| In the end, only three things matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you. ~ Buddha |
I was to write a book, it would be titled Life on Purpose. Not that I really plan on writing a book, but I think that living an intentional life is vital. The value of “on purpose” is that it allows you to focus on what you can control and helps you accept what you can’t. It helps steer you toward your big goals in life, and away from things you want to avoid. These things change over time and hopefully it helps you adjust to that change, as well. It’s interesting to see the journey that today’s artist has taken, and how his life has been tailored to his particular circumstances.
- This week’s artist is – Michael Nobbs – whose work I ran across some years ago! Even though I generally have more than enough energy, I appreciate his approach to life. It’s refreshing to have a regular, calming podcast to listen to. I appreciate the reminder to notice the small things of beauty that surround us every day. Of course, I’m also quite a fan of daily tea/coffee breaks, art making, and podcasts. Peruse Michael’s books, join him for the One Thing Today podcast, and check out his instagram page.
- There is a full week of classes at the Scrapbook Nook. Join the gals tomorrow at 1 to make an album (and receive a big bag of fun trinkets to play with!) Then on Saturday at 10 you can work with Dylusions Shimmer Sprays while art journaling. Tuesday at 1 you can make some more cards (and you always get a discount on any materials used in the classes). In October they’ve also added a series of open classes at 11am on Wednesdays!
- If you enjoy card manipulations – this stop motion video might be right up your alley.
- The bard of bedtime, Sandra Boynton, says, “Everyone needs chicken sentries”.
- Hot air balloons are taking over Durango this weekend – check out the downtown balloon glow Friday evening and the Animas Valley mass ascension Sunday morning. Great opportunities to photo/paint/draw or otherwise record the event in your own artistic style!
- Are you having fun?
- Here’s how to know if you’re reading the right book. (I think this same advice applies to looking at things, being places and making art.)
- I’ve been perusing the online Van Gogh Museum. (There is also work from his friends and contemporaries, in case you want some variety.)
- Here’s some advice for life – in short poem form.
- Inktober is still chugging along! Are you joining in the fun? Here is more info and here are the prompts. It’s never too late!
- Our next art contest is live. We’ve been pretty painting-focused for the rest of the year so this go-round we’re switching it up. What are you going to do for the Draw Something contest? Check out the contest page on our website. Yes, one of your Inktober drawings can be your submission!
- This week’s featured products are a handful of the different inks that we keep on hand, in honor of Inktober! From different Sumi inks, India inks, a traditional walnut, an opaque white drawing ink… plus a whole array of liquid watercolors, alcohol inks and more! There’s bound to be something that you’ll have fun playing around with.
Recently, I’ve been talking with some friends about the concept of “personal energy management”. While time-management is important, energy is vital to actually getting the work done in the scheduled window. I have family and friends who are (or have been) chronically low on energy due to health. Like Michael Nobbs, they have to pay attention to how they’re doing as they go about their day and adjust accordingly. Like all of us. Sometimes a short nap, getting up and moving, taking a deep breath is all we need to get moving again. Other times, it takes something more. Pay attention to yourself and listen to your cues. The world needs your art – you have to be able to make it!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew
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