Restrictions multiply creativity.
It might not be true in all parts of life, but as far as creativity goes – unlimited options so frequently result in paralysis. If you can do anything, with anything, then your mind goes crazy with all of the potential options – it seems to be overwhelmed and just goes blank. When you narrow down your options, when you impose limits, then all of a sudden you can dive into your work. (At least, that’s how it works for me.)
- You may have see work from this week’s local artist – Ann Salviazul – at Studio & – she recently had the show “Reflections on Homelessness” there. Since I just spent far too much time checking out her Instagram feed, I can only say that you have to check out the art on her website and her Instagram – it’s gorgeous!
The Scrapbook Nook has a variety of classes this week: Thursday at 1 they have an Open Class if you want to create with company. Saturday at 10 is your chance to try out Glaze Pens in the coloring class. Tuesday at 1 you can explore scrapbook Chemistry as you experiment with and learn about a wide variety of different materials. Their March art contest has been announced! You can find out the details here and see the inspiration image below:
- If you’re looking for some art inspiration, this video shares a great tip for something that’s almost as good as a trip to an art museum.
- Did you know that March is National Craft Month?
- 14th – Children’s Craft Day
- 16th – National Quilting Day
- 30th – National Pencil Day
- 31st – National Crayon Day
- The Durango Celtic Festival is coming up this weekend, Thurs-Sunday. After living in Ireland for 4 months, visiting the Irish Embassy or hearing some Irish jigs or pub songs always bring back fond memories. Check out the festival schedule here.
- Here’s a video of how to paint billowy clouds in watercolor. Even if you aren’t specifically interested in learning about clouds he gives some examples of the difference that paper quality makes.
- Our second art contest of the year will be announced on Friday. Follow us on Instagram for the announcement!
- This week’s featured product is the line of Golden’s Open Acrylics. If you love the working time of oils and the lack of fumes from acrylics – Open Acrylics are for you! Their increased working time allows you to include more traditional techniques that were once only possible with acrylics. And since they dry slowly, you don’t waste as much paint!
Limits in art can mean so many things! Maybe you only work with one subject (for a time) or pick a specific material to do a deep-dive with. Perhaps you select a particular size, like miniatures or extra-large or extreme landscapes. In honor of National Craft Month, you could only work with crayons or graphite or scissors and construction paper! As always with creativity and art, the world is full of possibilities and it’s a create-your-own-adventure!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew
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