The Joy of Simple Art
Dear Wonderful, Creative You:
I’m talking about the joy of simple art because we have a free challenge coming up, but also because it’s one of the principles that has set me free as an artist.
Having permission to do the simplest thing is about having permission to do what feels good. It means I can do what feels full of ease and fun. And since we are making art for own our pleasure and well-being, it seems to me that honoring what feels good is pretty darn important.
It also happens to clear away my resistance and frustration faster than you can eat a small twist Oreo blizzard from DQ. (Not that I’ve ever done that.🍦)
Last weekend while I was hiking in New Hampshire, in our down time, I wanted to make art, but I didn’t want to create anything that required too much planning or conceptualizing because we had limited chunks of time. I decided to draw a series of slender leaves.
My only goal was to enjoy myself. That’s it. And I did!
Then today I returned to the page, and when I filled in most of the leaves with lines, the page felt like it needed some contrast, so I played with some flower ideas on separate sheets to clarify my ideas – and then this happened…
I’m having great fun with it. I don’t know if I will add more flowers, watercolor, or something else. But I’m having fun, and after all, isn’t that the point?
I’d love to have you join The Simplest Thing Challenge to get you creating more. It’s a free 5-day challenge where I’ll email you a word prompt and photo inspiration to help you create something simple in your sketchbook every day for 5 days. You can sign up for free here!
Do You Find Simplicity Freeing?
Is there a “simple” piece of art that you really love? How does it feel when you make simple art? Tell us what you find freeing about simplicity in the comments. We’d love to hear your ideas.
Creatively Yours,
Amy
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Thanks for the invitation to create. I too enjoy making simpler things. Even following your prompts I found the freedom to romp and explore. I love art and have always felt it was a part of me but do not always indulge. My creative spark lasted about a year and a half and tipped away not to be seen again. I miss it.
I’m so happy that you have found a way to begin to create a bit again. The slow drawing sessions are great for that. I wonder also if you have tried my free class: The Guide to Creative Self-Care it helps a lot of my students out of the creative slump. Cheers!
Your advice is timely. I’m about to go on vacation for a week and taking the pressure off to plan and execute a complicated piece is a relief.
Oh that’s great news, and a great example of how giving yourself an invitation to simplicity can open up more art in your life. YAY! xo Happy creating!
Looking so forward to this challenge! You have such a calming aura!!
Hi Micol: I’m really looking forward to it too, and I’m so glad that the vibe around here works for you! I’m not always calm, but when I’m making art I am. 😂 Cheers
I’ve been stuck in limbo since the death of a beloved nephew. Time to start painting and drawing again. Dear Tim, this is for you! ♥️ aunt joani.
Hi Joani: Oh your love letter to Tim is so touching. I’m thrilled I could help get you back on the road. Happy painting! xo