I am often reminded of the importance of just taking the next step in whatever we are doing, even when we don’t feel like it. With events in the world being as they are it has been difficult to feel motivated or inspired in any way. The answer for me has been to look at what small things I can do to help support those going through traumatic events and then focus on living the life I am lucky enough to have. Anything less is serving no one.
To find my way back to my creativity I turned to my sketchbook, collage and a daily drawing practice.
Like many people I have always thought I couldn't draw but sketching every day for the past 93 days has improved my skills and my confidence. I started in pencil and charcoal but with some of the more recent ones, as you can see in the image above, I have added a touch of colour with inktense pencils. These are great as they become permanent and produce lovely vibrant colours when water is added.
Working in a sketchbook is a great way to experiment and try new ideas without the pressure of producing a 'finished' work of art. In the images below you can see how I began experimenting with collage in my sketchbook which then led to two completed pieces. I have been making a few reels for instagram recently, one of them shows the construction of the second collage which you can view here
Creativity has been a priority for me this month. I think that is because I primarily make art for the sense of wellbeing it brings me. This seems more important than ever in the current climate. I hope you are finding some time for the things that bring you joy.