Develop interest in life as you see it; in people, things, literature, music – the world is so rich, simply throbbing with rich treasures, beautiful souls and interesting people.
~ Henry Miller
A common refrain I’ve heard over the last decade or so is to “pursue your passion.” Over the last couple of years, that advice seems to be changing more into “develop your passion.” How does one develop a passion? It seems to be by pursuing a craft. I didn’t like the idea of drawing or painting portraits for some time. Then, looking back through old sketchbooks (going back at least into middle school) and I realized that much of my work was figurative – and all of my favorite pieces were! I’d been pursuing portrait work for years and never knew it. Once I embraced that and paid attention to what I was having fun creating, my passion for the work arrived.
- This week’s artist is – Drew Gardner – whose series The Descendants caught my attention a few months ago. You can also read more about the project here. This isn’t Drew’s only project – check out some of his others on his website and instagram!
- Just a heads-up, the Art Supply House‘s last customer appreciation day of 2020 is on Halloween (That’s Saturday)! Bring in your tote bag for discounts. We might have some treats for you and will definitely have a printing demo going that you may get to participate in!
- October 31 is also the last day of the Durango Farmer’s Market. Just a heads-up that if you want to check it out, there are only two more opportunities this year!
- We’ve been really busy in the frame shop at the Art Supply House – if you’re thinking about giving a custom framed piece as a holiday gift, get your appointment scheduled for before November 14th to make sure we can get it done on time!
- The owner of the Starlight Lounge reached out – they’d love to offer weekly paint-and-sip events, but are looking to partner with an artist. If you, or someone you know, might be interested, email Rick for more information.
- Do you ever wonder what the difference between various white paints is? Here’s one explanation.
- I’ve probably shared this before, but if you don’t know what to paint/draw/create next, here are 6 topic suggestions.
- Have you heard of the most famous unknown artist in the world? You’ve likely seen their work.
- Someone asked what artists found most dramatically improved their art – here are their answers. There’s some great advice in there!
- Here’s a tutorial full of tips and techniques for using soft pastels/
- Check out Durango.com events to see the variety of different live music options coming up this week.
- If you haven’t yet received your Art Supply House tote bag, you’ll want one before Saturday’s customer appreciation event (you get bonus discounts when you have the bag). Swing by the store to see how to get yours!
A common story I’ve read is of people working in a field where they could do well (both for themselves and for clients) and realized that as they worked toward mastery of their craft they became passionate about it! What they paid attention to is what they became interested in. Their depth of knowledge of a process (the craft itself) allowed them to appreciate the nuances inherent in their work. Their passion developed as their working ability and knowledge developed.
Already know what you’re passionate about? Excellent! Keep pursuing it! Not sure what your passion might be? Get to work, literally making works, and see what develops. Either way – the world needs your art!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew
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