Daily walk in the woods feeds my mind with ideas. I am transported to a peaceful place.
I often notice:
- smell of the forest
- dust and prints on the path
- delicate weeds and grasses
Sometimes, I get annoyed if I have to share the trail with lots of other people. Sometimes, I get in my head with worries. But mostly I am grateful to have the woodsy trail along the lake so close to home.
The awareness and appreciation that I bring into the woods creates opportunities back in the art studio.
The most literal would be the grasses and weeds that I collect for gelatin printmaking. Different grasses are available to me a different times of year. I have to keep my eyes peeled.
Often times I will be inspired by flowers or buds and try to capture the energy and essence in a photo. Then I can do some sketches and use the image in a project.
Shadows always capture my attention. I love using shadow pictures to create stencils. I love how simple shapes can be powerful and expressive.
What about you?
- Do you have a daily walk that could create artistic opportunity?
- Can you notice simple shadows and weeds with a new awareness?
I hope you do have the chance to notice the simple beauty available to you and to use that in your studio practice.
