A monthly funletter for sharing, inspiring and cultivating creativity together |
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Dear First name / friend, As we head into this year's busy holiday season I want to share some ideas and a free resource to help you sneak in a little creative time. It may give you the break you need to return to your other efforts in a better frame of mind. My go to is an art journal or mixed media sketchbook. It works like a charm! |
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A collage in my art journal using a combination of found, purchased and hand painted papers. |
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If you're like me and cultivating creativity for a richer life is a core value, you might enjoy preserving a weekly time slot for your craft or hobby. If you can manage a daily session, even better! No matter if the activity is a new interest or long time hobby, it need not be for any purpose other than starting the day feeling like you've filled your cup, or calming the mind for a more restful sleep. Whether you only have 5 minutes here and there, a 20 minute coffee break, or a luxurious hour long block - you can do this. Setting yourself up for success is the critical part. If you have a sketchbook practice for example, be sure to have your book or tablet and favorite drawing tool at the ready. As habit expert James Clear says in his book Atomic Habits, “make it easy.” The less resistance one has, the more likely it'll happen. Tips to Try - Schedule sessions at the start of your week
- Set a reminder
- Use a timer
If you can't draw (yet) or are short on time and want to jump right in, I've got a coloring page for you to print! |
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Ideas For Your Page - think outside the box |
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- Paint/color/collage on it over a series of brief sessions.
- When time allows, try it again with different color schemes or media.
- For surprising results, try closing your eyes and selecting a random color for each shape.
- Integrate found materials.
- New to watercolor? Trace or print the image on watercolor paper and follow the steps in my blog with written instructions and photos here - watercolor tutorial.
- For the experienced, run with it in your own style or try something different on a whim.
- Don't forget the spacious background. It has potential for you to add your own details. Try insects, birds, pattern, stamps, collage, or a meaningful quote.
- Make a few copies and share it with the kids. Bring out some crayons or markers for a family activity while dinner is in the oven. You can color one each or try a progressive piece for an inclusive exercise in collaborative art.
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Using Your Words While a picture may be “worth a thousand words” and I do agree with Edward Hopper when he said, ”If I could say it in words there would be no reason to paint", I can also make a case for using both. I like to incorporate words in my art journal entries. In the morning, setting an intention for the day or writing down an affirmation seems to be an easy way to begin. I write on my page, then paint, scribble, draw, or collage right over it. The words don't have to be visible when I'm finished. The point is simply to express them. In evenings, I use a short gratitude list. It helps me shift my thoughts to something positive so I can wind down with greater ease. Plus counting my blessings is always a good practice. On that note, if you're in the U.S., Happy Thanksgiving! |
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P.S. Stay tuned for a special giveaway announcement next month. Meanwhile, if you'd like to share your work or thoughts, just reply or post on IG and tag me @stephanie_fielden. I'd love to hear from you. |
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Thanks for reading! If you know someone who might enjoy this funletter, please pass it along. |
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As always, any freebie provided is for personal use only and not for re-sale in any way. © Stephanie Fielden. |
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6804 Estrella De Mar Rd
Carlsbad, CA 92009, United States |
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