Where There's a Will...There's a Way
If there's a will, there's a way...that's what my mother used to tell me. When she was telling me this, I really didn't want to listen but, luckily she repeated it a million times and it finally sank in. I can understand where this saying comes from, especially coming from her as a Greek immigrant. It rings true today but, it's not said, "if there's a way, there's a will". It’s too old fashioned. Other forms of this phase such as 'Stay hungry' or 'Do what you love and the reward will come later' are heard today. All true.
As a passionate and creative Greek myself, most of the my projects fall into this category.. Along with a bit of luck and persistence I've been able to extend my creative happiness. It all began a summer many, many years ago, a child at home with nothing to do had an idea. As a child that loved to sketch and play with his toys in the garden, had an idea build a model of a summer home the family used to frequent in wine country.
I drew a few pictures and then proceeded to use Popsicle sticks or toothpicks to build the facade. A few frustrating moments later, that project was shelved never to be completed. Fast forward two decades while taking architecture classes at CCSF. I was late with a freehand drawing and the instructor advised me to drop it off at his studio. I did and was amazed at the space, very tall ceilings and lots of natural light that flooded in. Paul was there, hunched over a large model, his hand reaching inside to adjust something. In complete amazement I heard inside my heart, my childhood voice, but, with a masculine tone...' that's how you are going to build the (summer home) model!' By then, it was too late. Dad had sold the house.
Then I got my chance. Started to work at Paul's shop and learned the business of visualization, model making, and working on a team. Fast forward again thirty years to present day Chicago. I’m sitting here at my desk wondering where those years have gone and looking back to see the path that lead me here. Seeing the inspiration, all the various projects that challenged and guided me to where I am today.
I'm not building as many models as I once did and wondering where the next path lies. Thankfully, there is a rather large and complicated model here. It's taking a long time to create, with the client due to visit me in a few hours. I have to keep reminding myself...'if there's a will, there's a way'...and try to finish this project.