I think we artists tend to be a bit like magpies, hoarding all those shiny new supplies (Bright Shiny Object Syndrome), latest techniques and e-courses. We’re constantly looking around at all the fabulous art being shared, and we want to keep trying our hand at new techniques and styles. Which is definitely fun, of course, though I think there comes a time when you should consider going deeper with your art practice. .… taking time to really focus in on what you already have and exploring techniques or styles in greater depth.
A few years back, I packed a bunch of art supplies into a shoe box and determined that each day I would make some piece of art (even a sketchbook page) only out of the items that were in the box - this follows my premise (I didnt invent it!) that scarcity nurtures creativity - the less we have, the fewer distractions around us and the simpler our choices that encourage us to experiment and be brave with creating.
So what did this teach me? First, the obvious - I don't need a lot of stuff to be creative. Second, I learned to use my tools and supplies in different ways, if I wanted a certain line or splodge - then I had to use what I had and….experiment! Third, combining the work in interesting ways, nothing was precious - so tear it, cut it, make a mess, anything and everything was possible. And finally, I had the opportunity to really look at my art - it was different and exciting in new ways. I was able to reach deeper within myself to make meaningful art that was surprising and also reflective.
When I traveled last year, my art supplies fit into a small plastic tote and I probably used every tool, paper, and paint at least once - I also had a ‘breakthrough' into a new series that I am excited by - a narrow-ish focus that is leading me into a totally new realm that will certainly last me for many months (maybe years) to come. On a second trip, my art kit consisted of watercolour paints, one Pigma marker, one pencil, one brush and a pad of postcard size watercolour paper and this different location took an entirely different route and I am equally excited about this alternate focus which has become my Casco Vello series. I anticipate alternating between these two focus (foci) for the foreseeable future.
By narrowing down, I can take time to developing my skills, improving my techniques, learning more about colour mixing, stitch, fabric capabilities and more. I can explore working larger and larger - for me this is a huge mountain to climb and something essential for my growth. I plan to set goals - not “pie in the sky” ones but reasonable, achievable goals with set benchmarks along the way so that I can measure my progress (and have little rewards - chocolate anyone?) I am also going to journal - something like Morning Page but perhaps in a sketchbook format. As well, I want to learn more about artists whose work or style is similar to mine, not to copy but to get a sense of their thoughts and processes - what inspires and directs their work.
Does this seem appealing to you? Does this resonate with your heart? Then join me for the Artists Deep Dive this September, where we journey together into our art and dig into the meaningful part of art making - if you are curious then come to the Artists Deep Dive Q&A session via Zoom on August 9th, at 10:00AM PDT. You can register on Eventbrite here: https://tinyurl.com/4apz4h5x
PS - Nothing is forever and the blue pieces above have been ripped out of their frames and will go into a sketchbook for reference - our art changes and we grow. It's OK to move on!
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