Inspiration

Lately I've been thinking about inspiration. What triggers the urge in one to try to create a work of art, whether it be a painting, sculpture, piece of jewelry, poem...... Inspiration can come from many directions, take many forms. It is a mysterious process. Sometimes something I read will create a vivid picture in my mind. Sometimes I will look at something that someone else has made and that triggers a thought, a question, in my mind. Usually totally unrelated to whatever inspired the thought. And sometimes I think inspiration comes from quiet, uncharted recesses of our hearts and minds. Perhaps remnants of  dreams, fragments of visions, tidbits of forgotten thoughts. 

Once an idea for a creation forces it way to the front and center of my conscious mind, I positively itch to make it happen. Just to see if the idea turns out in reality as it shows up in my mind. I think, really, that's what drives me to create. Pure curiosity! Sometimes the vision and the reality are pretty close, and that's very rewarding and pleasing! And sometimes the creation takes over and becomes something else entirely, and that's surprising and intriguing. And sometimes the whole endeavor is an entire bust. Hideous mess!! And that's disappointing and, somewhat, amusing. Keeps one humble!!

One thing I've learned from Wyanne's class is to step back and try not to judge too harshly, too quickly. Take a break, go do something else. This has been difficult for me. I like to finish things. But sometimes it's better not to. Do just so much and walk away. It's remarkable how different everything seems after a break away. I've found that something I didn't think I liked at all has possibilities. I've found that when I've reached an impasse and didn't know what to do next, the best thing to do is nothing. Go do something unrelated. Come back with a fresh perspective. It's amazing what that will do! Amazing to me, anyway. Suddenly the next step will be clear and obvious. I'm learning to use this knowledge when I work, as I feel the results are positive.

I have all kinds of bits and pieces in my studio that inspire me in one way or another. (Love the marshmellow toaster, don't you? Can't you just see a room full of people, all dressed to the nines, hovering around - a marshmellow toaster??? "Adds novelty and ZEST to your parties!!!" What a hoot!

What inspires you? What stimulates your creative processes?