An Inner Agitation Seeking Expression

Jodi Lomask shot by Aynur Girgin Westen

One of my clients has a lot of energy. He wants to provide. He wants to give. He wants more vibrancy. I wondered if this was an inability to be at peace within himself. I wondered if he was simply having trouble figuring out how to chill.

And then it dawned on me. This is why I make art and probably why most people make art. It is an inner agitation seeking expression. I spent most of my life only feeling deep peace when I was in production for something. Only when I was making something, in fast motion, did I feel peace.

I made and made and made. Dances, sculptures, films, talks, masterclasses, experiences, retreats, writings. On Tuesday, I worked with my dancers, tech team, and RJ Muna to shoot a dance film. I felt that same energy, excitement, and deep peace as I ran around putting things together.

I wonder what would happen if my client took that energy to the garden, to furniture making, woodwork, a canvas, or any other creative pursuit. Art making is a response to a basic need. A need to give.

Give it.