“Tell me what you love, and I will tell you who you are.” –Arsène Houssaye
I was interested in trying something different from an ordinary blog. Rather than little old me randomly opining on the state of the world (it’s a mess), the latest book I read (M Train by Patti Smith –excellent), or celery (aka Satan’s dental floss), I wanted to set up a sort of confession album, a 19th-Century practice in which friends asked each other questions, the most famous one being the Proust Questionnaire. For this confession album, I figured what better way to get to know people than to ask them to talk about something they love. And so, here are the questions, with the hopes of learning more about some interesting people and the things that move and shape them. This week, it’s Danny on making things.
What is one thing (object, idea, practice, etc.) that you love?
I love making (mostly artistic) things - the process of visualizing something, figuring out how to create it, and seeing it through to completion.
How did you first come to discover your love of making things? Do you remember?
I don’t - I’ve always liked it. Though I’ve become more realistic about things I can do (write, draw) and things where my skills aren’t up to par (e.g. woodworking).
Do you feel like anyone mentored you when you first discovered this love or in developing your love? If so, who and under what circumstances?
Not really, and I sort of wish someone had because it might have taken me less time to figure out the importance of follow through and methodical effort. I have always had far more ideas than finished projects.
What do you love about it?
I love the process of creating something new and original, and also seeing how the reality manifests - usually somewhat differently than I originally envisioned.
How do you express your love for making things?
By doing it. I don’t really talk about it much, I have too many unfinished things started and never completed. At this point I prefer to share work when it’s either complete or has a concrete plan for completion.
How do you feel making things makes your life better?
The process of creation is intrinsically fulfilling for me.
If someone were interested in discovering more about making things and creation, where would you direct them? Where would they start?
I think having the basic tools is important. For writers, I’d suggest classes both on literature and also on the process of creative writing. For artists, I’d suggest a range of classes on a variety of media so they can see what resonates with them and can expand their toolbox. Whatever the medium of expression, reading/watching/consuming other art/writing is important.