The Delight Project: Out Loud

Anne Pollard James
Aug 31
2 min read

Updated: Oct 11

This spring, I was invited to speak about my work on The Delight Project.

The invitation came from Helen Opper, who juried the show at the Paseo Arts Center in Oklahoma City. My piece, The Delight Project; No 5, was included. She asked if I’d be part of an artist talk alongside Paige Nyugen and Tony Tiger.

It was a fast yes.

This would be the first time I’d speak publicly about my work on this project, which has occupied so much of my mind for the last eighteen months.

The Freedom of Expression

What surprised me most was the freedom I felt in that room. I didn’t know anyone in the audience. That anonymity gave me space to loosen up and just follow the red thread of my own thoughts.

Talking in front of strangers somehow allowed me to speak more like a riff. I found that unknown part super exciting. Teresa from the Paseo recorded the whole thing. Listening back, I could hear how right it felt to say the words out loud. The project had finally found its public voice.

The Project

If you’re new here, The Delight Project is an ongoing experiment of reclamation, joy, and embodiment.

At its simplest, it asks: What about your body brings you delight? It’s not about gloss or perfection. It’s about small truths, remembered rituals, and flashes of being alive in your skin.

Why This Talk Mattered

Up until that night, I’d only shared The Delight Project in one-on-one conversations or small groups. This allowed me to consider:

What do I most want people to know about this project?
Why does it matter right now?
How is it shaping me as much as I shape it?

Naming those things out loud shifted something for me.

What’s Next

This summer gave me incredible space to flesh out my ideas. I have new pieces and a more complete direction. The Delight Project keeps expanding, and I can feel it stretching into what’s next.

I’m including the recording of my talk here. If you’re curious or think you might want to be part of The Delight Project, take a listen, and click here for more details.

Speaking this work out loud, being witnessed, that’s really the point: delight grows when it’s shared.

Reflections on Creativity

Creativity is a journey. It evolves and changes, much like us. Each piece I create is a reflection of my experiences and emotions. I invite you to explore what brings you joy.

The Importance of Sharing

Sharing our creative work can be daunting. However, it is essential for growth. When we share, we connect with others. We open doors to new conversations and ideas. This is where true delight lies.

Engaging with the Audience

Engaging with an audience can transform the experience. It creates a dialogue. It allows for feedback and new perspectives. This interaction enriches the creative process.