Sometimes the practice of disengaging is the way to become engaged.
I paint watercolors, or rather water downed acrylics, which is basically the same thing. If I am focused on my work, I want to dive in and work, work, work. This often times makes the work turn to mud in front of my eyes. It is the opposite of what this medium is all about, delicate lines and shapes that are layered one on top of the other.
When this happens, or rather before I get to that space, what the work needs is for me to walk away. Take a step back. Go away, and then come back some time later with a new perspective.
I’m not sure why, but the Creative Genius inside all of us seems to speak in whispers and small urges. It is sometimes slow, can be very deliberate, but often powerful with small surges of kinetic frenzy.
Just like this blog. And also like some song writers will tell you. Things can spill out onto the page so fast it’s difficult to get it all on paper before the thoughts drift off into oblivion.
But, creativity never forces its way. It is always a gentle nudge. A softness, an invitation to attempt the spending of intellect and possibility. It is the wind gently blowing on a summer evening at sunset.
Usually when I walk away, I choose to get outside in nature. Often what I am painting, is a reflection of nature, so when I step away I am usually guided by the infinite. Fractal moments of symmetry and perfection.
So, if you are stuck, try taking a break. Get out in nature, and observe the real deal. That which, without it, none of us could survive.
After all, we owe our existence to 1” of topsoil and the fact that it rains……
Bringinthesheaves 