Monday, March 19, 2012

Some things that are inspiring me right

As I develop my painting skills, I continue to be inspired by many artists and books.

Right now I am reading The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp - I am so inspired and motivated by her approach to developing creativity and to producing works of art. She writes that you must first hone and re-hone your skills so that when that lucky break comes along, you are ready to take it. She feels that creating a routine - a ritual if you will - is vital to improving and excelling in your chosen field of endeavor, be it painting, writing, dance, or business. Once you have the skills for creating in your craft, you can use them to express your ideas in a coherent and artistic way to which others can relate, learn from, and enjoy.  I can't recommend this book enough to anyone who is striving to be an artist or writer, or to anyone stuck in a rut in their chosen field.

In addition, I am inspired by Brenda Swanson's blog - yesterday she had a great post on making swatch cards in which you can identify which watercolor paints are transparent, opaque, or semi-opaque. It seems so many people continually ask instructors in workshops how to know which paints are which. I cut out 2 inch squares of watercolor paper, marked them with a black Sharpie line, and this afternoon will paint on them and label them. Then into a notebook so I can always reference them.

Another blog that I truly enjoy is Terri Windling's The Drawing Board - I think I have mentioned her blog before but I can't tell you how much I enjoy her blog every morning (as well as that of Amanda Soule's Soulemama.

Just a few happy ramblings today - thanks for reading.

1 comment:

Julie Tucker-Wolek said...

So beautiful Chris!! Have a wonderful week!!