Winter Snow…
Still, I wanted to share a watercolour that I created in an art class some years ago. We were a small group of friends, gathered together with an impossibly creative teacher, Linda Cameron. Somehow, some way, we…a small and merry group of women, had learn-ed ourselves into the ‘right’ way to paint…drawing lines, and laboriously colouring between the lines. Linda was challenged with ‘un-teaching’ us; encouraging us to paint from the heart, rather than from the head. After decades of me trying exceedingly hard to take the fun out of painting, I can’t tell you what a relief it was to let go and truly enjoy playing with paint. I’ll be honest; I still find myself slipping backwards….back to the days of trying too hard…but I tell you, when I permit myself to play, and paint from the heart, that’s when the magic happens.
These past weeks have had me noodling over the creative content of my blog. Me, myself, and I, have, as a team, concluded that it’s not about the number of posts, but rather about marrying the genius that is technology together with the creative arts that I love. You may recall that one of my reasons for starting this little blog was to hop on the techie train. Fortunately, and surprisingly to me, I have discovered that technology and creative arts can not only be friends, but each can literally fuel the other with an intensity I never imagined. It’s good, yes it is! But, it’s also a little bit like opening Pandora’s box. It’s been a bit like a creative explosion…not only have I re-ignited my passion for textile arts, but now I want to explore photography, creative writing, video…and who knows what else. In typical Type One behavior, I have become a little overwhelmed with the many creative ideas rotating in my brain at the moment. What to do? Let it be just what it is.
I promise you, I have been wearing clothing the last couple of weeks. Perhaps even wearing some blog worthy clothing. I have been doing some creative arts. But mostly, I have been happily in my head. There’s a lot going on in there right now, but I know well enough now to understand it’s part of the creative cycle.
Linking with:
Jann of Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson for Share Your Cup Thursday
55 Comments
I can't believe you paint too!! I love to paint, even if I'm dreadful at it. I'm blissfully untrained though, so if anything comes out good; it's a happy accident:)
I totally get what you're saying in this post. I had a block…I just couldn't sew. I wasn't unhappy, I had tons of ideas…almost like I wanted to do so much I couldn't commit to one thing. The Pandora's box…a perfect explanation!!
That is a stunning picture! I love it. I like to paint too, but I also feel very limited by what and how I was taught to paint (very precisely).
Sue this painting is a stunner! You are one talented lady in so many ways. I agree blogging does get the creative wheels spinning, I'm looking forward to seeing what is next for you.
blue hue wonderland
I get it Sue. Sometimes spending time as you describe is what is needed and is to be honored. Your painting is beautiful! You have so much talent to express. I'm eager to see what happens next!
Oh, dear friend, this is so magical ….. I wish you much happiness for these dates that are coming, and that your mind is a source of creativity and beauty projects. Lot of kisses.
What a beautiful painting and a reminder that when we listen to our heart magical things can happen!
Your painting is beautiful. I wonder if you have to learn the “rules” in order to let go of them and allow that magic to happen? If you need time for your ideas and creative plans to brew, then that's fine with me. I will be waiting with bated breath for Sue's Next Big and Brilliant Thing! xxxxxx
This painting you created, along with your blog post, are both so lovely. It's a calming breath for my morning. (: I love the thought of you creating happily away, whether in front of or away from the computer.
I relate to having too many appealing projects at once! It can be an embarrassment of riches at times.
What a stunning painting. I never would have guessed it is watercolour. Did you flick acrylic on the top to get that desired effect? I love it.
A true creative mind is always scurrying here and there, never resting always filled with more and more ideas. I think that is partly why I find it hard to sleep at night.
I need to take a page from your book and devote more time to being creative. I've neglected that this year.
bisous
Suzanne
I'm totally in love with your painting. I envy your wide array of creative talents and I look happily forward to future blog posts. I'm delighted that your blog reflects a diversity of artful ideas. Sometimes I think that those of us who are not purists of anything other than following our creative impulses, should form a blog alliance of sorts. Then I would have a niche. You are a skilled writer indeed. I am always brightened by one of your thoughtfully written and entertaining posts.
Sue you are so talented! The painting is so beautiful and magic, as if you give us a glanze in a fairy tale.
I look forward to seeing to what your creative sense leads to.
Love that painting! And yes for me too snow is far prettier on canvas! It wears me out now–too hard to get around on ice.
Blogging can stimulate my creative juices and sometimes it sucks them dry! Right now im on this video exploration–so Im having fun! Xoxo
I liked so much reading this post. I feel very identified.
And that watercolour painting is wonderful!!
Lovely post, Sue. And as you know, I love, love, love that painting of yours!
Shirl
Sue, this is a great post! The painting is beautiful, and so evocative. Good thing you weren't trying to do it the *right* way!
I have very similar thoughts to you, wanting to go down new creative avenues. I even thought about trying acting ! ! I know, right? Blogging has opened up so many possibilities, way beyond dressing up, and I just wish I had more time to try all the ideas I have!
Love how you phrased your thoughts Amy. I agree completely!
Thank you Sheila! Hmmm….perhaps we should have painted while wearing the yellow skirt…all things seemed possible then. 🙂
Oh Ann, thank you so much for your compliment! I admire your work so very much…You definitely create from the heart! It shows in your beautiful work.
Thank you Judith. I knew you would understand the space I'm in. On the outside, it may look like I'm doing nothing, but things are buzzing inside.
Kisses to you too Rosy! Thanks for stopping by.
Aw, thanks Marjorie! They can and do happen!
Good point Curtise! It may depend entirely on the individual. I can see that I did hold certain beliefs about art, and basically took lessons learning those rules. You may be right in that I may not have been in a space to allow the magic to happen until after I had gone down the road I did. Thanks for the insight!!! xo
Thanks Aya…how apropos…an embarrassment of riches…we really are so lucky to be drawn to creating.
Thanks so much for the kind words Suzanne! You are spot on. When the painting was complete, I applied white acrylic paint with a shake of an old toothbrush. A very brave act on my part, LOL.
I agree about the sleep, or lack thereof. When I have the time, I love to lie in bed just after waking…sorting ideas that have come in the night.
Just remember the cycle…We can't be *doing* all the time. Sometimes it's about receiving the ideas…so I don't think you've neglected your creativity, just channeling things a little differently for now.
Thank you Dana! Oh, We are kindred spirits! Sometimes I think of myself as Jack of all traders, master of none…but I much, much prefer your words. We are simply drawn to following creative impulse! And yes, I too sometimes feel that I can't find my niche. But like a record stuck in a groove, I am slowly creating it. Please join me!!
Oh, lovely Sabine…you capture magic with your photos, so your comments are very much appreciated!
Well said Paula. How often must well tell ourselves it's about balance, LOL. I haven't actually tried any video…happy to hear you're having fun with it.
Ah Merche, I'm glad you can relate. You are a great talent yourself, and working with my most favourite medium, fabric!
Thanks Shirl….haven't seen any post-it notes on the painting, 😉
Okay Val….again we are on the same page of the same book at the same time. And about acting, I say Go for it! I think you'd have a blast, and it really is about fun! You're not far from Ashland, a very happening place in a Bard kind of way!
Let if flow, let it flow, let it flow.
Came here after seeing your comment on Curtise's post and have to say what a beautiful painting that is, I want to look at your other posts now and see more of your art. I have had times when my head is reeling with ideas and thoughts and it's a good feeling, wish it happened more! I find it hard to let go of trying to draw or paint “properly” too, but when I can just stop thinking and just go with the flow, not really thinking consciously about it, I enjoy it much more, and I think the results are better too. xx
Snow definitely looks magical and enchantig. (Although it is quite a foreign concept here in Australia). This picture is so beautiful and impressive. The work of a true genius.
Hi Sue!
First what a beautiful painting, watercolor you did – I know what you mean about painting with the heart – I took a drawing course a couple of years ago and gee was it hard for me – I could not let myself go- I guess i was trying to draw with my head instead of my heart –
I did some abstract paintings and it went better, i can let myself go more- I paint with my heart i guess –
I must be a type 1 cause i get those to, cycle of million ideas in my mind –
I would love to do more art as well, paint and photography –
Hugs
Arianexo
I'm so glad you posted this Sue. I've been overwhelmed and “in my head” for a little while now. There's so much I want to write about, a new project on the go, and, you know, life. At first it was fun to know my imagination still worked, but got less fun when “overwhelmed” came to play. Now that I see it can be part of the process I feel much better. Thanks!
Sue, this post is so beautiful, and I it really touched my heart. I too felt a frantic frenzy to do all that I see other bloggers do. To a point that I began to feel down. Then after talking things out, I realized that I don't have to do what everyone else is doing and just be me…and let my blog be an example of the simplicity that I love.
Your painting is beautiful and inspiring.
Beautiful painting! I know exactly how you feel, it's just part of the creative process. Right now I am suffering from the reverse. I'm hoping after the holidays are over with I will get back to making some stuff, heaven knows I have enough ideas just sitting around.
Your painting is lovely!
Your painting is wonderful! You sure have a lot of talent! Awesome that you want to try new things and be creative with your life and your blog! I am happy that you are just being you as that is perfect!
Rebecca
http://www.winnipegstyle.ca
It must be lovely to be creative in the sense of painting, drawing and sewing. These are not skills I posses, but I admire them intensely and I can see the joy it brings. Blogging is the first hobby I have that I really enjoy for a longer period. And as you say, it pushes you into areas like photography, lay-out, technology. I find your painting very beautiful and love all the happiness going on in your head. Please hold on to it.
Merry Christmas
Greetje
You painted that? It's beautiful! I do agree that snow looks very lovely….however, since I live in a place where we've already had over 20 inches of snowfall this year…I prefer it in pictures than in real life!
I love your painting, Sue! You can express your creative personality in many ways…
it's wonderful to learn something new every day! I like your blog because there is much more than just fashion in it!
Sue, your painting is wonderful! That needs to be framed and hanging on your wall. I love the way snow makes everything look magical. Our ground is covered here. The older I get, the less I like the cold. I love it when there is snow on the ground and the sun is shining! When it gets mush and dirty I'm ready for Spring. lol! Thanks for sharing your amazing talent with SYC. Can't wait to see more in the New Year! Merry Christmas!
hugs,
Jann
What a beautiful painting, Sue. The barn reminds me of an old crumpling barn that used to be visible, but only just, from my grandparents' property in Saskatchewan. So good to hear that blogging has ignited so many creative energies in you. Sometimes it can go the other way! Have a very Happy holiday season. Xoxo
Merry Christmas girl! 🙂 xx
I spend quite a lot of time inside a head…my own. It's a great destination, and I highly recommend it.
I so appreciate this post – I too have been in my head lately!! Your painting talent is incredible and I'd love to see you post more of them. They'd be great post prompts for you and visual clues for us (readers) to see what's going on! Chloe just posted about how much she loves the snow, but I'm the opposite. Come winter cold, I retreat indoors physically, and inside my head, mentally. It's just a comfortable process I used to fight annually, but I'm ok with it this year. And we also are steering from blogging just about clothes – we have so much more going on!
Happy Holidays,
xox ~kim (and chloe)
Brilliant blog, great posts and beautiful proprietress! What to want more …
I'd love to follow you (bloglovin + GFC) and welcome to visit my
blog about fashion – KatherineUnique.blogspot.com.
Regards,
Katherine Unique
What a lovely pictures!
I wish you a wonderful day 🙂
Maybe we can follow each other on GFC , facebook and Bloglovin, if you want? Let me know 🙂
Kisses,
Maria
http://retrostreetstation.blogspot.de/
Here again, Sue ! Just to wish you a wonderful Happy Christmas!!
Lovely life lessons, all in an art class! I'm with you; paintings turn out most happily when I stop trying so hard to control absolutely everything…when I let wonderful things happen instead of forcing perfection. I love the swirling snow and and the sense of infinite stars…or snowflakes…or both…in your painting. Magical indeed.
I am always grateful for your posts and your comments, and above all to have you in my life.
Happy New Year, dear Sue.
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i'm excited to see where you take the blog. happy holidays!!! i love your painting.
Lovely painting! Great muse. Thank you Sue, for your fun visit and compliments. Hoping your 2014 is marvelous! ♥
How could I have missed this post when it speaks directly to my own heart as well? A talk I gave at an art gallery once was called Unlearning How to Paint. I love this watercolour. And I'm glad you're wearing clothes – it would be VERY creative not to. I also love the possibilities that technology and traditional arts open up. I am excited to see where all that swirling bursting imagination of yours will lead.