For some time now, I’ve been chipping away at a block of wood. The goal has been to create a wood block stamp of an African themed design that I created a while back.

While carving away each little sliver of wood, I have questioned whether this mode of creation is worth the time. It would be easier to give in and buy a CNC router that can achieve a more precise outcome in a fraction of the time, but I wonder what is gained and what is lost in doing so; that is, what is lost when machines replace the hands of an artist of sorts?

In embracing new technology, are we adding value to a process, to a product, to ourselves, or are we just seeking quick returns?

The world moves pretty fast these days. It often seems there is so little time. It’s appealing to take the quickest path to a destination, but in so doing, are we depriving ourselves of all the slivers of joy and gratification we might find along the journey? I gather that small, seemingly inconsequential achievements, like carving away tiny slivers from a block of wood, over time, amount to a tremendous feeling of reward. At least, I have found this to be true for myself. This process, while slow and tedious, has added value to my life in the form of fulfillment.

The end product is not perfect. The stamp bears the imperfections of the wood and of my artistic ability, but I suppose it’s the flaws that make it special. Like wrinkles and scars upon the body, the “flaws” reveal the true character of someone or something shaped by time and experience. To me, this is far more beautiful than “perfection.”

I’m not opposed to using new technology in the creation of art, but I believe it is imperative that we consider what is lost in doing so, for the best of life often lies within the journeys and the best of ourselves often lies within the imperfections.

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