Reinforcing Your Skills

Wow. What a BUSY week! I haven't spent much time in the "Cubby" this week , but have made a point to walk through and at least look at the projects on my work table, and make notes for when I get to spend some quality time. This helps to keep my head in the game, and may give me some new insight that I wouldn't have had if I sat staring at a painting for several hours.
I'm currently working on two paintings and putting together some small still lifes to take to Tamarack. I have found a good website for ordering the precut mats and clear bags for paintings that won't be framed when sold. it is: www.clearbags.com . The prices are good, and  the shipping seems to be pretty quick.
When I am not able to actually do art, I have been using the "Artists Network" to watch videos of new techniques and reading articles that will inspire me to get back into the Cubby. I like that feeling in the back of my mind of having an idea for a painting that I can't wait to try! I am using my small sketchbook to record my ideas, and then flesh them out later. (Yes, napkins and scrap paper still come into play, just to keep the creativity flowing!)
The article I read this morning is from Kieko Yasuoka, featured in Watercolor Artist Feb. 2013. Her Creativity Challenge reinforces what I've been trying to follow this year:
     1. Limit your Pallette---  to create harmony in your painting. (I'm also thinking there may be a    key life lesson in here somewhere!)
     2. Use photo reference for basic design, then set it aside and use your mind to  create the painting.
     3. Try something New--- I have taken several workshops in the past two years that weren't within my "comfort zone" : Rita Montrosse Productivity workshop got me out of the "one at a time" mindset, Laurie Goldstein-Warren helped develop my limited palette, and Susan Webb-Tregay helped me to "Master Disaster".  All of these have contributed to the work I am taking to Tamarack next week (Shown on my Home Page), and I thank all these Artists for their inspiration!

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