our fancy photo studio: window + black cloth + cat
The turning of the year is a traditional time for contemplation. I’ve been reviewing what I’ve done, goals reached and not reached. Getting our course running was a big one for 2015 and we are so happy with how it’s going.
I ask myself – how will I embrace my creativity more in the new year?
I’m a fan of the 365 type projects but have never dared to set one up. You know – the committment to doing some creative thing every day for a year and documenting it as a way to share and be accountable. 52 week ones are enticing too. Signing up for a course (ours, wink wink) or class is another good way to kickstart your creativity and meet other artists.
I think finding a community of like minded folks is crucial for artists of all kinds to thrive. Start hanging out where artists that you like hang out. pinterest and instagram are great ways to find online places for that, but don’t forget about real life locations. The Artist’s Way, a classic creativity boosting book, encourages artist dates. I’m a big fan of these:
The Artist Date is a once-weekly, festive, solo expedition to explore something that interests you. The Artist Date need not be overtly “artistic” — think mischief more than mastery. Artist Dates fire up the imagination. They spark whimsy. They encourage play. Since art is about the play of ideas, they feed our creative work by replenishing our inner well of images and inspiration. When choosing an Artist Date, it is good to ask yourself, “what sounds fun?” — and then allow yourself to try it.
Some of my 2016 creative goals are:
- Finishing 2 more courses in 2016, mold making and something TBA
- Making new pieces for several collaborative photo shoots
- Producing some non-wearable art items from Organic Armor (sculpture)
- Making an Organic Armor puppet
How about you? Are you looking to explore new materials, push the limits of the ones you already love, try something completely different? Some people have shared some of their goals on our Facebook page. Add yours if you like.
Organic Armor Arts is a good place to start. But whatever you focus on, we wish you lots of time, energy and inspiration in 2016!