IC:Innovative Craft Blog

The Idle and Industrious ‘Prentice

Posted Monday 21 July 2008, 10:01am

My home computer faces a set of Hogarth etchings: the Idle and Industrious ‘Prentice.

Feel some sympathy with the last frame of the Idle Prentice as he goes on a cart, through chaos, to certain execution. Next two weeks will undoubtedly feel like this final journey through madness.

Seems impossible that Infirmary Street will be ready. Blind faith, vodka and chocolate are the only way forward. Try to learn from the calm indifference of the house cat. Spend most daylight hours (which in Scotland at this time of year are of course almost continuous) in front of the computer, encouraging, hassling and cajoling to get people and objects in the same place at the same time. Feel that future generations will have specially adapted text/keyboard hands. Like the St Kildans who apparently developed prehensile toes for climbing up cliffs to catch gannets.

Many objects have now arrived. Stunning Japanese work. The awe one feels in front of truly exceptional work. Remember why I do this. Spent the weekend catalogue proofing for Raising the Bar - fabulous design by Lisa at Lawn Creative in Liverpool - endlessly checking and re-checking text.  Think it will look great.  So, there will be a book. And an opening. Checking, re-checking invitation lists.

Hope tomorrow that there may be glass and doors on the new building. See that the efficient Francesca from Dovecot has produced a wonderful task list for the next two weeks which includes the blissful words ‘25th July - Nuala cleans galleries.’ No idea who Nuala is, but I am indebted already.