After focusing so much time on the new studio, I am eager to get back to creating more artwork. The ideas have been coming in this entire time, and I haven't given myself time to get them out or organize myself enough to feel productive.
Since finally moving in and getting situated, I have had a couple of commissions that I am finishing up, and I have also started up my studio challenges again! (A couple of these new studio challenges will be up for purchase next week). It is finally starting to feel like I am getting back into the groove and finding my pace.
The Next BIG Projects
1. The first project is my first "Big" piece in the new studio. I felt like I needed a large, immersive project to break in the new wall. I have a watercolor paper prepped and ready. I want to play off of the last charcoal and ink piece I worked on “Finding Form in Chaos” (which will be going up for sale this month). A piece inspired by the intensity and power of space, capturing the chaos that takes place in our reality on and off planet, the seemingly destructive power that ultimately creates form, a result. I wanted to express space and how it reflects the basic consistency of life without being particular about its “stage” … destruction, apparent chaos, creation.
However, I am trying to decide whether or not to repaint (again) the big, main wall in the studio because the white paint I repainted the wall with has a semi-gloss finish, which is already giving me problems with my tape on much smaller pieces.
Le sigh.
I have to admit. It is my fault that I thought it would be acceptable to use the one we already had instead of going out and getting the paint the wall needed.
So, once I finish this current commission. I am going to take the morning to repaint the wall (insert rolling eyes). BUT I am sure I will be MUCH happier when it is done... even though this will be the 2nd time I have repainted it.
Once that is finished, I can start on the big piece!
2. The other big project that is coming is the new Skillshare Course I have been working on. Gathering my accumulated resources and first-hand experience in creating artwork and creative projects has sort of been an ongoing thing. But, I have started to write down things I can share with people pursuing a more creative life, whether for a hobby or career, while developing a structure that is easy to digest, helpful, and inspiring.
The more I work on it, the more excited I get. I have never been fond of speaking on camera so creating something like this has been pushed aside for a long time despite so many people reaching out about tips, feedback, questions.
I was nervous and kept having that "imposter syndrome". I didn't see how I could be of service to others in that way. It wasn't until I started seriously writing things down for tutorial ideas when I realized I could share quite a bit in skill development and conceptual development.
After majoring in Art during college, a Masters, ten years of actively selling my artwork and working on design projects, thousands of hours of drawing and painting, and the last 5+ years of really dedicating time to navigating the sharing/selling of work online... I think there is some information that other creative pursuers may find helpful. Not only that, but since finishing post grad (end of 2014), I have spent money and time learning whenever I could. Reading books, subscribing and following people/things in the creative industry, taking online courses to learn, refine or upkeep skills, going to figure drawing meet-ups, attending webinars and discussions, sketching whenever I could, spending time experimenting, etc.
So, I can't wait to share more on it, finally film the modules and get them out there for people!
3. Last but not least! I am starting virtual Paint and Sips! I had wanted to do the first one back in April, but with everything going on, it was a very optimistic goal haha
The first one will be June 5th, 2021, so stay tuned for more information on signing up because spots for the first one will be limited!
Hope this post found you in good spirits, and if not, I hope it left you in good spirits! Cheers for tuning in and have a good rest of your day/evening... whenever it is that you read this !
Detail from New Studio Challenge going up next week!