| The world is a very malleable place. If you know what you want, and you go for it with maximum energy and drive and passion, the world will often reconfigure itself around you much more quickly and easily than you would think. ~ Marc Andreessen |
I recently read an article discussing a creator’s boxes and tools. Boxes could be the literal boxes that materials are stored in, larger spaces like the studio or gallery itself (a box for creative activities and their results), or conceptual boxes such as the method of sharing our work (working within a gallery space, pursuing publications, on a website, etc). Tools are the things that we use to turn materials from one box into a finished piece for another. They could be tangible objects (paintbrush, hammer, baking sheet, or yarn) or intangible ones (software, AI-assistant, or systems and habits).
- This week’s artist is – Werner Bronkorst – whose work I just ran across – and immediately had to share! (Especially with the recent weather.) I love the texture of his paintings! This short video was my first introduction. Check out his website and instagram for more.
- Yves Tanguy would have been 123 tomorrow (Thursday).
- Do you know how fire reacts to a joke? It charcoals.
- These wildlife photography winners of 2022 are worth checking out.
- Here’s a short documentary on how Fleischer Studios made cartoons.
- For something that’s hands-on in a different way, here’s how to film a burger dropping into a chef’s hand.
- This is a short guide to block printing, using speedy carve blocks.
- The Tugboat printshop has a huge woodblock print currently in the works. They’re carving four of those (that overlap/line up) to complete the print!
- Typewolf is a site for finding new typefaces and font pairings, if you’re looking for such things.
- The Bayfield Library has a Community Knitting and Crochet Group that meets on Sundays from 1-3pm. Whehter you’ve been knitting/crocheting for years or want to learn, you’re welcome to come join in the fun!
- There’s live music scattered about town this week. You can look here to see who’s playing, where, and when.
- There are classes/workshops/projects available at Create Art and Tea, the Durango Arts Center, Let’s Letter Together, the 4 Corners Gem and Mineral Club, and the Scrapbook Nook. There are a lot more things happening that I don’t include – so if you’re ever looking for something to do, start at WhatsHappeningDurango.com.
- This week’s featured “product” is advice. We’re always happy to answer questions, give advice, point you to a new material to try out, and generally chat about art supplies. Whether you’re stuck on a project, not sure where to go next, or want to try out something new as part of a resolution – come by and chat! We love to say hi! (And, no, Yoda’s not for sale.)
Continuing to think about boxes and tools, I recently read a couple of magazine articles about art studio design. They stressed the importance of ensuring that the space (the box) encouraged creating – that the studio didn’t hinder the process of creative pursuits. Whatever it looks like for you, make sure that your tools are conveniently located in your box so that you can keep on making. As always, the world needs your art!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew