Change is something happening all the time. We cannot avoid it, even if we want to. Whenever my iPhone makes new updates and changes to my visual cues, I’m immediately irritated because I was comfortable with the old ways of navigating. But look around . . . There is climate change, political change, and biological changes as we age. Sometimes changes are thrust upon us, and sometimes it’s what we manifest.
We are ripe for change if we are dissatisfied with our current situation or restless to move into new territory. How do we get out of the rut we’re in if we’re comfortable just repeating the same routine or falling into habits that no longer serve? What’s one thing you can do to make the leap? The desire to change and grow is a manifestation of creativity. This is what prompts a non-artist to venture into the realm of art or causes an accomplished artist to switch to a different medium or style. That’s why MAKING ART is such a great catalyst for making changes in all areas of your life.
Change and risk-taking are normal aspects of the creative process. They are the lubricants that keep the wheels in motion. A creative act is not necessarily something that has never been done; it is something you have never done. Every day try something you haven’t done before.
Build the courage to try new things. Would you like to learn to paint a watercolor or paint a mural on a building? Do you want to take a class at the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center or go to art school in New York? Take a workshop in France? Exhibit in a national show? GO FOR IT! A change in direction—even a small one—fosters creativity. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU CAN DO UNTIL YOU TRY.
If you’re an artist, access your creativity by everything you think and do about art. Mix mediums, find an unusual viewpoint, or use ordinary tools in extraordinary ways. There are many answers to a question; there are many solutions to a problem. You find them by looking for them! And if you’re not an artist, maybe try taking an art class or changing an old habit.
For me, I am always looking for ways in the studio to improve my artistic skills or break through to the next level. I’m much more comfortable with change now than I was several years ago, both in my work life and personal life, only because I have experienced so many changes and I am no longer afraid of change. So tonight, instead of vegging out in front of the television before bed, I think I’ll try something else. I could draw in my sketchbook, read, write a poem, or write a letter in the old-fashioned way — with a pen! The passive habit of watching Netflix at night is one I’ve been wanting to break because I am ever aware of my family’s history with dementia. I’m not saying that watching tv is a bad thing, it’s just a habit I personally want to let go of. I know I will watch movies, just not EVERY night. If I tell you this, it makes me more accountable.
So maybe I’ll see you in one of my art classes? Just sayin’!
As always, I wish you much Aloha.