the muse

i just had to share this blog post with you by alicia tormey:

she talks about the 12 ways to motivate the artist.  one thing she said really rang true with me.

It got me thinking about motivation and how it differs from inspiration.

this is so true for me.  i think a key factor in artwork is practice.  show up in the studio and do little tasks if it's all you can manage.  the motivation will come.

i don't really think there is a muse.  it's just a matter of self-discipline.  when you're taking care of yourself and your art, inspiration will come.  you can't just sit by the tv and wait for it to happen.

i had a huge problem with motivation when i was ill.  huge.  my friend bridgette recommended keeping a "loosening up" journal.  it helped immensely.  it got me down in the studio, playing with my tools and making some pages that are now inspiration for books i'm in the process of making.

so think about practice, getting into the studio and really working on small tasks until the motivation and inspiration follow.

Comments

[leighanna light]

This was also my big revelation this year! I just need to show up in my studio, that's it! So simple, no lightening strikes, divine guidance, magic wands, JUST SHOW UP!
Boy Nike sure got it right with "just do it"!
I rarely comment, bit I just love looking at your books, thanks for sharing them.

[claire]

wise, wise words, geraldine, thank you!!
and just to let you know i've added your blog to my favourites :o) thanks!!