Where do we get new ideas?
As I work in my studio, I have begun to list all of the ideas that waft through my mind when I am just waking in the morning, walking, participating in a conversation, and reflecting...
As I work in my studio, I have begun to list all of the ideas that waft through my mind when I am just waking in the morning, walking, participating in a conversation, and reflecting afterwards. I have decided to look through my main journal and then write the main ideas down in small color coordinated Moleskine journals. I think that is my equivalent of the box system that Twyla Tharp mentions. Apparently, she creates a box for each concept that she is interested in developing, and begins to fill the box with anything that could possibly expand that idea. I like the organizational structure. Now when I have an idea, drawing, connection, metaphor that relates to my concept, I will have a place to put it where I can easily reference it!
I follow the blog of Clara Lieu, an artist and teacher, who I have never met, but discovered online, while looking for references to dealing with transparent layers, which I work with in my art. She has amazing work, is consistent in her way of working, and extremely articulate at describing her process. Reading her blog is a unique opportunity to get to know her rendition of the creative process. Definitely worth following!http://www.claralieu.com/work/digging/index.html
I found this link on her blog concerning new ideas..Try it!
And as Twyla recommends, write/draw things down before they are forgotten!
Life as art...a balancing act
The materials that I build my life with are artwork, spiritual growth, physical needs, intellectual development, relationships, environment (surroundings) and riches (both financial and other).
I look at " life as art ". It makes sense to me that the very act of being requires creativity and can improve with self-reflection. Reading, meditating and experimenting have allowed me to put together a holistic , creative way of balancing life. I have created a mindmap of the areas in my life in which I want to be sure to develop and unify.
When you are creating art, it is always good to take a step back and reflect on it, asking whether it needs color, a certain linear quality, a better balance. These are some of the elements and principles of art.
The elements of design are line, form, color, value, texture and space. These concepts are organized by the principles of art . The principles of art are balance, movement,repetition contrast, emphasis, balance, pattern and unity. So, I decided to apply these elements and principles to the big art of my life and see what would happen!
The materials that I build my life with are artwork, spiritual growth, physical needs, intellectual development, relationships, environment (surroundings) and riches (both financial and other). I knew it would be difficult to remember these areas on a daily basis, so I made them into an acronym, ASPIRER. I like that word , so I remember it easily.
Each day, I plan my activities and goals around these seven areas. Some occur more often than others, but I generally touch base with each of the areas at least once a week. No real pressure, just a gentle reminder to balance myself with my goals. Kind of a visual nudge, I guess.
Color is constantly influencing me from choosing what to wear, to creating an appetizing meal, to seeing a rose -to -lemon sunrise on my way to work! Its broad spectrum and depth delight me everywhere I look! Color changes in relation to its surroundings. This brilliance of color color and its changeability cause me to be aware of the corresponding qualities in my life. It reminds me, also, how who or what I am near to has a great influence on how I perceive things!
Color, anyone?
Remembering one moment in time...
late afternoon companyIt is early on a beautiful rainy day, dark and enveloping, chilly , yet I am fortunate enough to be able to wrap myself in warmth! I face the blank paper and draw out from my mind a memory of yesterday, a reflection on one small moment in time. Its importance lies in recognizing the dignity of each person and the need for allowing the spirit time and space for quietness. I am surprised at how much I actually recall! Remembering imagery and relationships between colors, shapes, lines and values seems to get better with consistent practice and and focused intention during each day. For instance, I "bookmark" key moments in my head as they happen and store them for future reference.