I had no idea, no plan, but didn't let that stop me

     

    Over the past few weeks as you probably could tell I haven’t carved anything new since completing the clock and redoing the other clock. Yes, I still have been creating from painting. Which I can say has been exciting in its own way. It was fun to have a different change of pace and use a different tool. Yes, my knowledge is still limited for how paint works and especially in the way of color theory and how to blend different colors. I am pleased with the result of what I was able to paint. Despite the limited knowledge I have “I didn’t let it stop me.” I do believe this is the bigger lesson which carries the greater value. I do also know that changing how your creativity and inspiration comes helps the overall adventure.

            Limiting yourself to “I only can work with.” Will change how you look at the work you do. It can and will change the genuine passion which drives your creative and potential. I do know and will acknowledge there are limitations to exploring different materials. From what tools are needed and different supplies. Which of course cost money and of course the knowledge needed to try something safely.

            I found a way you can explore different materials which doesn’t increase cost as much. It’s by finding materials which can compliment and work together. For example, I have started painting some of my projects. I know another way paint can be used is on a canvas.

            This last week I had a change of inspiration and motivation. The idea struck me to “go back to my roots.” Making something that is out of “just wood.” And using the character the wood has to offer. Of course, the one problem which is very common is “I still didn’t know what to make,” especially for a big project. Which I in turn diverted to the small treasure projects. The making of necklaces, refrigerator magnets and small things. When making necklaces pendants I sometimes have an idea. But majority of the time I just “look at the wood and do the first thing that comes to mind.” The first thought which I had was a “bow tie.” I started shaping the wood. A had a small debate because as I was shaping the wood I had another idea of “an hourglass.” I went back and forth and of course went for the bow tie. It came out great. I still need to put the finish on and figure out how to string it on a necklace. 

            The neck day I was still feeling motivated to create something “but had no idea what.” I resorted to the small treasures. I sat for a while looking at different pieces of wood but unfortunately no inspiration came. Nothing felt right in my heart or even looked right. The other difficult part is sometime my ideas are “really hard to draw.” So, I work through each detail slowly. Despite the inspiration roadblock I still was motivated to “create something.” I pulled out some bigger pieces of wood. I found the piece that said, “pick me.” I still of course “had no ideas.” First to start with a boarder. I started adding details and the project “just came alive.” From seeing the details in the work piece to the next idea I would add. Did I have confidence the project would turn out? Nope. Did I know exactly what the final project would look like? Nope. As the project progressed, I got the idea to see if I could “hide a secrete ability.” A few projects I have designed with the picture frame to hold the picture differently. I started to wonder if I could hide the ability to either hold a picture or be a standalone art piece. Making a dual purpose and having the ability and option to display a photo. We all probably have multiple picture frames hidden when you redecorate your house. 

            The project is still not finished. But there is nothing wrong with that. I know I will get it finished in “due time.” You can’t rush the craftmanship. When I showed my family the project. My brother officially named it the “Oreo.” Not sure where this general idea of multiple purpose artwork can go. But I might have to keep exploring what might be possible. Do I know how to make this idea a reality in other art pieces. Nope. But again, why should I let that stop me?”