaggio (1986)

   Directed by Derek Jarman, this biographical drama explores the life and art of Italian Baroque painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, known for his dramatic use of light and shadow.

9. Vincent & Theo (1990)

   Directed by Robert Altman, this biographical drama examines the complex relationship between Vincent van Gogh (played by Tim Roth) and his brother Theo (played by Paul Rhys), who supported him financially and emotionally.

10. Seraphine (2008)

    Directed by Martin Provost, this French-Belgian biographical film tells the story of Seraphine de Senlis, a housekeeper and self-taught painter whose talent was discovered by German art critic Wilhelm Uhde, played by Ulrich Tukur.

Best tiny house designs

The best tiny house designs often combine functionality, efficiency, and creativity to maximize space and comfort within a small footprint. Here are some popular tiny house designs that are highly regarded:

1. The Tumbleweed Cypress: Tumbleweed Tiny House Company offers various models, but the Cypress is particularly popular for its efficient layout and customizable options. It features a loft bedroom, a full kitchen, a bathroom, and a living area, all within a compact design. More about the Cypress

2. The Escape Traveler: Escape Traveler offers tiny houses on wheels that are well-designed and built for mobility. Their models often feature modern interiors, full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping lofts, with optional upgrades such as solar panels and high-end finishes. More about the Traveler

3. The Minim House: The Minim House is known for its sleek and modern design, with a focus on maximizing space and functionality. It features a fold-down deck, a loft bedroom, a full kitchen, and a bathroom, all within a minimalist aesthetic. More about Minim House

4. The Bungalow by Tiny Heirloom: The Bungalow model by Tiny Heirloom offers a spacious interior with high ceilings and ample storage. It features a full kitchen, a bathroom with a shower, a sleeping loft, and a living area that can accommodate a sofa or additional sleeping space. More about The Bungalow

5. The Vardo by Rocky Mountain Tiny Houses: The Vardo is a unique tiny house design inspired by traditional Romani wagons. It features a curved roof, a cozy interior with a sleeping loft, a kitchenette, and a bathroom. Its whimsical design and attention to detail make it a standout option. More about The Vardo

6. The Pod by Tiny House Scotland: The Pod is a compact and energy-efficient tiny house design that emphasizes sustainability and off-grid living. It features a curved roof for rainwater collection, solar panels for electricity, and a composting toilet. Despite its small size, it offers a comfortable living space with a kitchenette, a sleeping loft, and a bathroom. More about The Pod

7. The Modern Tiny Living THOW: Modern Tiny Living offers a range of tiny house designs, including models with sleek, contemporary aesthetics. These designs often feature open floor plans, high ceilings, large windows for natural light, and modern finishes. More about Modern Tiny Living

8. The NestPod by Tiny House UK: The NestPod is a compact and lightweight tiny house design that can be towed by a car. It features a modular interior layout with customizable options, including a kitchenette, a bathroom, and a sleeping area. More about The NestPod

Real estate strategies for Artists

For artists looking to invest in real estate, the strategies often revolve around maximizing both their living and creative spaces. Here are some key real estate strategies that can help artists achieve financial and creative freedom:

1. Live-Work Spaces
   A live-work space allows artists to both live and create art in one place. This setup can save time, provide convenience, and make art creation more accessible. Such spaces are often affordable, combining the cost of housing with the functionality of a studio.
   Learn more about Live-Work Spaces

2. Creative Financing
   Since artists may have irregular income, exploring creative financing options like low-down-payment loans or artist-specific financing programs can make purchasing property more feasible.
   Explore Creative Financing for Artists

3. Community Development
   Investing in up-and-coming neighborhoods offers the chance to contribute to the local arts scene while potentially benefiting from property appreciation over time.
   How to Invest in Creative Communities

4. Rental Income
   Rental properties can be a passive income source for artists. Investing in multi-unit buildings or renting out parts of their own property can help artists sustain their practice financially.
   Learn about Rental Income Strategies

5. Artist Residencies
   While not a long-term real estate investment, artist residencies provide valuable opportunities for creative growth, exposure, and networking. Many residencies offer unique living and working spaces.
   Find Artist Residencies

6. Cooperative Housing
   Cooperative housing allows residents to collectively own and manage a property, fostering a sense of community and providing financial benefits over traditional homeownership.
   Understanding Cooperative Housing

7. Home Equity Loans
   For artists who own property, home equity loans can be a way to fund projects, exhibitions, or art-related endeavors by leveraging the value of their homes.
   How to Use Home Equity for Investments

8. Investing in Studio Space
   For many artists, having dedicated studio space is essential. Whether purchasing or renting, studio space offers a productive environment for creativity and making art.
   Investing in Studio Space

9. Artistic Districts
   Investing in properties located in artistic districts provides artists with access to resources, networking opportunities, and a supportive community.
   Investing in Artistic Districts

10. Long-Term Planning
    Artists should think long-term when making real estate decisions, aligning their investments with their artistic goals and financial aspirations. Seeking professional financial advice can help in this process.
    Real Estate Planning for Artists

By combining smart real estate strategies and innovative tiny house designs, artists can enhance their creative work and financial stability. Whether you’re looking for an affordable live-work space or seeking long-term investments to fund your art practice, these strategies and designs offer multiple pathways to success.

Affiliation programs for creatives

This is something I promised myself I will research and learn.

I'm just not there yet, but hopefully this year:

1. Creative Market: A marketplace for digital assets such as graphics, fonts, templates, and themes. Affiliates can earn a commission for promoting Creative Market products to their audience of designers, artists, and creatives.
   Learn more about Creative Market

2. Etsy Affiliate Program: Etsy is a popular platform for buying and selling handmade and unique items. Affiliates can earn commissions by promoting products from Etsy sellers, including art, crafts, jewelry, and home decor.
   Explore Etsy Affiliate Program

3. Adobe Affiliate Program: Adobe offers a range of creative software products, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro. Affiliates can earn commissions for promoting Adobe Creative Cloud subscriptions and individual software products to their audience of designers, photographers, and videographers.
   Check out Adobe Affiliate Program

4. Skillshare Affiliate Program: Skillshare is an online learning platform with courses on a variety of creative topics, including design, illustration, photography, and writing. Affiliates can earn commissions for referring new subscribers to Skillshare's premium membership.
   Explore Skillshare Affiliate Program

5. Blurb Affiliate Program: Blurb is a self-publishing platform that allows creatives to design and publish their own books, magazines, and ebooks. Affiliates can earn commissions for promoting Blurb's services to authors, artists, and photographers.
   Find out about Blurb Affiliate Program

6. Redbubble Affiliate Program: Redbubble is a print-on-demand marketplace where artists can sell their designs on a variety of products, including clothing, home decor, and accessories. Affiliates can earn commissions for promoting products from Redbubble artists to their audience.
   Learn more about Redbubble Affiliate Program

7. Society6 Affiliate Program: Similar to Redbubble, Society6 is a platform for artists to sell their designs on various products. Affiliates can earn commissions for promoting Society6 products, including art prints, home decor, and tech accessories.
   Explore Society6 Affiliate Program

8. Canva Affiliate Program: Canva is a graphic design platform that offers easy-to-use tools for creating graphics, presentations, and social media posts. Affiliates can earn commissions for referring new Canva Pro subscribers.
   Learn about Canva Affiliate Program

9. Envato Market Affiliate Program: Envato Market is a marketplace for digital assets, including themes, templates, and stock photos. Affiliates can earn commissions for promoting Envato Market products to their audience of designers, developers, and creatives.
   Discover Envato Market Affiliate Program

10. Wix Affiliate Program: Wix is a website builder platform that offers templates and tools for creating professional-looking websites. Affiliates can earn commissions for referring new Wix users to their platform.
    Explore Wix Affiliate Program

When choosing affiliate programs for your creative blog, consider the relevance of the products or services to your audience, the commission rates and payment terms, and the reputation and track record of the affiliate program. Additionally, it's essential to disclose your affiliate relationships transparently to your audience in compliance with FTC guidelines.

Best Israeli authors

I used to love reading before I became a mom, and I'm still hoping it will come back to me now that my kids are all grown up.

Israel has produced many talented and influential authors whose works span a wide range of genres, styles, and themes. Here are some of the best Israeli authors, known for their significant contributions to literature:

1. Amos Oz (1939-2018) - A celebrated novelist, essayist, and peace activist, known for works such as My Michael, A Tale of Love and Darkness, and Black Box.

2. David Grossman (b. 1954) - An award-winning author known for his powerful novels exploring themes of war, politics, and human relationships, including To the End of the Land, See Under: Love, and Falling Out of Time.

3. A.B. Yehoshua (b. 1936) - A prominent novelist and essayist, known for works such as Mr. Mani, A Woman in Jerusalem, and The Lover.

4. Etgar Keret (b. 1967) - A celebrated short story writer known for his surreal, absurdist style and dark humor, with works including The Bus Driver Who Wanted to Be God, Suddenly, a Knock on the Door, and The Girl on the Fridge.

5. Meir Shalev (b. 1948) - An acclaimed novelist and children's author known for his vivid storytelling and deep connection to the Israeli landscape, with works such as A Pigeon and a Boy, My Russian Grandmother and Her American Vacuum Cleaner, and The Blue Mountain.

6. Yehuda Amichai (1924-2000) - One of Israel's most beloved poets, known for his evocative, lyrical verse that explores themes of love, war, and the human condition, with collections including A Time of Love and of War, The Selected Poetry of Yehuda Amichai, and Open Closed Open.

7. S.Y. Agnon (1888-1970) - A Nobel Prize-winning author known for his richly textured novels and short stories that capture the complexity of Jewish life in Eastern Europe and Israel, with works such as The Bridal Canopy, Only Yesterday, and A Simple Story.

8. Orly Castel-Bloom (b. 1960) - A groundbreaking novelist known for her bold, experimental style and darkly humorous exploration of contemporary Israeli society, with works including Dolly City, Human Parts, and An Egyptian Novel.

9. Sayed Kashua (b. 1975) - An Arab-Israeli author and journalist known for his insightful, often satirical novels and essays that explore the complexities of identity, culture, and coexistence in Israel, with works such as Dancing Arabs, Let It Be Morning, and Second Person Singular.

10. Yoram Kaniuk (1930-2013) - A prolific author known for his inventive storytelling and exploration of Jewish identity and history, with works including Adam Resurrected, 1948, and Life on Sandpaper.

These authors represent just a few of the many talented voices in Israeli literature, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Israeli culture and storytelling.

Best freedom quotes

"Of Human Freedom" by Epictetus is a Stoic philosophical text that explores the concept of freedom and the role of personal agency in living a virtuous life. Here are some of the best quotes from Epictetus' "Of Human Freedom":

1. "Freedom is the only worthy goal in life. It is won by disregarding things that lie beyond our control."

2. "No man is free who is not a master of himself."

3. "Freedom is not procured by a full enjoyment of what is desired, but by controlling the desire."

4. "It is not death or pain that is to be dreaded, but the fear of pain or death."

5. "Some things are in our control and others not. Things in our control are opinion, pursuit, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever are our own actions. Things not in our control are body, property, reputation, command, and, in one word, whatever are not our own actions."

6. "He is free who lives as he likes; who is not subject to compulsion, to restraint, or to violence; whose pursuits are unhindered, his desires successful, his aversions unincurred."

7. "The only freedom you truly have is the freedom of thought, and anyone can exercise that."

8. "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts."

9. "If you wish to be free, make yourself free. For as you will allow no man to hinder you from being chaste, so be not hindered to live as free a life as you will."

10. "Freedom is the name of virtue; slavery, of vice."

These quotes encapsulate Epictetus' teachings on the nature of freedom, emphasizing the importance of inner mastery, self-discipline, and aligning one's desires with reason. They remind us that true freedom lies in our ability to control our thoughts, emotions, and actions, regardless of external circumstances.

Can Bitcoin be beneficial for creatives?

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies can be utilized by creatives in various ways. Here are some potential ways:

1. Accepting Bitcoin Payments Creatives, such as artists, writers, musicians, and designers, can accept Bitcoin as payment for their goods or services. This can provide an additional revenue stream and potentially reach a global audience without the need for traditional banking systems. Learn more about accepting Bitcoin.

2. Crowdfunding and Patronage Bitcoin can be used for crowdfunding campaigns or patronage of creative projects. Platforms like Patreon and Bitbacker allow supporters to contribute Bitcoin to artists and creators they admire, providing financial support for their work.

3. Digital Art and NFTs Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have gained popularity in the digital art world, allowing artists to tokenize their digital creations and sell them as unique digital assets on blockchain platforms. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies can be used to purchase NFTs, providing a new avenue for artists to monetize their digital artwork. Learn more about NFTs.

4. Decentralized Platforms Some decentralized platforms and marketplaces, built on blockchain technology, enable creatives to sell their work directly to consumers without intermediaries. These platforms often use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for transactions, providing artists with greater control over their work and earnings. Check out decentralized marketplaces.

5. Microtransactions and Tips Bitcoin can facilitate microtransactions and tips for digital content creators, such as bloggers, podcasters, and YouTubers. Platforms like BitTube and Tippin.me allow users to send small amounts of Bitcoin as tips or donations to support content creators they enjoy.

6. Smart Contracts and Royalties Smart contracts on blockchain platforms can automate royalty payments for creatives, ensuring that artists receive fair compensation for the use of their work. This can be particularly beneficial for musicians, authors, and other creators who rely on royalties for ongoing income. Explore smart contracts.

7. Global Accessibility Bitcoin provides a borderless and censorship-resistant means of transacting value, allowing creatives to reach audiences and customers worldwide. This can be especially advantageous for artists in countries with restrictive financial systems or limited access to traditional banking services. Learn more about Bitcoin's global reach.

8. Investment and Savings Creatives can use Bitcoin as a long-term investment or savings vehicle, potentially benefiting from its store of value properties and potential for price appreciation over time. Some artists and creators choose to allocate a portion of their earnings to Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation or economic uncertainty. Read about Bitcoin as an investment.

Overall, Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies offer creatives a range of opportunities to monetize their work, engage with their audience, and navigate the evolving landscape of digital commerce and finance. As with any financial decision, it's essential for creatives to conduct thorough research and consider their individual circumstances before integrating Bitcoin into their practice.

Creating a creative life

Creating a creative life is about looking at everything around you as an open question, and a practice:

1. Embrace Curiosity: Cultivate a mindset of curiosity and wonder. Stay open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. Ask questions, explore, and seek out inspiration from various sources. Learn more about curiosity and creativity.

2. Nurture Your Passion: Identify your passions and interests, and make time for them in your daily life. Whether it's painting, writing, gardening, cooking, or any other creative pursuit, dedicate time and energy to what brings you joy. Explore how to nurture your passions.

3. Cultivate Creativity Daily: Set aside time each day for creative activities. This could be as simple as keeping a journal, doodling, taking photographs, or experimenting with new recipes. Consistent practice nurtures creativity and helps you hone your skills. Discover creative habits.

4. Surround Yourself with Inspiration: Create an environment that stimulates creativity. Surround yourself with art, books, music, and nature. Visit museums, attend concerts, and immerse yourself in cultural experiences that ignite your imagination. Find inspiration around you.

5. Embrace Failure and Risk: Understand that failure is a natural part of the creative process. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things, even if it means making mistakes along the way. Use setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Read more on embracing failure.

6. Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness to enhance your awareness and presence in the moment. Pay attention to your surroundings, engage your senses, and savor the beauty and richness of everyday experiences. Learn mindfulness techniques.

7. Collaborate and Connect: Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow creatives. Collaborate on projects, share ideas, and seek feedback. Building connections with others fosters inspiration, creativity, and mutual growth. How to collaborate creatively.

8. Prioritize Self-Care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Nurture yourself through adequate rest, healthy habits, and activities that replenish your energy and creativity. Explore self-care for creatives.

9. Set Goals and Take Action: Define your creative goals and aspirations. Break them down into manageable steps and take consistent action towards achieving them. Celebrate your progress and milestones along the way. Tips for setting creative goals.

10. Stay Flexible and Adapt: Be open to change and adaptability. Creativity thrives in environments that allow for flexibility and experimentation. Embrace uncertainty and view challenges as opportunities for innovation and growth. Read more on adaptability and creativity.

Remember that creating a creative life is an ongoing journey of self-discovery, exploration, and expression. Find what resonates with you personally and incorporate it into your daily practices. Let your creativity be a guiding force in shaping a life that is vibrant, fulfilling, and uniquely yours.