Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Peruvian String Art Jewelry

My new fascination:  Peruvian String Art Jewelry.  Personally have not tried to make any yet, but just looking at the photos is most satisfying!  I'm gathering the materials to start making the coils and framework, then will try my hand at this. Let's see:  math + fiber + color + design + function = who could want more?

  

     

Monday, January 11, 2016

Learning to Beat Procrastination

I used to teach organizational seminars (hard to imagine, I know).  So I know all of the tricks on how to beat procrastination - for someone else.  Since I've finally managed to overcome my latest procrastinating and finally gotten back into the studio, thought I'd share some of my favorite tips for artists that may be facing that procrastination elephant in the room:

1.    Break it down into manageable bites.  Even if you tell yourself you'll only work for 10 minutes, do that.  Set a timer if that helps.  You can do anything for 10 minutes.
2.    Figure out the one thing that's stopping you from working. Then go work on something else until you come up with a solution.  But at least do something.
3.    Work with a To-Do List.  (Key to this is to make it realistic!)
4.    Guard you time.  When it's time to work, really work.  When it's time to play, then play.  But don't feel guilty about one while you are doing the other.
5.     Don't use FB and emails as an excuse - they will gobble up your time without mercy.
6.     And if nothing else works, just make yourself  "show up" in your studio, or where your work. Once you're there, you'll probably find something to get started on.

This last week I was struggling to get working, because I really didn't know how to fix a problem rim on a basket.  So I forced myself to "show up", and started weaving anyway.  Once I got to the rim, the solution presented itself quite easily.

Why did I make it such a big deal??


Monday, January 4, 2016

Joy in Organizing

There is a deep, personal joy that I find in organizing for the new year.  As I file away the previous year's records in preparation for tax season, I check off the task on a mental checklist. ( I love making space and folders for the new year.) Clearing out old emails for a fresh start with a pristine folder - check that off, too.  Physically clearing off my desk and inbox with accumulated detritus almost brings a smile to my lips.  Prioritizing and moving notes made on my iphone to Workflowy is so satisfying.  Clearing apps off my phone that I don't really use is remarkably freeing.  Yes, I could go on and on, but only at the risk of really sounding like an organizational geek!

Why I like to organize is probably very similar to why women like to clean. (http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/love-clean/calms-mind )
It makes me feel in control, it calms my mind, and it's a reflection of who I  truly am.  Plus it's always nice to start the year fresh, without the mess.

I understand that organizing isn't everyone's "thing", but it certainly is mine.  Don't get me wrong, my house isn't perfectly neat all the time, and I do occasionally lose things.  But that doesn't stop me from embracing the bliss of organizing small areas of my life.

And one more plug for Workflowy - absolutely the best organizing and list making app in the world.