Sometimes it is necessary to take a day or two to replenish the well. Lately I’ve been feeling burned out to the point of just wanting to stay in bed some mornings. That’s not an option, and I know it wouldn’t help in the long run (I tend to get down on myself for indulging in such non-productive behavior), but sometimes it is ok to take a day to play with something I love to do. Yesterday, it was drawing with my beloved Caran D’Ache Neocolor II water soluble crayons.
Since the point of this activity was to have fun, I didn’t sweat setting up a large still life or anything complex. Instead I went to my jewelry collection, and drew one of my favorite necklaces. I chose to focus in on one of the floral beads and the wonderful little coral pieces. Since I am using a smaller drawing pad (Strathmore Artagain black, size 6” x 9”), this filled the space quite nicely.
Last spring I purchased this happy little bluebird at a local nursery, and today he made a nice subject for a second drawing. I love the contrast of the bright blue against the sunny orange.
I actually drew this picture a few weeks ago. I was inspired by my bird of paradise work, and wanted to do something similar with another flower. A trip to a local florist yielded this beautiful iris. And yes, it is in process as a stitched image.
I really enjoy working this way, and have a few more drawings planned. And tomorrow I will return to the studio refreshed and ready to get back to work.
What do you do when you need to recharge?
I am with you there. I just finished up some collages, and that was a charge. I am so wrapped up in sewing right now, the actual process, that doing something fast and fun was a blast. I even woke up this morning with an idea for finishing another piece I had started awhile back. Hurrah for refreshing!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful drawings. Sometimes it's just wonderful to draw straight from the heart. Last week when I was feeling burned out I went to the studio and painted all day. At the end I was rejuvenated and exhausted all at the same time. Good job on being gentle with yourself!
ReplyDeleteThese are beautiful! My medium of choice the past few years is photoshop. I say photoshop because the work I do for sale is digital art more than photography, but it begins with photos. When I am burnt out I take a photo walk. Sometimes I go to a favorite park or town, sometimes the back yard is enough. I go without intention and shoot what strikes me and I fine it rejuvenating as well as usually pretty inspiring as I remember art is everywhere. Lately though I have been compelled to draw and paint again which is where I started many years ago. I will enjoy watching what you do!
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