The past two years I have told myself that I’m going to get serious and practice my drawing skills. I even got a couple books on the topic. The first one, The Artist’s Sketchbook, seemed so inspirational at the bookstore. But when I got home, it felt more like homework than a fun pursuit. So the next book I purchased, The Creative License, appeared to approach the topic in a very constructive yet experimental way that might somehow reach my inner artist. But alas, I have yet to try a single exercise. So yes, I might be lazy you might say. And mr. muse is probably not going to let me buy another book on drawing. So what’s a muse to do?!
Well, on my last major spending spree at the art store to get mats, I picked up a new hardbound sketchbook. And one day, I just sat down with my sketchbook, my soft pastels, and started to sketch away. I didn’t have a plan on what I was going to draw. I didn’t have a goal of a skill that I was going to develop. I just sketched away to my little heart’s content. And five sketches later, I’m starting to understand why I was having difficulty with the books.
If you’ve read any of Julia Cameron’s books that reference the basic tenant of The Artist’s Way, then you’ll probably remember the three pages-a-day rule. Basically, the idea behind it was that by spending time every day to write, we would sift through the clutter thoughts that fill our mind and allow our intuition a place to speak when it felt so inclined.
So of course, now, I’m having that duh! moment when it comes to drawing because it really is the same concept. And part of me is why Julia didn’t offer a “plan b” for us visual artists. So instead of writing, we would draw. Or supplement the writing with drawing. But either way, the drawing would come in a form that we felt in home with.
For me, that’s soft pastels. For others, it might be collage or traditional drawing tools. But really, I think the key is finding the key to the methods you communicate best.
9 Comments
Wow, the work is esquisite and your musing on the topic is inspiring. I like the 3 pages a day idea. I have warded off reading The Artist’s Way because I thought it was more like a “how to” book, but perhaps it’d be worth a read. I haven’t really thought of writing as a way to unjumble my intuition, but it seems like it would.
Thanks for the compliment on my illustration. It’s a mixture of soft pastels with photoshop.
As for the Artist’s Way, it’s a wonderful book, but it has to come to you at the right time and place. If potentially, you are seeking a break through in creativity, it might do you some good because it challenges us in ways that many books never do.
Perhaps it is just that sort of challenge that I am craving? I will swing by a book store and take a peek…see what my intuition tells me. Thanks.
Actually, the best thing I have ever experienced when it comes to finding inspiration is coffee house artist group meetings. One of my girlfriends back home used to run one, and I’ve even given it some thought to start one here locally in Tampa.
Cool. Count me in. I’ll bring the snacks.
I agree with you, surrealmuse, that “The Artist’s Way” must come at the right time. I read it ten years ago, and am now reading it again. You’ve inspired me to get out my sketch pad and canvas!
shamash…can’t wait to see what you create!
I’d totally enjoy a coffee house artist group. That’s a great idea. If you start one in Tampa, I’d attend when I’m in town. Maybe I could start one in the ATL too – then you guys could visit…
Natalie goes through phases, and I like when she picks up this particular book. Really seems to help transition into a creative burst.