What is an Artist? “An artist is a person engaged in one or more of any of a broad spectrum of activities related to creating art, practicing the arts, and/or demonstrating an art.
To be artistic is to be open to all that is around you. To see things that others cannot and help them to see it through your eyes.
We recently read a brilliant post by Amy Sundberg which we will be leaving the link to and recommend you read her view-point of what it means to be an Artist.
For us, it’s been a way of life passed down from one generation to the next. We seem to have a plethora of artists on both sides of my family. And although the art has varied in degree’s, changed a bit in styles and ventured to new avenues, most all our family have had their hand in the artistic well in one form or another and drank from it freely.
We have/had writers, journalists, painters, seamstresses (quilting, crocheting), photographers, sketch artists and MUSICIANS; a slew of musicians. When my mother and father married they united two families of musicians giving us abundance. And not just musicians who play for the love of playing; more than five of them made a living out of it my father included.
ARTISTC EVOLUTION:
Of course new generations bring with them new ideas and passion for what their art would and could be. Coming from the Dirty South, the elders (my great grandparents: Kenny and Jackie) of our family had a deep love for Blue grass and country. So there was never a shortage of this.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7I6F4Hnt9k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-wJNpWgss8
But then my grandparents (Poppa and Nana) who grew up in the 1950’s loved their era of music so we loved rockin’ around the clock as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9r2pEdc1_lI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj0Rz-uP4Mk
The younger family members were introduced to another style and with it my Uncles’ love for Southern Rock, then enters my mother’s preferred music, the Blues. Of course around the 1990’s, Mathair heard a musical group and fell in love with their sound and style and thus was born her love for Grunge. That one she never shook!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTWKbfoikeg
Then came the new generation: me with my preferred style of Classical.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHzfD6XLK7Q
Should we go further, we’d find my sixteen year old brother….. Okay, so we stopped evolving and crept back up the ladder to the grunge rung. Shoot! I wanted to persuade him to listen to classical and win another for my team but it just wouldn’t take!!! Damn that Mathair!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxKWTzr-k6s
A family of stringed persuasion with a family of percussionists, we had musicians stacked to the ceiling. Nine guitarist, two drummers and now my brothers playing so make that 3. One banjo player, one bassist, Grandpa played the mandolin and my Uncle played the harmonica. Ahem…I took piano for a year. Okay, back to the musicians. Our family used to get together every Sunday after church and eat a sinfully delicious meal of Soul Food then play together for three to four hours or what they would call their jam. I remember those Sundays and loved them so much that they still make me smile and fill my heart with a longing for the old days before we lost so many of our family members. And those memories trigger my senses to the sounds of music, laughter and the smell and tastes of great food.
My great grandmother Jackie singing “Mule Skinner Blues” or “Crazy by Patsy Cline”; my Uncle Barry and Mama playing guitars while my dad played drums with my Poppa picking his leads while Uncle Robert thumped his bass. And the food, Good Lord! The smell of collard greens/ham hock simmering in the pot-liquor fills the air and makes my mouth water; the beautiful glazed ham baking in the oven; Nana making homemade macaroni and cheese. No box crap here, this is the South! And yes my friends, it’s not an urban legend or a great movie, fried green tomatoes with the best batter the South has to offer. (Sorry I can’t give away, it’s a family recipe!) And what good Southern meal doesn’t come with cornbread and red-eyed gravy. I can feel my hips expanding as I think back.
After the pants were unbuttoned and we couldn’t eat another bite of food it was time to take a walk to the music room where a circle of guitars awaited their musicians and a drum set sat in the corner. Microphones scattered about, amps turned up.
Although we are Southern and kept with those Bluegrass roots and country, the younger family members went their own way so, our dinners were introduced to Uncle Barry’s passion: Lynard Skynard, 38 Special, ZZ Top, The Eagles just to name a few.
Then there was mama, who at that time (the eighties pre-grunge) just couldn’t get enough of the blues, loving and learning the greats such as: Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, Stevie Ray Vaughan and the names go on and on.
I’ll never forget the day mama started a playing a tune on her electric guitar and the smiles broke out on everyone’s face as they joined in. Right before they were done, my Poppa’s voice rose above the music. “That’s tasty little girl, what’s the name of it?” Mama nodded then broke into the lyrics of Cocaine by Eric Clapton. Poor Poppa’s smile fell and he looked shocked, but joined in and played the hell out of a song called Cocaine. (Hold while I laugh. As you all know my Poppa was a minister. Thank God he had a great sense of humor and believed in his children’s right to choose their own artistic avenues.) Once an artist, always an artist, yet how can art bloom unless it’s given the freedom to move? Never confine art!
Good food, good family, good music and art evolving and becoming something wholly different from its root but Art nevertheless. To say life couldn’t get any better, would be putting it mildly. Of course like any dream, it did come to an end. Five of those people from those memories are gone now, gone home to be with the Lord. But I can at least say, that I tasted from the artistic well and one day, will see them again, where we’ll meet for good food, good music and good family or as my poppa like to call it, a ho-down!!
I guess artistic souls will always be evolving and find their avenues of creation. Most of the Artists we’ve met have more than one passion: novelists who also write poetry, Journalists who paint; Photographers who also play guitar in a band on the weekend, Fiction Authors who quilt. So tell us…what are you our dear friends waiting to surprise us with? What other waters do you pull from the well? We’d love to hear what your artistic gifts are. We know your writers, but what else turns you on? What’s your other gift that you love to practice? Whether it keeps you busy, allows you to vent, maybe it’s passed down from your family or perhaps you went off on your own and created something new. Whatever your passion may be, we are Artists and the well runs deep!
AMY SUNDBERG’S BLOG: THE PRACTICAL FREE SPIRIT: http://practicalfreespirit.com/2012/02/21/what-does-it-mean-to-be-an-artist/
diannegray said:
What amazing memories you have of your wonderfully gifted family. I couldn’t imagine life without music – that would be my idea of hell. I can’t function without music and I love all those you mention here (Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters and Stevie Ray Vaughan). Tab Benoit is currently playing as I write this – ahhhh, that’s better 😀
The Regular Guy NYC said:
Music is food for the soul.
Honestly, I could not imagine a life without music. I prefer the heavier stuff, but I am open to listening to everything from oldies to goth to techno to dance to heavy metal. I think those who pay no heed to music and don’t listen are missing out as it adds so much enjoyment to life. I’m not a musician but when I am creating on my blog music is always on in the background. It sets the mood and gets my juices flowing.
I do love Southern rock to – ZZ Top, Allman Brothers, Molly Hatchet. 38 Special….such great artists!
Inion N. Mathair said:
Southern rock is at the root of my families musical passion. I grew up listening to my Uncles play all those artists you mentioned. And my mother tells everyone her first love was Greg Allman. I love the fact that your open to all music genres. An eclectic is a person who can grow & appreciate all things. I myself am an eclectic and never turn an ear away from any music. Too afraid I’ll miss something incredible. Thanks for stopping by & commenting Phil. Always love seeing our New York culinary-connection here at Two Voices One Thought! 😉
victoriadougherty said:
Welcome Inion, dah-ling 🙂
PapaBear said:
Ah, darlin’ girls, ye have a family steeped in music, and isn’t it all grand ?
I love it all, from classic to country, rock to Rachmaninov, Beethoven to the Blues, and the world wouldn’t be the same without Celtic melody and rythms. ‘Tis good to be hearin’ from y’all again. The south, eh…, where are you from. I was born a yankee, but I’m a southern boy at heart. May th’ sun be always on your face, an’ th’ wind at yer back, and may ye always know the warmth of love.
Himself
Inion N. Mathair said:
Well hello our charming Irish brother!! So happy to see you back at Two Voices One Thought. & yes, we take the Irish blessing with much gratitude & return warm hugs & rich blessings!! As for our Southern heritage…my Father used to say that Florida’s state motto should be: “But where are you originally from?” lol. Whenever someone says they’re from Florida; the stock go-to response would be. “No, I mean where are you originally from?” Because no one was/is ever really from Florida. Are they? However, our family is 7 generations strong, Florida Crackers. A dying breed we’ve only come across a dozen or so in our lifetime. Perhaps there’s something to be said about a state that knows-no residents. A lonely state to be sure. (no pun intended) She’s beautiful, warm & full of dark mysteries with black rivers, crystal springs & breathtaking oceans. There’s exotic wildlife around every corner & tropical fruits are in abundance, yet her very own people left her there unattended when the snowbirds moved in & took over. lol. We’re proud of our Southern roots as much as our Irish and can only imagine what our ancestors must’ve thought having come to a swamp like that from the emerald isle! Your a Southern boy at heart…mmm I love that P.B. To be southern is a state of mind rooted from the heart and clearly your Irish roots have found a similar heritage that fits you like a glove. So your most welcome in Dixie as she gives graciously 😉 You’ll have to come by to one of our hoedown’s & taste of the good Southern food, good music & good company. You’ll fit in beautifully. Love having, you back Papa Bear & look forward to your comments & visiting your blog more regularly.
PapaBear said:
Florida, land of the displaced Yankee tired of the northern cold. The state bird is the “snowbird” you know. I lived in Bradenton for 10 years and loved every moment of it. Would come back if I could, but grandkids just wouldn’t understand. I worked with 3 ladies who were true born Floridians and as gentle souls as you’ve ever met. In another life I lived in Pass Christian, Mississippe for a time, but the rest of that story must wait a while. Thank you for your kind invitation to southern hospitality and don’t be surprised if I accept some time in the future. We still get back to FL from time to time. ‘Tis gettin’ late in th’ evenin’ now and time to drag Himself off to bed, so God bless ‘n’ be happy in yer dreams.
Paul
susielindau said:
I can so relate to your family! My father is an artist and my mother could have been, but was a seamstress and gourmet cook. My sister has started panting again and my brother is still in a band he started in college! He also is an on-location sound technician for film and television.
I was an artist back in the day and traded my paintbrush with a keyboard.
I think we do look at the world differently! That’s probably why they had artist’s salons back in the day and why getting together with others in our field feels so comfortable.
Inion N. Mathair said:
So true, Susie. Mathair and I always find comfort in visiting our networking friends’ blogs. Though we’re a family of artists, besides Mathair and I, the only other writer in the family was my grandfather. So, it is nice to find some like-minded folks that know the ups and downs that accompany this life. But, I feel that even writers are artists. That’s where I found my niche in the art world, where my creativity flowed. I knew very early on in life what I wanted to do and felt that it would be my artistic contribution to my family and the world. I also believe that any form of self expression is, in fact, art. Keeping that broad sense of creativity has really helped me as an artist, a writer and as a person. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. We love hearing from you. 😉
susielindau said:
I am a late bloomer! 🙂
Alarna Rose Gray said:
Wow. It would be amazing to be in a family so musically gifted! I love music… but alas, I can only appreciate it from the sidelines, as I am not musical myself. I did undergo 4 tortuous years of piano as a kid, and apparently, I wasn’t half bad. But I really didn’t enjoy it. If they had let me play the saxophone that might have turned out differently, but oh well. I’m happy to keep it at writing 🙂 There’s an argument for art being at the core of evolution, don’t you think?
Inion N. Mathair said:
“Art is at the core of evolution.” Love it, Alarna!! And you should totally try your hand at the Saxophone now. Hell yeah, why not! Sometimes those hidden desires that lie at the bottom of our artistic wells, can be such an amazing passion & surprise us later on in life. The saxophone is such a sexy instrument it would most definitely be worth a shot!! And by the way, the only other person I’ve heard refer to her piano lessons as “torturous.” Hint…hint…(Inion) but I’m not pointing fingers. lmao. Even though you didn’t enjoy piano, we’re sure it made for a good gateway art for the real love of your life, writing. And we’re so grateful you kept at it, as we are able to enjoy your wonderful gift as are many, many others! 😀 Thanks for coming by & for commenting Alarna.
Beth Teliho said:
“Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, Stevie Ray Vaughan…”
OMG YES! I think I just had a musicgasm. Those are my faves, as well as John Lee Hooker!
There aren’t many musicians in my family, but MANY artists, thespians, and there are even a few writers other than myself. I love the artist way of life.
Amazing post! going to check out the one who inspired it!
Inion N. Mathair said:
Musicgasm~ Bethie you should write a dictionary as you have the coolest vocabulary of anyone we know! That’s the best word we’ve heard in years!!! We are definitely borrowing that one. And yeah baby, you have unbelievable tastes in musicians. John Lee Hooker, hell yeah!! What a trump. Lovem’. Just throw in a Jerry Lee Lewis & mama’s ready to rock!! Hope you enjoy Amy’s post as much as we did & thanks for coming by and commenting. Running off now to enjoy some John Lee Hooker & have a Musicgasm~ LMAO 😀
Freya said:
What a wonderful post, those family jamming evening sound amazing. A very talented family indeed. I love traveling but that’s not really an art. There are many arts I love, photography, music, painting … unfortunately I’m not blessed with any talent but as long as I enjoy it myself I do not really care 🙂
Inion N. Mathair said:
Hi again!! Well, I wouldn’t go as far as to say your not blessed with any talent. It takes a special soul in deed to appreciate the artistic things of life. And thank God for people like you who appreciate the Arts. For years I’ve told people I was domestically challenged. lol Couldn’t boil water to save my life. Yet I LOOOOOVE food and always have. I also appreciate the skill & work that goes into making it & I’m addicted to the food network. i.e. Chopped, Unique Sweets, Cupcake Wars….all those shows. Come to find out, enjoying the food & surrounding myself with it. Well…it rubbed off. A few years ago I started cooking & the years of immersing myself in it must have helped because I’m pretty good! Definitely not a chef. But much better than I thought and even surprised my family. I bet if you tried your hand at many of the things you’ve enjoyed taking part in for years you would find the art of enjoying has helped the fan to become a bit of an Artist. What an adventurous life you lead. I envy your free spirit & passion & love for life!! Perhaps we can meet up one day in one of your beautiful exotic places for coffee. Thanks for coming by & be sure to look an extra second for me when your taking in one of your beautiful sunsets in those far away places. It’s been a dream of mine to travel 😀
michellejoycebond said:
It’s fabulous to have so many wonderful artists in your family! There’s a strong musical capacity in my family as well…though it ran more to polka. 🙂 My father even had his own record, haha.
Inion N. Mathair said:
His own record!! That’s badass Michelle!!! We love Polka and we’re introduced to it at my brothers wedding in Ohio. We found the entire wedding so much fun & everyone was eager to dance which made it nice. I think that’s what’s so great about Polka. There’s no harsh expectations or fears of looking cool or sexy, it’s just folks having FUN!!! Thanks for coming by & for commenting & please let us know the next time you have a polka-fest as we are there!!!
Aussa Lorens said:
This sort of family experience is so foreign to me, I find it fascinating. Most of my family are writers and/or painters but no real musical talent can be found. I always admire families that are like yours or that break out with a band (Hanson, anyone?). I would imagine that’s an incredible sort of thing to get to share with people you’re related to.
Inion N. Mathair said:
Hanson in deed & throw in some partridge family as well, lovin’ it!! I don’t know Aussa, after reading your last post, I think your an amazing woman that could do anything she set her mind too!!! Music, dancing…you name it. You’ve made it through the fire & have come out stronger on the other side. Nothing sexier than a woman who can survive & endure!!! And you my dear are not a only a survivor but a warrior!! And know that your always welcome at our family get togethers for food, music & fun!! Thanks for coming by as we always love to see a comment from our beautiful red-haired friend!! 🙂
Aussa Lorens said:
Aw! What! You’re too sweet, gaaah! And oh man– I prooomise you that you don’t want to hear me sing 😉 Don’t get me wrong, I still go for the singing and dancing but I make sure it’s just a limited audience within the confines of my home. Otherwise I think I might be detained for some sort of crime against humanity/decency.
jmmcdowell said:
My sister and I have some musical talent while my brothers leaned toward art when they were younger. That’s true of some cousins, too, although none of our parents were particularly creative that we know of!
I suppose I keep an open mind about ways to approach new projects, be they work-related or personal, which I think also translates to a degree of creativity.
Inion N. Mathair said:
Art can manifest itself in many ways & is any form of self-expression to those willing to let it move through them. Keeping an open mind about ways to approach projects is whole-heartedly artistic by nature and deals with the most important tool an artist has. Their mind!! Love the comment JM!! 😀
Coleen Patrick said:
So much creative coolness!! 🙂 In addition to writing, I really enjoy creating visually. I doodle, paint, sew, and glue stuff–anything crafty. Also I like to take photos and try to find the stories in those pictures too. 🙂
Inion N. Mathair said:
Mathair’s a huge fan of photography and counts you and Cindy Knoke as the best photographers out there right now. I’d have to agree with her. Finding stories in pictures… what a beautiful and passionate way to view photography, Coleen. I, on the other hand, leave capturing those beautiful moments for those far more adept than myself. LOL. My Nana also likes doing crafts, though she’d swear it’s just her being a Nana, I’m constantly telling her it’s art. I think it’s awesome, fascinating and inspiring when people, like you, Coleen, can find different ways to express themselves through creativity.
Noted in Nashville said:
What a family! Big D and I have always dreamed that our home would be the place people come to play, sing, and (of course!) eat.
I have so much respect for musicians who manage to make a living performing. I’d love to hear your father’s music. Do you have any recordings?
Inion N. Mathair said:
My father’s friends that he played with when he was really young, have videos of him playing on line I believe. I’ll see if we can get the site, although I think it’s Youtube. But thank you Anita, that’s something we should try to get for ourselves. I guess when you see it everyday you don’t think about it. My father was a cement truck driver five days a week & played in bands on the weekends at clubs & also did some session drumming. I think that’s what he called it & what his business card said. Sorry the musician thing never took with me, my brother but not me! lol 😀 It enabled him & mom to buy a home, build onto that home & keep me & my brother in a private school until I graduated & then helped me with my first two years of college. Although it wasn’t a fortune, over years it most definitely added up. One of the bands he played with was Wicked Gypsy(Rock) the other John Nielson(country)Both Florida Bands. Neither his favorite music which is progressive rock, Genesis, Yes. I believe we also have some family videos of our entire clan playing with daddy on drums. Which thanks to your comment I do believe I’m going to try to get my hands on. Might be nice to put them up on the site. He’s insane on the drums. People, (his friends, those who’ve heard him, played with him, all say the same thing, best drummer they’ve ever heard.) My mother won first place at the fair when she was eighteen, playing & singing a song she wrote. And my Uncle Barry was fortunate enough to play with the late, great Stevie Ray Vaughan when Stevie was virtually unknown & playing the bar circuit. Uncle Barry was in the army & stationed in Texas & cherishes that night.
Malcolm Greenhill said:
Thank you for this beautiful post giving me a window onto your joyous and artistic family. I felt so warm and wholesome after reading it and listening to the various musical styles that wove their way into your kindred memories.
Inion N. Mathair said:
Hi Malcolm, always happy to find you here on two voices one thought. Thank you for that. It most definitely reminds me of the good ole’ days before we lost so many of our family members. But I’m fortunate enough to have had it. I don’t know of any friends who we’re fortunate enough to have grandparents & great grandparents. I’m headed to your site now, as mama told me your post was incredible & was very impressed with your honesty & unbiased response to something that can be very bitter. I know I went through a divorce as the child when I was ten. Not a good thing for anyone. But then neither was the environment we we’re living in. It’s an unfortunate thing but sometimes necessary. Wish everyone could keep a civil tongue & fair head like you did. Headed over now & thank you for coming by!! 😀
mgm75 said:
A wonderful and inspiring article. Many think of painting, drawing and crafting when they hear the word “artist”. As writers we need to remember that we too are artists, we just work with words rather than colours and fabric 🙂
Inion N. Mathair said:
Brilliant point, Matt. That’s how I felt about it as well. Whereas I’m not a musician, I always knew my path would to lead to books and writing and Mathair would often tell me that pages were my canvas and the pen by brush. “Stories are your art, Ginger Brooke.” she’d say. We are artists and storytelling is an art that goes back as long as humans have been around.
aFrankAngle said:
Music has such a broad spectrum, so cheers to your family enjoying a wide musical swath. I’m broad of the fact that i enjoy many different musical genres ranging from classical, to pop, to rock, Broadway, new age, jazz, and more .. and even today, I play in a good handbell choir at church.
Taking a broader view of the arts, I consider part to be the greatest exhibition of human creativity.
Inion N. Mathair said:
Well said my friend, well said! You are an eclectic that enjoys variety & that shows an open mind; An open mind is essential for an Artist to grow & enjoy all life has to offer! Beautiful comment & thank you for coming by, Two Voices One Thought!! 😀
Darla McDavid said:
Wish I had been there with you all eating those ham hocks and collard greens and hearing great-grandmother sing Crazy. Great post! I love to knit and crochet. Nothing fancy. I just enjoy the process. It quiets me down. Scarves, wraps, blankets. I’m also a singer, a soloist with my church. A creative God makes creative people. Everyone has something to give.
Inion N. Mathair said:
Nothing better than soul food, Darla & we would’ve loved to have you over for some food, song & good fellowship. Mama & I miss it so much. As a singer, you could’ve jumped right in & everyone would’ve loved it!! Crocheting is something mama always wanted to get into but it never took. Such beautiful work. Great Grandma Lorraine used to say exactly what you did. That it relaxed her as well as keeping her hands strengthened (arthritis). Absolutely love what you said, Darla. “A Creative God makes creative people.” Beautiful~ ❤ ~We we're taught from the Bible by Poppa in church, that we are created after "His image" & as you said, God chose to also give us these incredible gifts. Our book, Nightwalkers, we bring this out. That all gifts are from God. And if we don't use them, or misuse them, He can take those gifts. So as Artists we must make sure we use our gifts to help others which pleases Him. Clearly your voice is glorifying his name as you are singing for his children. We would love to hear you sing one day Darla!! As fans of your work, anyone who writes as beautifully & soulful as you do, must have one passionate song inside her!! Thanks for coming by & for commenting. 🙂
Darla McDavid said:
Just so you know, back in my younger days, I sang and played guitar in local bands. My dream was to be a rock star, until an opportunity came up and I got a close look at the music business. I’m glad that I got off that track. People have been asking me for recordings, though, so I may put something together this year and share it. Stay tuned!
Inion N. Mathair said:
You know Darla, on my response to your comment before this one, I wrote that we would love it if you could have someone film one of your specials & you could post it on your blog for us to hear you sing. But I felt it might be to pushy or us invading on something personal, so I backspaced & left it off. I can’t tell you how excited I am to read your comment. Mathair & I cannot wait to hear your beautiful voice!! And as for your choice, in bowing out of the rock bus. I’m sure God has shown you that you made the right one. Our first book, The Perfect 7, which has been controversial for it’s language & explicit nature, is about just that… the ugliness of the Rock business. Five teenage boys are lured into the rock-n-roll business from their lust for the sex, drugs & rock-n-roll lifestyle and ego’s searching for fame. It’s an ugly ride & in the end they see that the frequent-travelled road was a destructive one that costs them dearly. Many Rock stars have struggled with drugs, divorce, alcoholism & on and on!! I’d say your choice was a wise one. Looking forward to hearing the beautiful voice of Darla McDavid, our Rock Star!!!
katythenightowl said:
To read about your memories brings back so many of my own childhood, although we didn’t have any musicians in our family as I grew up. But I was always surrounded by music, whether it was Rock ‘n Roll, Irish Country, or the Classics that only I seemed to love 🙂
As I grew up, I loved to sing, and to act, and spent many happy times performing with our town’s music and drama society.
But my family also had many practical artists in our family and, as we were such a large family, mum taught us the practicalities of cooking and sewing, which we each took to in different directions. There was also Knitting, and my Great-grandmother taught us all the basics of Crochet – well, she tried with me, but I was too much into books at the time to be interested, although it’s one of my greatest loves now 🙂
All of my sisters are excellent at Cross-stitch, two of them are now great card-makers, and we all knit and crochet, but, apart from the crochet, my biggest love is writing, whether poetry, short stories, or my varied attempts at something longer.
I guess, if you look close enough at any family, you’ll find an amazing range of artistic talent, and it’s actually come out in my daughter through guitar playing, a variety of circus skills, and fire performances – in fact, all of this next generation of our large family seem to be finding a totally diverse way of expressing themselves – just as we did in our time 🙂
Inion N. Mathair said:
What wonderful memories Katy. Love this as reading your comment we can see the art flow through your family & evolve into different passions. Sewing, crocheting & things like that are something mama has always wanted to do but never been able to pick up. My great grandmother crocheted beautiful things. We still have the last thing she worked on, an afghan for mama. These things, reminders of those we love & treasures that can be passed down!! Love the Irish Country. I’ve been getting into my heritage these past few years listening to a lot of Celtic music which I find beautiful!! Will try some of the Country!! Thanks for coming by & for commenting. 🙂
katythenightowl said:
Thanks Inion 🙂
Having drown up with an Irish father and a Welsh/Scots mother, anything Celtic was played in our home – but Irish country was truly my parents favourite 🙂
I guess I was the odd one out in my love for the Classics, but I was fortunate in having some brilliant music – and English – teachers at school who encouraged us all to widen our horizons – now I love blue grass, blues and jazz equally as well, too 🙂
Curt Mekemson said:
Some fun sharing your talented and musical family. What a kick it must have been to get together and play– hard to beat as a common bond. And maybe you used up enough calories to justify that Southern feast. 🙂 I, too, come from a right-brained family of writers, musicians, and artists. We never had any get-togethers like yours, however. Beyond writing, I enjoy photography. My secret passion is cartooning. My family and friends have to put up with my efforts via Christmas and birthday cards. Only recently have I allowed some of my creations to appear on my blog. 🙂 –Curt
Inion N. Mathair said:
Cartooning is completely bad ass, Curt. My uncles gave me my first bit of reading material when I was two. (No, it’s not Playboy LOL) It was actually their comic book stash and I’ve been comic nerd/fan ever since, so I think illustrations and anyone that can do them (even if it’s stick figures) are fascinating. Especially because I can’t draw to save my life. LOL. And though Mathair and I would like to think that jamming is a definite calorie burner, the only things that can shed all that cornbread, pork fat, butter, and Crisco is circuit training, detox and/or fasting. 😉 BTW, we’re on our way to your blog to check out your creations.
Curt Mekemson said:
Travel back to just before Xmas and meet the Bovine Trio straight from Las Vegas singing moo-ed music. 🙂 –Curt
Arlene said:
Ahhh to have a chance to experience this – all that Southern homemade food … I would love to try and the music sounds incredible.
My family is very musical as well but more so the uncles, aunts and cousins. My older brothers had a band but somehow I didn’t get one ounce of musical blood. Well, except I can dance. I can’t play and I definitely can’t sing! But I remember when I was really young the family getting together and playing Spanish music and singing on guitars, bongos, congas and then out came pots and pans with wooden spoons … hair picks on air conditioner grates … dried beans inside of two bowls closed together … two metal spoons clapped together … anything that would make sound and rhythm. You’d think it’d sound horrible as I describe it, but it didn’t! It was true music. And it was awesome!
It’s been awhile since I’ve experienced that and your post brought it back to me. Thanks for the reminder and a GREAT post!
Inion N. Mathair said:
Actually, I’m lovin’ what your puttin’ out, Arlene. I can hear those beans a gettin’ and am loving the use of pots and pans. Matter of fact, I’m itchin’ to come visit y’all for the next get together. LOL My great grandmother used two spoons quite often, when her fingers tired of pickin’ the banjo. And, because me and my cousin were very young and not playing instruments, we’d often take to cuttin’ a rug. We’re Southwest Floridians and my mother’s side of the family is all from Miami, so the Cuban culture is heavy where we’re from and Latin music is one of my favorites. Especially love watchin’ people (much more equipped than myself) dancing to it. Mathair’s mother (my Nana) is a quarter Spanish and my mother plays a beautiful song on the guitar that her maternal great grandmother used to play. I can’t remember the name of it, but it’s my favorite thing she does on the guitar. Thank you so much for stopping by and commenting.
Patsy said:
Does gardening count?
Inion N. Mathair said:
Of course, gardening counts, Patsy, and my Nana would second the notion. She’s part of the green thumb clan as well. Myself and Mathair aren’t members, unfortunately. Matter of fact, I can just look at a flower and it wilts. LOL. Thanks for stopping by and commenting, Patsy. We love hearing from you.
Carrie Rubin said:
I used to play piano, but over the last decade, my poor piano sits silent. I’d love to revive whatever talents I had in the area, but as with so many things, time is never on my side. 🙂
Inion N. Mathair said:
I had piano lessons when I was very young, but it never took. I was more of a singer. I sang in church plays, school talent shows, choirs… and was told numerous times by people to pursue singing. Of course, I knew writing was always the way I wanted to go. To be a singer, a performer in any aspect, you’d have to be able to bear the limelight (most love it) and that isn’t something I’m comfortable with. I sing to myself or when Mathair can talk me into it, but beyond that, I’ve hung up my crooning hat. I love the sound of a piano though. You should totally pick it back up. We do understand the time constraints. It’s so difficult to find the time. Writers should be lobbying for like twelve day weeks. LOL
Carrie Rubin said:
Ha, yes, I’d sign that petition!
Marcia said:
Oh, I love this! I love all kinds of music but my fave is classic rock. What fun it must have been to have a musical family! As for my own art, other than writing, I look for old furniture no one wants anymore and fix it up with paint or new fabric, whatever they need. I also sew, cross stitch, and various other crafts. I used to organize crafts for local schools and community organizations. I love entertaining family and friends with a fabulous presentation of table setting, room decor and food-yes, I consider that art. 🙂 if I get to visit with you this summer, there better be music involved!
Inion N. Mathair said:
What an awesome talent, Marcia! That’s totally art! Mathair loves designing and has often thought about taking night courses for interior decorating. She loves going piddlin’ (antiquing) and bringing back treasures to fix up. And, we are totally having music when you come on down and we are going to spoil you rotten with some good ole soul food. 😉
Marcia said:
So looking forward to it, Sweets.
Kylie said:
Viva la Grunge!!
Inion N. Mathair said:
That’s what I keep sayin’, Kylie, but Inion just won’t listen. LOL She does like some grunge, but she’s more into classical, bluegrass and she’s obsessed with the bagpipe and Celtic music. Go figure, her momma likes hardcore grunge, southern rock and the steely sound of the blues. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Patti Hall said:
What a fun post! Hilarious conclusion about gin as remedy. Will be back to read again and to check out some links…I’ve been playing DJ for my folks and they are having fun reminiscing…made dad cry once. Should have seen mom dancing with her new hip…scary…had to make her stop. You both would fit in well here. Sorry, I finished the currant wine last night.
Hugs, Patti
Inion N. Mathair said:
Oh Patti, we are definitely going to have to get together with you & yours as your family sounds so similar to ours. What laughs we could have & what fun!! And yes, Mr. Navigator always livens things up with his Irish history & stories. He’s a character to be sure & sounds like he’d fit in as well. 😉 Mom dancing with her new hip. Hell yeah, go mom!!! She sounds awesome. Thanks for coming by can’t wait to tell mom that you we’re the first to visit & comment!! 🙂
Patti Hall said:
I know we would all fit in well, too. Hugs and I want you to have an extra hug, because I bet you took care of your mom very well. Mom keeps kidding about us writing a book together and I’ve told her about my favorite mom/daughter writing team. XO!
navigator1965 said:
What a delightful post – thanks for much for sharing this. I have to visit you ladies sometime for the food described here. A little Stevie Ray Vaughn on the turntable wouldn’t be a bad idea, either.
I come from an artistic Irish heritage myself. My great grandfather (might have been great-great; will have to check the family lore) Micky was once heard, upon passing a packed pub on St. Patrick’s Day, to utter with contempt, “Amateurs.” Art in this case being the art of drink, of course.
Mickey drank a quart of gin every day, worked on a poor farm, and lived until he was 72. The conclusion that I draw from this is that farm life has an adverse impact on life expectancy, for which gin is an effective remedy.
There is also Dad’s cousin, who won the Governor General’s award for his writing.
Inion N. Mathair said:
Well, I have to say, only an Irishman could call the alcohol buzz of the day “The Art of Drinking!” Absolutely luv this!! 😀 And I think there might be a needed post here on The Mirror, Navigator. Mickey’s far to interesting, to let that one go. Calling a pub of patrons on St. Patty’s day no less, Amateurs. Once again, only an Irishman!! As for us, we’ll keep the collard greens stewing & the fried green tomatoes crisp, just let us know when your comin’. All are welcome to a southern ho-down; just make sure you bring your appetite & a good sense of humor!! 🙂
navigator1965 said:
Two things I am never without!
Until my southern visit, then. }:-)>
August McLaughlin said:
“I guess artistic souls will always be evolving and find their avenues of creation.” I love this — so true!
I knew I wanted to pursue artistry, something creative, for years before I realized what I aspired to do—fashion, then acting, now writing… to name the biggies. Finally, I feel I’m in my zone with writing and activism. Even so, I know that other art forms are precious to me, and I try to stay open. It’s an exciting adventure, isn’t it?
Inion N. Mathair said:
Love this comment, August, because it’s the perfect way for an artist to be… open. You’ve definitely allowed your artistic well to flow freely and having sampled many of your gifts, let us say that we are very glad you have. Your radio show, your blog, your book, your acting spots, can’t wait to see what August will do next. Thanks for coming by and commenting.