You see how few things you have to do to live a satisfying and reverent life?
~ Marcus Aurelius
I just finished reading Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport and have to say that I greatly enjoyed it, even (or especially) as an IT guy in a previous life. One of the suggestions that Cal gives is to pursue “high-quality leisure”. Low-quality leisure is something like vegging out in front of a TV (or computer screen). High-quality engages your mind and often your body. We’ve all experienced being more tired than when we began “doing nothing” after an evening (or day) of binge-watching a show. Our brains often don’t require a break, but a shift in gears. So, after a day’s work we need to do something else invigorating (like making art!) to wrap up the day and to keep us energized. And fortunately for us artists, the work of making art can actually be play!
- This week’s artist – Philip Graveson – is a local who creates amazing, functional work. My dad was a metalworker turned self-taught blacksmith and my step-dad is a machinist and woodworker. So I know what is involved in making detailed metal and wood pieces. Philip masterfully combines these two mediums and creates gorgeous pieces of art that can be used. I’ve been able to visit his workshop and his enthusiasm is absolutely contagious – from the current project to the tools that he’s working with, you can’t help but share in his excitement as he shares his work with you. He definitely finds his work to be play! Check out more of his work on his website.
- The Scrapbook Nook has a variety of classes this week: Saturday at 10 and Thursday at 1 they have open class days. Thursday at 1 they’ll be making Easter cards. Today is the last day to enter their February art contest and tomorrow they’ll be announcing March’s on their blog! If you haven’t heard, Julie Nutting will be guest teaching two classes March 16th – if you’re interested, you have to sign up by March 6th to reserve your spot.
- Local creative Business spotlight – Scenic Aperature – We have a few businesses in Durango that focus on supporting local creatives. Frank, the founder of Scenic Aperature, recalls many people encouraging and mentoring him as he developed as a photographer. He offers opportunities for others through photography workshops – “unique and exciting opportunities to photograph North America’s most scenic areas while providing meaningful learning opportunities for photographers of every skill level“. If you’re interested in becoming a better photographer, check out upcoming workshops here. Swing by Scenic Aperature for inspiration at 708 Main Avenue.
- There is still time to enter Studio &’s upcoming juried show – “TRUTH”. Here are details if you might be interested.
- There will be a pop-up Winter Art Sale at Handcrafted House tomorrow (Friday) from 3-7pm. Swing by and check out the live music and work by Jenn Rawling, Lucy Blue Designs and Studio 451 Jewelry at Handcrafted House – 1323 E. 2nd Avenue
- Our first art contest of the year wrapped up on Friday and you can see the winners below. You can see all of the entries here. We’re putting the finishing touches on the next contest and will give more details next week.
- Sam won first place
- If you weren’t interested in last week’s featured watercolor canvas but you like to play with watercolors, the Daniel Smith Watercolor Grounds give you the option to make your own canvas. You can paint on whatever you can dream of – wood, metal, ceramic, plastic, glass, board and more! Just throw some ground down, let it cure, and start painting. You can choose from transparent, white, black, gold, pearl white and buff. The world can be your watercolor oyster!
When I think of high-quality leisure, Winston Churchill always comes to mind. He found that by turning to another activity – one that was different from his central work – he could return to his labor truly refreshed and start cranking out top-notch stuff once more. He also recommended that the most effective, restorative hobbies were those that “call into use those parts of the mind which direct both eye and hand.” That sounds like a creative pursuit to me!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew
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