For me, creative work is a lifeline. And ironically, whenever I get really busy, I seem to have more ideas! I've started a university degree, and I find that even though I'm busy keeping up with study and assignments, the new knowledge and mental work are inspiring my creativity. So my creative resolution for this New Year is to make sure that I set aside time to get those ideas onto paper, and keep my sketchbook to hand.
I know many artists like to start a new sketchbook each year, but I don't generally divide up time that way, so it suits me to continue my old one. It can be a useful strategy if you need a fresh start, though. The main thing is to actually use it.
I know many artists like to start a new sketchbook each year, but I don't generally divide up time that way, so it suits me to continue my old one. It can be a useful strategy if you need a fresh start, though. The main thing is to actually use it.
How are you going to make sure you have a creative 2012? If you're a bit stuck for areas to work on, here are some suggested New Years Resolutions for Artists. Remember, the key to making a resolution work is that it must be a specific task with a timeline, not some lofty dream expressed in vague terms. You might like to make a vision board to help you focus on your goals. Why not recycle holiday gift packaging as a backing-board, and have a relaxing afternoon making a motivational collage. It's a great activity to do with children, too.
Comments
Thanks for the reminder. I get so tied up in regular life I get very irritable and I realize I haven’t done any art lately.
Thanks for those thoughts.
I had vaguely started to notice the phenomena you mention about ideas and creative urge being parallel to the amount of busyness. I discovered this, and the opposite as well when I had some “spare time” on my hands from uni and work. I had been so looking forward to the time I would have to work on all the ideas for songs and a chance to get some meaningful music practice done. (i’m a music artist – I subscribed to this site for my 13yo son who is a pencil artist).
But when that precious time came, nothing would flow and I didn’t make anywhere near the progress I had anticipated.
Anyway, I have adopted your NYR for myself.
Thankyou.
Here’s to a creatively productive 2012
Gina
Terry, it’s so important – we get tied up in everyday life and realize we are just existing, not doing the stuff we care about.
Thanks for your comment, Gina – I hope yours goes well! I play Cello, and I know that music is one of those things you can’t let slip – it’s like a garden that you have to care for every day. Hmm well I’ll have to think of a better analogy…..