Lord of the Rings inspired Bows & Quiver - By Dennis White

Well, taking photos is a fabulous hobby, and I hope your (and my) skill always improve as we practice.  I think there are similarities in photography and in leather and wood working as well...  When I made the quiver, I thought it wasn't bad, but now that I am working on the second one, I think the first one is somewhat embarrassing!  It isn't that anyone who isn't expert in leathercraft wouldn't be somewhat impressed, after all - I am borrowing from a vast reservoir of talent in the Lord of the Rings genera, from J.R.R. Tolkien himself, to Peter Jackson, WETA studios and all the rest.  So when anyone sees my quiver or bows, much of the impression they make comes from the LOTR phenomenon itself, rather than from my skills as a craftsman.  Hopefully, as time goes on and I continue to practice and learn, I may rightfully join the ranks of the truely talented.  I am seeing improvement, so I can continue to dream!

Same with pictures - God's creatures and creation is itself so impressive that much of the impression from even my own pictures is due to that inherent greatness.  But a discerining eye notices the photographer's selection of composition and color, which separates the talented from the novices.  You are somewhere along the path between beginner and artist, with an inate skill and a love of the art that drives you forward.  That is one of the things that makes this forum so fun - like-minded pilgrims sharing in their experiences...

 Thanks for contributing to the experience!

 Dennis