Big Bang Theory of Writing Well

Last week I visited The Museum of Fine Art in Houston, Texas. They had a special exhibition titled Picasso Black and White. Throughout Picasso's career from 1904 to 1970, he created paintings and sculptures in black and white. I knew what to expect. And there were no major surprises.

In another section of the museum, I was surprised.

I walked into a rectangular room with Chinese pottery and ancient writings. I thought the black and tan mural that wallpapered the walls was to set the mood. Then a soft spoken Chinese security lady urged, "You missed the video. You must watch how all this was created."

CAI GUO-QIANG GUNPOWDER PAINTINGS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26yS2ppwB7k

"What motivates me to make art is that I’m worse at doing everything else. 

For me, making art is fun, and it allows me to have a dialogue with my inner self and with society in general." 

- Cai Guo-Qiang

Watching Chinese-born artist Cai Guo-Qiang create murals using gunpowder was amazing. I have a greater appreciation of his work after learning his process.

The same is true in writing. As I accumulate more knowledge and experience about the craft of writing, I have a greater appreciation for others works. And one day I will earn the right to wallpaper my home with book covers instead of rejections.