| Don’t bend; don’t water it down; don’t try to make it logical; don’t edit your own soul according to the fashion. Rather, follow your most intense obsessions mercilessly. ~ Franz Kafka |
It’s easy to get caught up in creating artwork that others will like – either just for compliments or to sell it. It’s easy to see work by others, especially on social media, and it can seem like that’s what everyone is making – like you’re the only one who isn’t doing the same thing. It can be scary to create artwork just for yourself, that you know some people won’t like. Fortunately, there are great rewards in making art just for yourself.
- This week’s artist is – Lucia Heffernan – whose calm, flexible, and undeniably adorable brood of chicks caught my attention. With 6 chickens at home, I just might be biased. Either way, I thought these were too much fun not to share. See more of her work on her website or instagram (I like the ninja rabbit)!
- Want to paint your own yoga chicks? Strathmore has a free intro to oil painting course.
- Painting small? Here is some advice on how to make your small paintings feel bigger.
- There’s a lot of painting advice in this video, but it generally focuses on using a limited color palette.
- Want to make your paintings better? Here are 9 small tips.
- Finished painting and ready to varnish? Here’s a guide.
- This video discusses oil paint mediums and varnishes.
- These extreme close-up photos of eyes really show their details.
- Sticking two things together and not sure what glue to use? ThisToThat.com is a great reference for future sticky issues!
- The Union Social House is hosting a Holiday Market on Saturday and Sunday from 2-7.
- I get far too excited about coffee, so I had to rush over once I discovered there’s a new shop opening in the Main Mall. Stimulus Cafe and Coffee House‘s grand opening isn’t until January 2nd, but they’re currently working through their soft opening. Swing by from 7-5 to check them out and warm up a bit.
- Need to get out of the house a bit? Swing by Lively (A Boutique) for Free Yoga Friday from 8:30-9:30 am. Bring your own yoga mat and water bottle. Limited space, so be sure to reserve your spot at livelyaboutique.com.
- There’s live music scattered around town this week.
- The Durango Arts Center has a lot of things going on – classes and events for kids of all ages. Check them out here. Maybe the Art of Painting,Youth Theatre’s Willy Wonka Jr, , or check out their Jingle Jangle Improv.
- The ScrapBook Nook has a class or workshop scheduled almost every day of the week.
- Still looking for greeting cards? We have some designed by a past employee. You can get each of 3 designs individually, or a multi-pack with one of each.
Bill Watterson said, “To invent your own life’s meaning is not easy, but it’s still allowed, and I think you’ll be happier for the trouble.” If the work you’re making doesn’t reflect your true creative passion, then it won’t fulfill you. And if you don’t make room for more authentic work, you’ll have regrets later in life. If you’re in the process of planning for next year, don’t forget – the world needs your art!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew