Inspiration Today, Studio Happenings and Work in Progress: 159

Beauty in the simple and beauty in random pattern
love this mosaic

Here's what I am finding inspiring today -

1. These paintings by Fay Jones
2. Gwen Davidson 
3. The level of creativity of the art by Ruby Silvious. 
4. The amazing use of bioengineering by this company and how they are helping to save Rhinos
5. My new Pandora radio station - based on the music of Twin Forks

What are you finding inspiring today?

Unexpected Visitor, Chirping and Sparrow

Sparrow
encaustic on birch 6x6

Today I had the most amazing visitor - a little sparrow was hopping around in my living room.  I was in the kitchen and heard a chirping sound.  I came around the corner to find a sweet little sparrow hopping about.  She was chirping away and happy as could be and didn't seem to have a care in the world.  I opened the patio door to help her to find her way back outside.  She was in no hurry to leave and hopped under chairs and around and under the tables.  She never took flight, just hopped and sang.  I followed around and gently talked to her encouraging her to see the open door and her freedom.   She eventually made her way to the door and flew back to her life outside.  So sweet. 
Happy Friday everyone!

Inspiration Today, Studio Happenings and Work in Progress: 158

Revisiting the Art's Way, spending time on walks
and looking to nature to find inspiration

Here's what I am finding inspiring today -

1. This Quote - “If I could say it in words there would be no reason to paint.” Edward Hopper
2.  Ways to get unstuck in creativity from a newsletter from my wonderful and creative friend Kat Sloma over at Kateyestudio.com 
   Here are four ways to jump start your creativity, suggested by my readers:
   1. Change mediums. There is nothing like dabbling with a different set of tools to open up a creative channel, is there?
   2. Go for a walk. Getting outside and moving helps you see things in a whole new way. Good for your body, mind and creative soul!
   3. Do something completely different. Go off and cook, work on a house project, and let your mind wander. The ideas inevitably come when we aren't wanting them.
   4. Journal. Morning pages are part of The Artist's Way for a reason, helping us to get all of those limiting thoughts out of our head and onto the page. 
   But most of all, they suggested, take the pressure off and let things be. Creative dips often come before a big step forward or a new project coming your way. Be patient, they told me.
3.  The brilliant and inspiring words of Julia Cameron every day with this book
4.  How my friend Minnemie sees art in the broken
5. Raise Your Hand and Say Yes