Finding the base
I’m back in the studio! With so many distractions over the last few weeks…months…actually, a couple of years….I’m trying to create a new studio schedule. Schedule isn’t a happy word for most people but for me it is insurance. I need the promise that there will be time in every day for making art. I’m not sure about most things in this world but that one I’ve figured out.
When I’m painting I can actually feel myself recentering. In my chair with the palette to the right and an opportunity to push colors around on paper in front of me. The window to my left that faces the sheetmetal shop and the tiny store across Oakwood. I’m aware of my studio cats around me and Jelly is below my feet. Misty is usually right behind my chair. My studio had begun to feel like a selfish place — a space dedicated to my gratification only. With my animal family around me I’m reminded daily that this is their home — a safe and comfortable place for them. They really complete the feeling and my sense of purpose.
Scheduled studio time is a promise to myself that I’ll have time to be creative every day. Some days are creative and on others, I’m simply painting — it isn’t always a glorious experience! The promise is important though — the glorious moments certainly won’t happen if I’m not in position.
So I’m thankful that I can once again structure my days around my studio. I hope everything else continues to fall into place around it. Of course, I KNOW that is my decision. I’m the one that builds each of my days — like stacking blocks with a strong base — and that is exactly what feels good. Having my base back.
