50+ Lifestyles

PUBLISHER’S CORNER – Don’t Stifle Your Creativity

By Eloise Graham

How many of you remember Archie Bunker always telling Edith to, “Stifle it!” when she would come up with an idea or solution? How many of you remember Archie Bunker always telling Edith to, “Stifle it!” when she would come up with an idea or solution?

Well, I am going to tell you NOT to stifle your creativity, embrace it! Being creative will help your physical as well as your mental well-being. You will age more gracefully and productively. Just like your body needs to stay active your mind does too. Don’t just sit down to card games, board games or puzzles, get creative as well. Try writing short stories or memoirs. Take a stab at poetry.

If you read Max’s Muse in this publication, you will see that poetry is more than just the rhyming “Roses are red, violets are blue…” type of literature. Poetry can be free flowing, non-rhyming, but it has a pulse and a rhythm. Also notice that in poetry many of the grammar rules can be bent or maybe down right broken. It paints a picture with words.

Painting is another excellent creative outlet. Take a class and see what happens! The FIgge offers a wide variety of classes and instruction. September 7 they will be offering a class on print-making. Repurposed as well as new materials will be used to create a one-of-a-kind print. Contact Heather at haaronson@figgeartmuseum.org or (563) 345-6630 to get a full listing of classes and events. CASI, the Center for Active Seniors, Inc, also offers painting and drawing classes. Some are only a couple hours to complete a project or the Bob Ross painting class is most of the day. Check out the listing in this issue’s Calendar of Events or call CASI at (563) 386-7477.

Ceramics creates a three dimensional work or art as well as painting and choosing the colors. CASI offers instruction at three different class times, Monday, Tuesday and Friday. Pictured are a couple of completed pieces. Flower arranging is another avenue to stretch your creativity. Both of the great botanical places in our Quad Cities occasionally offer class instruction on floral arrangements. Contact information for Vander Veer Botanical Park, located in Davenport, is (563) 326-7818 or www.friendsofvanderveer.com. The Quad City Botanical Center, located in Rock Island, is www.qcgardens.com or (309) 794-0991. There are also tutorials and instructions offered on line.

One mustn’t forget the art of textiles! Quilting is gaining popularity. Start simple with a table runner or placemats, or go all out with the bedspread/comforter and matching pillow shams. Crocheting and knitting are also great ways to get those creative juices flowing. Simple scarves are easy to do.  Just remember, don’t stifle your creativity! Keep active physically, mentally and creatively.