Saturday, January 29, 2011

Our harshest critics

Why are we our own harshest critics? What makes us quilters so judgemental about our work and ourselves? I can't tell you how many times, when I've complimented someone on a quilt, that the maker has quickly pointed out supposed faults or mistakes. I think one reason may be that we have it in our heads that our foremothers made only the most perfect quilts, and that we'll never live up to those high standards. But have a good look at some antique quilts which aren't in museums, magazines or books. Look at the family quilts Aunt Betty made. Are they really beautiful? Probably. Are they examples of perfection? Most likely not.
Do artists in who work in other mediums do this? No, not really.
So get over it! Enjoy the process. Accept the adulation. And keep on quilting.

1 comment:

  1. I quite agree. One must learn to smile and say, "Thank you." All people, not just artists, are generally incapable of graciously accepting compliments.
    mj

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