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A father and son creation
Groh's case fulfilled one of C&G's core missions: to promote creativity, a trait that often becomes dormant after childhood for many adults. As Picasso is famously quoted for saying, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” Throughout his year creating Tonight's Watercolor, Greenberg often invited his roommates and friends to join him. A typical response was “No thanks; I can't paint.” “Yes, you can,” Greenberg states, “you just don't.” It is a common misconception that some people are born without an artistic aptitude and there is nothing one can do about it. Sure, art seems to come easier for some, but like for anything else, one has to practice. Besides, it does not matter if a person's art is suited for the Louvre or a refrigerator. Greenberg declared, “Give me Kindergarten. A simple 8-color watercolor set and printer paper makes creating less intimidating. I like to paint like I'm 5 again.” Masterpiece or not, the mere act of creating something – anything – has mental and physical benefits. For one, participating in art is a great way to channel energy into a creative focus, ridding one's mind of distractions. Creating as a relaxing activity can serve as therapy in stress management. Further, art is a medium of selfexpression. C&G had its first exhibit at the Daein Market Art Night in October. The wall was open for anyone to share their own art and viewers were invited to literally take the pieces right off the wall. Within a few hours, more than half of the pieces found new owners. Ana Traynin, a Damyang high school teacher, was
Helen Howell Priest gifts a watercolor portrait
one recipient. She remarks, "Create & Gift is a great way to promote the gift economy and Do-ItYourself art. When I picked up a colorful image of hot air balloons and nature, it instantly made me want to create something too." The Daein Gallery proved an interest, so why not encourage more people to participate? Two weeks later, C&G had an interactive booth at the 19th Gwangju International Community (GIC) Day. With provided art supplies, visitors of all ages created dozens of beautiful works to be added to the pool of gifts. The gallery transformed every half hour as art was continually being added and gifted. Not surprisingly, Gwangju boasts some very talented individuals. The creating and gifting really brought the community closer, so C&G looks forward to more events with the Gwangju community. Greenberg reflects on Tonight's Watercolor, “I saw throughout that year how amazing creativity can be if we make that time for ourselves. There were nights when I was completely uninspired. And it showed. Those pieces are terrible! But that is not the point. I am colorblind after all.” Want to get involved? If you are a “non-artist,” try dabbling in different mediums to see which form is most expressive for you. It does not have to be on paper; dance, poetry and theater are certainly also means to also express your creativity. Consider joining the Gwangju Photography Club, Stitch and Bitch (Knitting Club), Gwangju Performance Project or the Artist Collective. And do not be shy to share your creations on the Facebook group at www.CREATEandGIFT.org. All art is welcome. Gwangju News December 2013
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