Being Creative

What Does That Look Like?

Hello friends,

Last weekend, I visited the opening exhibition of The Art of Syd Carpenter at Woodmere in Philadelphia, PA. Though unfamiliar with her work, I was eager to explore since 2026 is my year for curiosity and discovery. Syd Carpenter is a ceramic artist whose work highlights African American life and heritage, land and farming history, and the human body. Her career has lasted over fifty years. I’ve included a link for more information.

I found the presentation especially compelling because her artwork depicted Black farmers. While most of my family members grew up in urban areas, I find it endlessly fascinating to explore the diverse experiences of Black individuals. Her pieces clearly conveyed this inspiration. My favorite works were those featuring clothespins, which symbolized her mother. I could hear her passion as she spoke about each piece. I can only imagine what she must have felt as her hands moved through the clay. As I sat and listened to her presentation, it remin…