I've been casually working on a few art projects over the past few weeks, but I've really not made any real progress or gained any substantive traction. As I was pondering my apparent lack of progress yesterday, I realized that I could probably benefit from some peer feedback and, frankly, peer pressure.
So, I'm going to start a monthly arts and crafts group. Essentially, anyone who wants to express themselves creatively, whether through painting, sculpture, sewing, or whatever else floats your boat, can attend. The group will mostly act as a motivator for people who need a little social pressure to implement the ideas they have, but it can also serve as a sounding board for those who are looking for feedback.
For myself, I am looking for a structured time each month when I know there is an expectation of physical progress on a project. I need that kind of organization to help keep me sane... it will force me to STOP thinking about something and actually START working on it. I can easily postpone most creative endeavors by thinking them to death, and I'm just tired of that. Creative projects don't have to be "perfect" the first time my hands start to shape them in this earthly plane. Never even trying is the true tragedy, not my deformed sculpture or washed out painting.
Since I like elephants, I think I'll tentatively call this gathering the Herd Arts Group. Hopefully, we can work together to bring forth some fun projects and help each other along our creative journeys.
If you are interested in attending, let me know and I'll add you to the distribution list and send you the details.
Just a thought... I had the most incredible experience each of the time I worked through Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way with a group. I did it once with someone acting as group facilitator, once with a group of peers (older women, actually) and once with just a good friend. I found it opened doors to my creativity in ways I never expected.
ReplyDeleteI guess what I'm suggesting is it helped me to have an external deadline, too, and using that book was incredible. I keep meaning to do the same with Vein of Gold but that would mean... gasp... actually... er... going out and being with people. YIKES!
PS I won't be commenting anymore because I'm on my "no online socializing moratorium" but I did just want to add this little comment... :-) So, I won't be commenting but will be reading!!