A couple weeks ago I noticed that my current art focus had veered off course into a repetitive, boring ….meh! While it's sometimes natural for this to happen; when I'm making art for an upcoming Studio Tour - time and quality/quantity of work is critical. I first noticed this when I had made a couple pieces that were not as exciting as my work in the previous couple weeks and after stepping back to examine why, I realized that the most recent work had become formulaic - it was made for the sake of “being made” and had no resonance or voice to me….I had been excited with my Casco Vello series and I thought I just needed to make - more of the same. Same is boring!
How did I change this?
I took a few minutes to revisit my original theme or concept. I asked myself what initially drew me to it and why it's important to me. I remember being in the little villages and loving the architecture - I wanted to explore structure, layering and composition.
I analyzed my recent pieces and identified elements that strayed from my initial theme. They looked more jumbled and slapped together. So then I looked for commonalities or recurring motifs that could help reconnect with my core ideas. I brought out the colour wheel and studied triadic schemes, I brought back in a more neutral palette, and I changed some of the shapes I was using. I also introduced curves of aqueducts into the compositions. These steps have enriched my work and led to more exciting compositions.
I have established specific objectives for my upcoming projects that align with my theme. I have a list of different sizes I want to create - not all small, not all large and a couple as landscape/rectangles. Creating a specific list will help me stay on track and maintain my sense of direction.
I have also asked for feedback from my art friends. I was trying to be economical and re-use old, cheap frames. Then I decided my work deserved better, if I spend the time making something great, then I shouldn't show it as less than perfect.
Finally, if I want to explore different directions, do so mindfully, keeping in mind how these experiments might eventually contribute to or enhance my core theme. I make sketches, small samples, use different mediums or techniques but I don't incorporate them into my finished work unless I know they add to the work in a significant way.
I remember that the creative process is fluid, and occasional detours can lead to unexpected breakthroughs. If I embrace these moments as part of my artistic journey, and I'll find my way back to my focus with renewed passion and purpose.
Your opinions and insights on this matter would be valuable, so feel free to share them.
Leave a Reply