Rekindling the Fire

When my son was in Rome during a college semester abroad, he photographed this bit of street art (right) - printing and framing it as a gift of inspiration for me, soon after his return. As a creative himself, he believed that I’d appreciate the message, which of course, I absolutely did, and do. Now mounted above my office desk, It serves as a daily reminder of the joy I’ve always found when I could create, for pure pleasure and personal satisfaction. Over the years, and as my career heated up and long work days became the norm, I drifted from the making of art for myself, as every work day filled with client obligations and deadlines, occupying my time with needed tactical problem solving for others. Earning a solid living while providing for a growing family gave me the satisfaction I needed, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

After opening the studio in 1993, I made a promise to myself that when I could, I'd eventually return to personal expression as time allowed. The years have passed rapidly, and 2022 marked 42, very fruitful years in this field, and 28 years of self-employed independence, serving a range of quality clients in the manner I’m accustomed to, as a commercial creative. I’m humbled and grateful to have met, and collaborated with many talented professionals, learning from and befriending many of them along the way. Right to the end, creative problem solving for clients or for myself has been as energizing in my 60’s as it was when I was in my 20’s.

In January of 2022, I closed my design studio, letting my loyal clients know that enough was enough. I gave notice to every active client, assisting them with the transition, and providing ample time to find alternative agencies and studios. I completed all outstanding and ongoing projects, and said my goodbyes. I was done. Proudly, over my entire career, I never had to seek out a client. They all came to me, and what started with most as purely professional relationships, became in most cases, long-lasting friendships.

Today, a return to personal work is fueling a fire and filling a void that I had previously chosen to ignore for the aforementioned reasons, up until I received this motivational nudge from my son. Thank you, James, most sincerely. You have always been extraordinarily intuitive of others, and I am grateful to you for turning that talent in my direction, helping to inspire me as I again pursue artistic self-expression for the pure joy of doing so.

For now, let me leave you with yet another inspirational message - one that I have referenced often, over the years. Yes, it is spiritual, as was its author, but regardless of what you believe or who your God may or may not be, I suggest that you let it wash over you, as I often do: 

“If you want to get warm you must stand near the fire: if you want to be wet you must get into the water. If you want joy, power, peace, eternal life, you must get close to, or even into, the thing that has them.”   -  C. S. Lewis

Whatever your ambitions, may you stand near the fire that feeds your soul.

- Jim Revised December, 2024

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