Evolving Perspectives: The Transformation of My 3D Cube Art

I want share the journey behind my 3D cube art—those little pieces that I spent so much time creating this time last year. You know how it goes; we invest a lot into our work, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, things just don’t go as planned, and that was certainly the case with these cubes.

Artistic view of multiple 3D cubes, made by Calgary artist Mary-Jo Lough, in various colors displayed stacked on top of each other, demonstrating their versatility and visual impact.

When I first created them, I was convinced they would be a hit. I devoted countless hours to perfecting each one, eager to unleash them at the Spruce Meadows Christmas Market. But, as the weekends passed - they didn’t sell as well as I envisioned, and at times, it was disheartening.  People loved them, and were often drawn to our booth because of them.  However, they felt they were too heavy to be Christmas ornaments and then didn’t know how to display them, and therefore the sales were slow!  Nevertheless, I couldn’t let the idea die. I believed in these cubes and saw their potential, so I decided to shift my perspective rather than abandon my vision.

Initially, I considered various options for displaying the cubes, including a multi-piece hanging arrangement. It seemed promising at first, but executing that idea proved difficult. Then, during a conversation with a friend, they casually suggested a triangle cube stand, and that simple suggestion sparked an idea.

3-D CUBE ART #27 by Mary-Jo Lough, hand-painted 2.25” cube made from solid wood, featuring vibrant abstract art and layered details on a Hanging Stand.

It opened the door to new possibilities. I began researching different display options and experimenting with different ideas. It was refreshing to see these cubes find their place in a way that felt right. The triangle stands and hanging displays transformed my perception of the pieces—they became more than just art; they evolved into a statement.

When we enter a creative endeavor, we often start with a vision in mind. This vision serves as our compass, guiding us through the initial phases of our work. However, as we dive deeper into the creative process, we might discover that our original concept doesn’t quite align with the final product. This is where the real learning begins. Embracing change means acknowledging that our initial ideas can evolve based on new insights, experiences, and perspectives.  Through this experience I’m reminded that creativity is less about rigidly sticking to our initial vision and more about being willing to adapt and transform along the way. Every piece of feedback, every new piece of information, and every conversation can influence the direction of our work. By remaining flexible, we open ourselves up to unexpected avenues that can enhance our creativity.

3-D CUBE ART #28 by Mary-Jo Lough, hand-painted 2.25” cube made from solid wood, featuring vibrant abstract art and layered details on a triangle stand.

Ultimately, the willingness to experiment and pivot reflects a deep trust in our own creative instincts.  The Universe seems to have a way of constantly reminding me how important my intuition is!  Nurturing this trust allows us to move beyond any fear of failure and embrace the process, knowing that each step—whether perceived as a success or a setback—contributes to our growth as artists. So, as I move forward, I’m committed to nurturing that openness, reminding myself that every change can bring fresh possibilities.

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Gratefully yours,

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