So often we hear that our work as artists needs to be cohesive. That we need to build a body of work that is recognizable. I believe this is important and true, but I also believe that you can pursue other curiosities while getting there. I recently watched a TED Talk titled: A powerful way to unleash your creativity. In it, Tim Harford discusses “slow-motion multitasking”.
“What can we learn from the world’s most enduringly creative people? They “slow-motion multitask,” actively juggling multiple projects and moving between topics as the mood strikes — without feeling hurried. Author Tim Harford shares how innovators like Einstein, Darwin, Twyla Tharp and Michael Crichton found their inspiration and productivity through cross-training their minds.”
“Without feeling hurried” is the key here. So while I am no Einstein or Darwin or Twyla Tharpe, it doesn’t mean that my curiosity and multiple interests can’t nourish each other. I’ve been spending most of my studio time creating mixed media abstract paintings, and while I enjoy the different stages of creating these works, I sometimes need a break. I have various journals just for this purpose (and because I like too many things).
I started an “independent study” on botanical drawings a while back. You can read all about it here, here, and here. I can’t dedicate loads of time to it right now as I’m prepping for some markets and a show in spring, but I’m not worried. This botanical art study is ongoing. Like probably forever.
What kind of things are you curious about? Do you pursue them? You can find some floral inspiration with these two ladies below.
Ivy Newport’s network & her Studioworks Creative Academy and Amanda Evanston IG posts and stories
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