Finding Inspiration Under Your Feet

Walking around the grounds and through the heritage buildings in The Arts Centre in Christchurch, New Zealand, I found myself stopping every few steps to look up at the expanse of roof patterns and to take pictures of the various flooring patterns. I was excited when I entered a building and saw this floor with prominent quarter square triangles! It reminded me of a quilt with pieced sashing and a geometric patterned border.

Of course, there were intricate herringbone patterns - like this one with a simple brick border.

I was quite intrigued at the artistry of this downspout access plate.

After the devastating earthquakes from 2010-2011, The Arts Center has been rebuilt, strengthened and restored. From their website: "Located in the heart of Otautahi Christchurch, The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora is New Zealand's largest collection of category one heritage buildings. Held in trust for the people of Waitaha Canterbury and visitors, The Arts Centre is renowned as a hub of arts, creativity, culture and education. The post-earthquake restoration sees 20 of the 23 buildings complete. Restored buildings are significant landmarks and platforms for activities and experiences, including exhibitions, concerts, education programmes, workshops, films, festivals, creative residencies and much more. 30 organisations call The Arts Centre home, including galleries, cinemas, museums, boutique retailers and artisan eateries, art hotel and there are 10 venues to hire."

"Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." ~Edgar Degas

When we returned to the B&B later that day, I looked out the dining room window and took some photos of the expansive views. I noticed that the children next door had a chalk art day on their long driveway. I hope they had as much fun drawing their chalk art as I enjoyed viewing it.

This piece was called 'Count the Stars':

This familiar piece was called '10 Star Jump'. When I went on a walk the next day, there was another hopscotch drawn and I hopped through it - in both directions! When was the last time you did that?

"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." ~George Bernard Shaw

We continued our travels to the North Island where we attended Beach Hop 2025 - a nostalgic car event held in the beautiful coastal towns of Waihi, Pauanui, Onemana, and Whangamata. The multi-day event brings together rock 'n roll and car cultures with an estimated attendance of over 100,000 and approximately 3,000 cars, motorcycles, utes (pick-up trucks/utility vehicles), and vintage caravans (camper vans).

Yes, I spotted Chuck, the popular Chalk Truck! And, yes, I grabbed a piece of colorful art chalk from the bed of the truck and signed the cab (near the back window) - indicating that we were there in 2025. Chuck is erased, wiped clean and readied for new autographs each day.

Here's a look at Chuck on the final day:

"Watch where you're walking!" has never a problem for me. I love finding pebbly pathways, wonky walkways, and timeless tile (even a rusty running board) - sometimes in an unexpected location. In future blogs, I will share how they have been some of the many sources of inspiration that I've found on my creative journey.

Is there one item that continually provides creative inspiration for you?

Thank you for stopping by.

XOXOX