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Reflections, Goals and a Sneak Peek

I've been thinking back on 2013 and what I've done over the past year. Most of what comes to mind is art. I had a great time taking pottery classes with my mom and learning that new (still developing) skill-- I like to call it my new love. But, I didn't paint nearly as much as I would have liked and it's not because I didn't have time. I've been reminded throughout the year, in several ways, that we make time for things that are important to us-- and don't get me wrong, it's not that painting isn't important to me. But through my reflections, I have come to realize that being creative is what is important to me. When I'm doing pottery, my creative need is being met and so I don't feel as strong of a need to paint. I am satisfied with what I create each week in the pottery studio. And when pottery class is not in session, I pick up my paintbrush more. I think my mom said it best when I was complaining about not being able to do pottery for several months after our last class ended. I think I said "I will DIE if we don't do pottery" (or something to that effect) and she said "you just HAVE to be doing something, don't you?" And the answer is YES. I HAVE to be doing something or I am not happy. I truly believe in the quote at the top of the page: "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." And trust me, my life has been pretty dusty lately.

So, the moral of this story is that I will probably not post as much when I am taking a pottery class, which will be several times throughout the year-- and it starts again in just a couple weeks! But I have been painting like a mad woman for the past few weeks so I'm hoping I have enough paintings to post while I am away in pottery world.

Another thing I have been thinking about while I've been reflecting is how I make watercolor WAY more complicated than it should ever be. I get so worked up about it that it's hard to actually paint. I think way too much about the outcome and that doesn't allow me to enjoy the process. It just shouldn't be that complicated. So lately, when I sit down to paint, I tell myself over and over "just put the color down, Emilee. JUST PUT THE COLOR ON THE PAPER!" And it works! I've been really satisfied with the results. In addition to that, one of my goals this year is to simplify my paintings. Lately, I've been finding more beauty in simplicity rather than more detailed, complex paintings.

And now, a sneak peek at something I am excited to share in 2014. In an effort to simplify my watercolors, I've been working on a couple series of paintings that I am really excited about.  Here is a peek at one I will be posting soon:




Comments

  1. Elise EnghDecember 31, 2013 at 8:08 AM

    I can't live without art and without creating either! It's my therapy! Can't wait to see your new paintings.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. EmileeDecember 31, 2013 at 5:14 PM

      Thanks Elise! Best of luck to you in the new year!

      Delete

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