Due to upcoming testing at my school that requires use of the art room computer lab, I have to leave my classroom for several periods over the next three weeks. Taking art on the road! Not sure what we will be doing but am happy to shake up the routine a bit and try something new. Hoping for sunshine and some time outside, having kids actually look at the world around them without a device in between them and it. Creating good art memories by just looking at the world and feeling sunshine. After this winter, we all need it!
Time to think about summer and spending time doing art things myself again. Can't wait! I recently took out this book again: Creating Sketchbooks for Embroiderers and Textile Artists. I love the textures and patterns that these examples show -- makes test swatches feel like art. Bits and pieces coming together to describe process and thinking. A time capsule of learning. I just began a new sketchbook after taking more than a year to complete the last one (a really good one -- over an inch thick, sewn pages, hardcover - purchased at Michaels on the way cheap.) Looking forward to adding to it, page by page, finding inspiration wherever it might be and letting the book grow.
Over the past year or so I've delved into using art as a theraputic solution to physical pain and limitation, and it is helping so much. Having the outlet where I can accomplish things, even little things on a page, keeps me focused on the positive and happy. Even on really bad pain days, I can at least draw. Make marks. Exist in a way that goes beyond the physical. Tap into the mysterious energy that is art. Be it in a sketchbook, art quilt, or even now a phone sketch, creating and making lets me know that I am alive and participating in this world, not just reacting to it.
Off to get the kids into creative mode now - six classes, three grades, five courses in one day -- bring it on!!
What will you make today?