Sponsored by TWIST - Tablet Weavers International Studies & Techniques Linda said: >> It seems to me that the cycle of change, as history progresses, is: 1. People used to make things because it was part of their culture, they had to, they knew how, they had the time. 2. Technology introduces something which is cheaper to buy, culture changes or erodes, people stop making things. 3. As educational and economic situation improves, people start appreciating things and start making them again either as a hobby or to sell. <<
I agree -- except that so much gets lost in the space between 1. and 3. I shudder to think of a world dominated by cola logos and Nike swooshes instead of intricate patterns that still retain their true ancient cultural meanings. It is possible to recreate and rediscover from extant pieces and those who are more isolated and haven't totally forgotten, but it seems more like an anthropological exercise than an art. As is virtually everyone reading this, I'm in the number 3 category, although to me it's neither a hobby (more like a lifestyle!) nor do I sell my work. I keep expecting a return to the handmade as a backlash against the manufactured but it hasn't really happened, at least since the crafty 1970's. Most people seem too busy with their work (unless they're retired) and their entertainment (clubs, media, sports etc.) to take the time to do anything with their hands. I can't help but imagine how many societal problems would be alleviated by giving young people skills that are creative and positive and take time to do and time to master. Would it keep them out of trouble? Give them a focus for their attention, skills they can be proud of, time that isn't wasted and results they can use? Well, it was a pleasant dream. Now I'm imagining Disney characters on a plastic inkle loom and a Barbie-shaped knitting "nancy". Yikes! LOL!!! There's so much more I want to say about this but I'm having trouble finding the words through the migraine I've got today. I hope others will add to this discussion. Hugs, Louisa Send private reply to Louisa Chadwick <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> ----------------------------------------------------------- To stop receiving tabletweaving (not tabletweaving-digest), send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] with the message: unsubscribe tabletweaving. To stop receiving tabletweaving-digest, see the end of a digest.
