Weeks 9-12: Have a Little Tantrum, then Pivot
Diving into the heart of a 100-day creative challenge, this blog post explores the highs and lows of committing to a daily art practice, focusing on the intricate beauty of hand-carved linocuts. From the initial excitement of carving pieces like the Scorpion, Wild Blue Iris, and Eastern White Pine Branch, to the vibrant wildlife series featuring a Pinecone, a Woodpecker, and a Hummingbird, the journey is a testament to the therapeutic and fulfilling nature of carving. However, the narrative takes a candid turn, addressing the diminishing returns of social media platforms like Instagram, critiqued for their ad-heavy, engagement-draining nature. In a bold pivot, the decision to shift focus towards Pinterest highlights a strategic move to platforms offering longer-lasting visibility for art. This reflective piece showcases a stunning array of linocut projects and delves into the realities of social media's impact on artists, culminating in a powerful affirmation of creativity's unstoppable force. Join me as I navigate the balance between online engagement and authentic artistic expression, marking a significant pivot towards more fulfilling platforms and practices.
Weeks 7-8 Recap: Nobody Cares
Facing the quiet echo of 'Nobody cares' during the 7th and 8th weeks of my 100-day creative project, I was reminded of a profound truth: the value of our creative work lies far beyond social media likes. πͺπΌ In this post, I shared the power of internal validation and the deep, intrinsic value of creating art for art's sake. π©πΌβπ¨ It's a vital lesson for artists everywhere, reminding us that satisfaction and growth are the real measures of success. In a world where external validation can seem like everything, let's remind ourselves and our creative community that our passion, dedication, and the joy of creation hold the utmost importance. Join me in affirming and celebrating the beauty and significance of our work, recognizing that the true reward of creativity is found in the journey itself, not the applause it may or may not receive.
Week 6 Recap: Keep Going or Let Go?
Are you stuck in the "Muddy Middle" of your 100-day project? π© It's a common phase where the initial excitement fades, and the end seems far away. Whether it's carving, painting, or any creative endeavor, this crucial point requires reflection and decision. Learn how to reassess your goals, harness motivation, and decide whether to push through or pivot. This blog post offers practical tips, journal prompts to guide your thought process, and affirmations to support your journey, whether you decide to keep going or let go. Join me in exploring how to navigate this challenging phase with intention and creativity, ensuring your project aligns with your long-term artistic goals.
Week 5 Recap: What Would You Make If No One Was Watching?
In Week 5 of my 100-Day Project, I faced the challenges of creative expression in the social media age. While dealing with the ups and downs of follower counts, I rediscovered the importance of creating art for its own sake and I shared the journal prompts that helped me figure it out. Join me on this journey as we explore the true purpose behind our artistic endeavors and find inspiration in the process, not the numbers.
Week 4 Recap: Just Keep Posting
In Week 4 of my 100-Day Project, I share my latest block prints and the results of my social media experimentsπ©π»βπ¬. Dive into the world of hand-carved block prints and discover valuable insights into Instagram and TikTok. Explore the journey of gradual growth and creative exploration as we grow together.