I haven't created any art since August... 😬
Hello ArtMaker!
I haven't created any art since August.
I’ve been an “empty nester” since both “kids” moved out of the house and are away at school. It’s safe to say that I have been a bit sad with the house so morgue-like and free of interruptions. I’ve also been a bit burnt out in September and October after my big summer push to have a boothful of art ready at my local Vintage and Art Faire. And to be uncomfortably political and vulnerable, the election results also have me down.
It’s comforting to know that art has always been there for me, waiting for my return especially when I need it most.
I know this feeling in me, and you probably have experienced it too. It's when it’s time to try something new in your creative life to help spark imagination and curiosity as well as recommit to your art practice. And to help ease anxiety and stress, like artmaking always does.
So yesterday when I got the Michael’s email and a 40% off coupon, I ordered a stand up easel (never had one before!) and 6 huge (to me) canvases. I’ve never painted on a huge canvas using an easel before! And I have plans…
First on my list is to recreate Side Eye Sally. This may sound contradictory to trying something new as mentioned above. HOWEVER. I have never tried to recreate my art before, and I plan on using my new easel and a large canvas for this instead of a cabinet panel.
How can I make Side Eye Sally more… side eye? I will be figuring that out with paint, inlays, stamps and of course the decoupage paper.
If you have been following me for a while, you know I made Side Eye Sally last Spring and priced her really high for the Faire so that she wouldn’t sell. And of course, someone else also fell in love with her and happily handed over the cash.
Second on my list is trying Word Art on a large canvas. A creative I follow on Instagram, piccadilly.circus.design, recommended the book “Citizen Printer” by Amos Paul Kennedy. Jr.
Amos Paul Kennedy Jr. is a renowned artist and printmaker celebrated for his bold letterpress prints that blend social commentary with a distinct visual style. His work often addresses themes of race, culture, and politics, reflecting his deep commitment to social justice. Through his art, Kennedy has both preserved traditional printing techniques and engaged audiences in meaningful discourse. I ordered the book and am so inspired by Kennedy’s art. How can I put my own spin on this for causes I believe in?
Third and last on my list is furniture upcycling. It’s time to challenge my skillset and learn new techniques in this area. I’ve been wanting a new challenge, and the universe answered me via text the other day in the form of my neighbor Jason:
I have never upholstered chairs before, how hard can it be? And check out that beautiful headboard below, I totally see a colorful Boho update going on in my bedroom!
It’s comforting to know that artmaking has always been there for you, waiting for your return. Especially when you need it most. You realize that being creative doesn’t just accompany you through life; it’s your compass even when you are not actually creating art.
Be sure to leave a comment and tell me what you think!
P.S. Remember - The act of creating art empowers you, fostering a sense of agency and ownership.