Finding My Own Artsy: Dropping the Ball, Picking Up the Brush

Posted on September 25, 2013

I feel like such a slacker, ya’ll. Not in general, because I’m working my little tushy off doing freelance work for art consultants, galleries and artists— which I’m super excited about! The business of being artsy is picking up steam, but the act of doing anything truly artistic has been on the back burner for what feels like a long time. And I’m definitely feeling its absence.

It’s funny how being in the desert, which wasn’t necessarily our ideal spot, fostered a creative spark I hadn’t felt in a while. I think it had much to do with three things: the lack of distractions around us, Mr. F doing online coursework meaning lots of evenings and weekends I was left at loose ends, and probably the main reason– a lack of tv in our Joshua Tree rental. I’m working hard, sitting in front of the laptop for at least 8 hours each day and there is always more to be done, so I’m finding it difficult to truly disconnect. But I do so want to. But this blank page is very intimidating right now!

I want to start a little daily creative ritual. But where to begin? I’m almost fearful of even mentioning it here because what if I punk out and don’t keep up with it? So I want to know, especially from those that are working artists AND working at another job– how do you carve out the time? Do you find yourself doing little things daily or do you save up all that energy for occasional, long, productive creative bursts?

And any recommendations for a small paint-friendly sketch book? The paper in my current sketchbook is more for dry media and I’d really like to start a little daily paint practice of some kind. I know, excuses. Just wanted to through this out there, let you know that if you’re struggling with the same, you are not alone!

All images by Artsy Forager.

Lesley

Painter, art and artist consultant, traveler, discoverer-- Lesley Frenz blogs and paints her way throughout the West Coast and Northwest, sharing the work she finds significant and meaningful. All while highly caffeinated.

Katy Marriott Owen

September 25, 2013 at 2:03 PM

I can relate, there are always so many other ‘more important’ things that come first (mostly, for me, in the shape of small children). Currently I attempt to satisfy my creative urge by dedicating at least half a day a week to it. I would love more time tho’. Maybe one day….

Lesley
September 25, 2013 at 7:26 PM
A 1/2 day each week sounds like a good way to dedicate time.. Katy do you try to keep it to the same day each week or just whatever day your schedule will allow it?

Kiana(Keiser)Mosley

September 25, 2013 at 10:06 PM

get a Strathmore mixed media pad of paper and just.begin. I can tell you, as a mother of three, household manager, and freelancer, juggling is hard. But you must begin. and once you begin, stay conscious of making that your habit. there will be lulls, there will be breaks and distractions, accept them and try again, prioritize your art as far up as you can, because it is as essential to you as breathing… and don’t worry about punking out – we will be here, supportive and awaiting the next word, photo, and inspiration. Go gurl!

Lesley
September 26, 2013 at 9:31 AM
Thanks so much for that wisdom and those encouraging words, Kiana!

m.a.tateishi

September 26, 2013 at 7:54 AM

I’m kind of a multi-tasker, so right now I’m using my warm-up to do something fun and useful: I’m painting little cards which I send to my daughter in Australia. Since you move so much, perhaps you could do postcards for your friends in other places? I explained it all in a blog post here:

http://matateishi.blogspot.ca/2013/09/when-you-have-nothing-to-saypaint.html

The main thing for me is to do something different from whatever I’m working on in the studio: representation/abstraction, colour/black&white, pencil/paint. I feel that gives my creativity a refreshing break.