By Cheryl Tuttle
Biographical Data
Being a person in recovery has brought many blessings and challenges for me. When my husband became very ill and near death, I realized that it was God who had given me this path because he had also given me the strength and the tools I needed to pick up the pieces and move forward.
It was almost as though I was observing from afar, when I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome and handed some pills with directions to return for frequent future visits. I couldn't believe I was in this place one more time in my life. I remember screaming in a dark lonely car "why me?" Then I remember thinking of these old familiar words, “Why not me?”
I have been an artist all of my life—and what does an artist do under these circumstances? We get creative! I went on a soul searching adventure, slowly picking up the pieces that were left of the life I had known. I created new pieces for the parts that were now missing or broken. My art making became my therapy, my relief from daily stresses and "the woe is me" times. I always say, "some people do therapy and some people make art;” I make art—with a little therapy on the side.
I enjoy working with my hands. I feel a strong connection to the universe when I am being creative, both spiritually and mentally. My work reflects my deepest feelings and emotions. The process itself is the art for me. The finished product is just a bonus.
Sharing my beliefs and knowledge of the Arts also brings me happiness. My husband and I have many collaborative projects. I love him dearly and enjoy his creative spirit, as he is an inspiration to me in my creative process and in my life. We are currently working in metal, ceramics, and glass. Who knows what the future holds. It doesn't really matter as long as I get to create!
Cheryl
Go to RENAISSANCE of the CREATIVE SPIRIT