Creating from a place of detachment

    Every artist has been through it. The time when what’s in your head is just not translating onto the page. The more we cling and struggle with a piece, the more it seems to lose it’s original intent. The more it loses it ‘soul’ so to speak. We have all heard the phrase, ‘detach from your work’. A relaxed and detached mindset is the difference between enjoying every piece you do and wrestling with your work (a form of constant struggle).  When one doesn’t detach from there work it’s like trying to open a gate without the key. Fortunately the key is under the mat and you will not expend much energy (or money) to open the gate. A relaxed mindset can be achieved by meditating before you get down to creating. The time spent meditating will be paid back to you ‘tenfold’ once you get into the habit. Meditation allows us to enjoy each piece we produce and gives us the opportunity to get ‘out of our heads’ and let the pen/brush or stylus do the work. The benefits of meditation are well documented. Why not bring the wisdom of the mystics and sages to the table when creating. I remember a great quote from the movie ‘The Legend of Bagger Vance’ (directed by Robert Redford). Bagger Vance (played by Will Smith) said something very profound, yet very simple. He said ‘your hands is wiser than your head is ever gonna be’. It’s this quote that emphasises how important it is to be present and relaxed while creating.  Meditation allows you to get to that place quite quickly, you might even find the residual benefits in everyday life to be quite staggering! Paint/draw/ create without inhibition!

 

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Final products take time

    Hi Guys and Girls, I am writing this blog to ensure you that some final products take time to evolve. Sometimes we think that the artist has sat down and produced a masterpiece. This is not true. Every artist will tell you the same thing. It takes time for a drawing/painting/piece to evolve. The countless hours of practice have led to the result you see in front of you. It’s not natural ability that sets someone apart as an artist. It’s tireless hours spent practicing different angles and new techniques that has set the artist apart. Natural ability will only take you so far, and if this ability is not molded and honed, the skill or potential will not be fully realized. Don’t worry if your first iterations are not what you feel they should be. I can attest to the fact that many drawings and styles evolve with time. Developing your potential is something you need to be committed to as well as proud of. Give yourself a pat on the back for each milestone achieved. Every hurdle overcome is a victory and should be treated as such. You just need to believe in yourself and practice as much as you can can. The sky is the limit after that!!!!!

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