Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.
~ Henry Ford
A lot of people come into the store and, at some point, end up saying, “Oh, I can’t draw.” They’re often shopping for someone else or just waiting while a friend browses, but the moment they pick up a sketchbook or glance at an art supply, they feel the need to declare their inability. Not in a dramatic way—more like a fact, as if it’s been decided for them.
But when you ask if they’ve ever really tried to learn, the answer is almost always no. Somewhere along the way, they just accepted the idea that drawing wasn’t for them. Maybe they compared themselves to someone more skilled and got discouraged. Maybe they tried once, didn’t like the results, and gave up. Whatever the reason, they stopped before they ever really started.
- This week’s artist is – Amy Brimhall – a local artist (Farmington). See even more on her website and instagram!
- Rembrandt Peale would have been 247 on Saturday!
- 4 motivational quotes posters to hang in your studio.
- A hidden portrait was recently discovered underneath a Picasso painting. Also, underneath a Titian painting.
- Is my blue your blue? An attempt to answer the question “Do we see the same colors?”
- You can visit dozens of incredible artist-built environments, homes, and studios around the US. The National Trust for Historic Preservation added 19 new properties to its Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios program.
- These Luddite teens carry flip phones, host book clubs, write a print-only snail mail newsletter and make zines.
- Here are some mind blowing images of a humpback whale’s eye.
- Just for fun, Sunday is “National Tile Day” – celebrates the beauty and utility of tiles in our everyday spaces. It’s a day to appreciate how tiles enhance our surroundings with their vibrant designs and durability. It also reminds us of the sustainability and longevity of tiles. They are an eco-friendly choice for flooring and walls due to their low maintenance and long-lasting nature.
Fun Fact: Vincent van Gogh completed over 2,100 artworks, including 860 oil paintings, in just over a decade (which is a piece every 1.7 days and a painting every 4.2).- Art and Found day is March 12th – so there’s time to join in.
- The Word Honey Poetry Workshop is today at the Durango Library from 6-7:30.
- There’s a yarn meetup at the Durango Library on Saturday from 1-3. They’re calling knitters, crocheters, and fiber artists of all ages and levels.
- Sunday is Board Game day at Lola’s Place, from 2-5. Unplug and play every Sunday afternoon! Their cozy cafe is a haven for delicious bites, sips, and board game delights! Bring your friends and family for a laid-back afternoon of good food, great company, and endless fun. Let the games begin!
- There are lots of live music events, open mics, live jam sessions, etc, scattered about the area throughout the week. There are too many to list here, so if you’re looking for such things, head over to WhatsHappeningDurango.com.
- There are classes/workshops/projects available at the 4 Corners Gem and Mineral Club, the Bayfield Library, Create Art and Tea, the Dancing Spirit Center for the Arts, Durango Sustainable Goods, Let’s Letter Together, the MakerLab, Picasso & Vino, the Scrapbook Nook, Seed Studio, and the Durango Arts Center. 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.
- A new batch of yarn arrived late last week with fun new colors and patterns. If you’re looking for a cozy craft, swing by to check out the on-hand options!
- We’re working on updating our frame moulding wall and our frame samples Here’s a new project from the wall. These went from a pile of fabric to this heirloom piece!
You see this pattern everywhere. People write themselves off from learning new things—math, music, business, even hobbies—because they believe they aren’t “naturally” good at them. But skill isn’t something you’re simply born with; it’s something you build. Alex Hormozi, for example, used to struggle with math, but instead of accepting that as an unchangeable fact, he practiced relentlessly until he got good.
The difference between “I can’t” and “I can’t yet” is just the willingness to try. Most people aren’t incapable—they’re just inexperienced. And that’s something they have the power to change.
Is there something you want to make, something you want to use – but don’t feel capable? Maybe not yet, but you can. And you need to – because the world needs your art!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew
P.S. – Ready to create every chance you get? After testing hundreds of supplies, we’ve narrowed down what needs to be in our Curiosity Kit. (Sign up here for the chance to preorder.) It’s compact but capable. Need tutorials? We’ll have them for everything in the kit. Only got 10 minutes? You can still make art. We can help!