| You just have to find that thing that’s special about you that distinguishes you from all the others, and through true talent, hard work, and passion, anything can happen. ~ Dr. Dre |
I get distracted easily and jump from one project to another. In the moment it can be frustrating as I make progress on some project then get distracted by something new and forget about the previous one. However, looking back over time I’ve discovered that there are a few patterns that have emerged – over-arching interests that I return to in different ways. I’ve always been interested in creative pursuits, in business, outdoor adventures, technology, etc. A variety of projects might be oil painting, a charcoal drawing, and a woodworking project. Those are all creative pursuits and the lessons learned in each one informs the others.
- This week’s artist is – Deano Cook – a fine artist who works with paint on canvas, tat toos, and photography – all with a focus under the ocean. I first ran across him via a podcast interview. Be sure to check out his website and instagram for even more!
- Head over and visit Caprice in her new location. Create Art and Tea has moved to 1015 Main Ave. Check out their beautiful new building and all the new artist works. There’s a live workshop today from 6-8
- Nia Sturr’s new mural at the Durango Botanic Gardens (Animas River Trail, 1900 E 3rd Ave) is being celebrated tomorrow (Thurs) from 5-6.
- Here is advice on teaching yourself art.
- Here’s a 4-part introduction to gouache video series.
- These photos of shepherds and their herds are worth checking out.
- In honor of World Watercolor Month, here are 15 watercolor paintings.
- Rembrandt van Rijn would have been 415 tomorrow.
- Confused by acrylic mediums? Liquitex created these downloadable guides to the fundamentals, mediums for prep, mediums for painting, and mediums for varnishing.
- Patrice DeLorenzo has a new show up at Animas Chocolate. It will be displayed until the end of the month. If you want to visit with Patrice, the reception is Thursday from 3-5.
- There is also a lot of live music scattered around town. See who’s playing where here.
- Don’t want to come in to town? Head out to Fox Fire Farms from 6-9 on Friday for live music. Pack your own picnic meal – purchase wine at the winery.
- Friday night, you can watch Finding Nemo for free on the lawn behind Rec Center. Seating starts at 7:45 pm and the movie will start 15 minutes after sunset. Small concessions are available on site. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks.
- Don’t want to sit still? Head to the Chapman Hill Roller Rink from 6-9 for Disco Night. Costs $10.
- Since it’s world watercolor month, these watercolor paint-by-number kits are perfect! If you want a different kind of paint-by-number, an easy introduction to watercolors, or just a project to keep your hands busy, check these out!
It’s invaluable to experiment and try new things – but don’t forget to neglect your passions. The things you are good at and love doing. If you don’t make time for them, you’ll find yourself stuck. You may be excellent at your job, but if you don’t love the work it won’t nourish your soul. If you do love the type of work but not the projects – there will still be something missing. You need to do projects just for the fun of it – just for you. Those random projects sustain you in life, and the world needs you!
Cheers!
Matthew & the Art Supply House crew
P.S. – The county fair is coming up in August and we’ll be running the art show! If you’re planning on entering a piece, it’s time to start getting ready. If you would be able to help volunteer, we could use some assistance (mainly watching the art and making sure people don’t touch it).