Sometimes all you need for exceptional results is average effort repeated for an above-average amount of time.
~ James Clear
I recently read this conversation thread about someone who started playing chess 2 years ago and has gotten pretty good. They’re looking for advice to get even better. My primary takeaway from reading through it is this: We think we’ll improve by playing MORE. But if you play and study, you’ll get better FASTER. – This general concept applies to anything we are trying to learn or improve – including our creative pursuits!
- This week’s artist is – Debra Bernier – whose work a friend recently shared with me. She uses natural materials, such as driftwood, clay, and shells to create mesmerizing sculptures. Be sure to check out her instagram for even more!
- John Linnell would have been 231 on Friday!
- I love seeing different mediums that a creative person works in.
- 2022 Astronomy Photographer of the Year winning images.
- Here’s a brief look at old master painting palettes.
- This is an interesting two-color palette (and advice on how to use it.)
- This quick guide on transparency and opacity in paint is a good reference.
- Have some empty spray paint cans (perhaps after last week’s product highlight)? Here’s a guide on how to make a lamp from one.
- I really enjoyed reading this description of how Rubens worked.
- Just for fun, here’s an extra fabulous pigeon.
- Speaking of fun – sending some scavenger hunt postcards could be a lot of fun!
- As much as the art world changes, we are often using techniques and materials available hundreds of years ago. Similarly, medieval carpenters are using 13th-century techniques to rebuild Notre Dame.
- When the Eiffel Tower was being built, it wasn’t popular, perhaps especially by artists.
- London’s Wallace Collection has a new exhibition – Portraits of Dogs.
- Hear live music on Friday night’s at Fox Fire Farms! Music, food and wine. Free admission, seating on spacious lawn. Bring rain gear if there is a chance of rain. This week head out from 6-9 to hear Patrick Crossing.
- It’s the third Saturday of the month, which means it’s time for the monthly Hermosa Cafe Art Mart Soiree. Head over from 4:30-8:30 for an evening of art and self expression – an art market with party atmosphere. There will be artisan vendors, interactive art demonstrations, live music and performance art, free kids projects, active mural wall and costume contest. Artists and performers can sign up on instagram @Hermosacafeartlot.
- Drop by Guild House Games on Monday from 6:30-9 for the free, weekly Chess Club.
- The next two weeks are the Durango Public Library’s Literary Festival (from the 19-30th). They’re offering a full lineup of fun and unique events celebrating all things literary! From writing workshops and Book Clubs to open mics and author events, they’ve got something the whole community can enjoy! Check their calendar to see what’s going on.
- If you’re a beginner/intermediate acoustic music player looking to play more – head to the General Palmer on Tuesday from 5:30-7:30 for the Slow Bluegrass Jam. This weekly jam is welcoming to all players, with a focus on slower tempo improvisation solos and chord changes. If you can play the I, IV and V chords in G, D and A then you know enough to play at this jam!
- There are classes/workshops/projects available at the Dancing Spirit Community Arts Center, Let’s Letter Together, the Scrapbook Nook, Create Art and Tea, the 4 Corners Gem and Mineral Club, 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.
- Kristen recently tried a new brand of acrylic paint marker… and quite quickly fell head over heels for it. It didn’t take long before we reached out to the manufacturer to find out how we cold offer Tooli markers here at the store. After a bit of back and forth we finally had our order placed and… they’re here! Basically, there are a lot of great things to say about them (viewing window to see level and mix, replacable tips, fabulous color range, excellent opacity) but one of the biggest things is the value for the cost. Kristen and Monica did a phenomenal job building a display, making color swatches, and getting everything arranged. Swing by today to check out these exciting new goodies!
It’s easy to get caught up in just wanting to make a lot of art. OR. It’s easy to get caught up in watching, reading, and learning about new ways of making art. However, we need both of those! Each should inform the other. They should work together to form a positive growth spiral. We make something. Then learn something (get feedback, research how to get past a sticking point, find the missing material we needed). Then we make something else – hopefully improved from the last time based on our learning. And the cycle repeats. Over time, a series of incremental improvements really adds up. A 1% gain each day will double in 72 days.
One artist whose work I follow uses the term “brush mileage”. He continues to learn more, but puts what he learns into practice. He makes sure to spend enough time working on his art, getting his brush miles in for the day. I like this concept and use the phrase as a reminder to practice.
No matter where you are on your creative journey, there is something new to learn and try. No matter where you are, you have to keep in practice. Get your brush/pencil/needle/marker miles in. No matter where you are on your creative journey, the world needs your art!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew