Alass
Lately, my favorite part of a project is the beginning... as I've become more experienced at creating layers, textures, building up and sanding down, it never seems quite done. If I'm having a bad or creatively slow day I just make paper - pasting down scraps from the table, gelling and glittering, sponging and stenciling on the paint, just to get that... feeling of freedom that comes with making a mess, glue, etc. on the hands without (over)thinking.
By the time the paint is dry I've usually gathered design elements that change repeatedly until the last bead is glued in place. At times I lose my focus and have trouble remembering what the theme was in the first place. I've happened upon some lovely trims that I'm tempted to overuse along with a handful or two of the incredible stash of bling that seems to be multiplying in boxes and piles on the studio floor (hope I'm showing restraint - ha.)
I feel like I've finished a series (btw, the '7' and '3' are purposely mirrored, a subtle shout to a memorable year in my life) and am ready to move on to, well, whatever is next. I have some 10x10 cradled canvases, several boxes and books that I'd like to alter. There is never a shortage of substrates, materials, processes, sometimes just focus. But I'm sure I'm not the only one lucky enough to ponder the infinite universe of the creative life. Let's try to think of it that way if we find ourselves at odds... stuck, poised to break through to the next level...
Comments
You really touched home with your words. Although for me, there is always a shortage of substrates and materials, I have learned to make do with what I have. The processes are those I learn from generous and giving friends I've met on the internet. They may not be the latest, but they sure allow me to have a very creative life.
Thanks for disclosing your texture secrets. Loved reading this post.
-jj
All best as you navigate to the next level of adventure!