Really.

Over the last few years of cake decorating, I've sometimes wondered why I feel compelled to spend so many hours creating something that will be devoured in less then 10 minutes. Sure, I can take pictures to remind myself of my cake art that I poured my heart and soul into, but the actual creation is gone. Logically, I kept thinking that it was a waste of time to want every detail perfect (though we all know a cake will never be "perfect"). Yet, I still felt the desire to make every cake as beautiful as I could, but I couldn't exactly pinpoint why I felt that need.

This morning, my friend posted an article featuring sand sculptures. I was marveling at the incredible talent of the sand artists. Some of the sculptures made me think of the classical artists from the Renaissance. I can't imagine the number of hours it takes the artists to create their sculptures, all the while knowing that their creation will eventually be washed away. Somehow that makes me like their art even more. They create to make something beautiful, even if the physical product will only exist for a moment. They find joy in the process of creation. I can relate because I feel the same way when I decorate cakes.

Nice analogy!

I never thought of it like that. Hmmm interesting ......I like it

I actually kinda like that about cake decorating. Beauty is fleeting! Also like artwork done with sidewalk chalk.

Yes, I love sidewalk chalk art, too!

Another thought that has crossed my mind when I give a friend decorated treats is that I get to share a talent with someone and not have to worry that it fits the style of their home (like I would with a painting or vase).

"To Create is to be at peace for in creating one is joined with the Creator" Author unknown

That's a nice quote, wespam.

Love that quote. Just entered it into the daily diary I've kept for 13 years for my granddaughter. Today, after delivering a wedding cake the bartender said " All that work only to be ruined", and I said "That's what I love about it - now I can start over again and make it even better".

I'm the same way when I make a cake. I spend hours and hours making every little detail as perfect as I can knowing everyone will see it for only a few minutes and then it will be cut and that will be the end of it. But I always take pictures. And the nice thing about pictures, a lot of the time you don't see imperfections that you do in person

It is a lot like sand castles, but cakes aren't just swept away and ruined eventually, you get to eat them mmmmmm