While taking part in David Walker's class, I was introduced to the book, ‘Marry Your Muse' by Jan Phillips. The ‘Artist's Creed' poem that follows touched my heart, secured my love for creating sacred geometry and healing mandalas and has had a great influence, as a whole, on my work as a fiber artist. It is presented here with the permission of the author for your inspiration, motivation, and possible insight into my work.

The Artist's Creed

I believe I am worth the time it takes
to create whatever I feel called to create.

I believe my work is worthy of its own space
which is worthy of the name Sacred.

I believe that when I enter this space, I have the right
to work in silence, uninterrupted, for as long as I choose.

I believe that the moment I open myself to the gifts of the Muse,
I open myself to the Source of All Creation, and become one
with the Mother of Life itself.

I believe that my work is joyful, useful, and constantly changing,
flowing through me like a river with no beginning and no end.

I believe that what it is I am called to do
will make itself known when I have made myself ready.

I believe that the time I spend creating my art
is as precious as the time I spend giving to others.

I believe that what truly matters in the making of art
is not what the final piece looks like or sounds like,
not what it is worth or not worth,
but what newness gets added to the universe in the
process of the piece itself becoming.

I believe that I am not alone in my attempts to create,
and that once I begin the work, settle into the strangeness,
the words will take shape, the form find life, and the spirit take flight.

I believe that as the Muse gives to me,
so does she deserve from me:
faith, mindfulness, and enduring commitment.

© 2007 Jan Phillips