Over Thanksgiving weekend, I visited the Akron Art Museum in
Ohio with my mother. I enjoyed a few favorite art pieces, but the artwork that
stood out the most was the glass sculpture of Paul Stankard (American. Attleboro,
Massachusetts, 1943 - ). His work shows, what looks like real miniature flora
and fauna, but is actually glass flora and fauna suspended in the center of
glass sculpture (see picture below). I watched a video on Paul’s history and
his struggle through school as an undiagnosed dyslexic. I thought what a
powerful message and gift. Here is a man, who is not “perfect” in our cultures
standards, but still, found his calling and purpose in life: transforming
people’s lives through his glass art. What is considered a hindrance in our world
was used to lead Paul to his purpose. This
made me think more about how each one of us has different strengths and
weaknesses, quirks, insights, and struggles.
 |
MORNING GLORY , 1984 Glass |
When employers look for a new employee, there seems to be a
cookie cutter list they are looking to find. What if, instead of trying to find
someone “perfect,” that fits every single desire, employers broadened their
horizons, looking for someone who can bring something unique unto themselves to
the table but are capable of growing in their weakest areas. You will never
find someone “perfect” who has, and does everything in a set standard. If you look
at the whole person, the unique, creative side of someone, you may find the
perfect, imperfect treasure. This is true to every area of our life in both
professional and personal relationships.
Paul’s story and glass art is encouraging and inspirational
to me, and I hope for you as well. Stankard currently lives and works in
Mantua, New Jersey.
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