You could say that art is the extension of the self. Pouring fourth from the inner sanctum of the soul to make the unseen, seen. I experience the art-making process through three different experiences.
Show up and make work no matter how you're feeling.
Go to the studio with inspiration and an idea.
Something comes from somewhere outside of myself and is created through me and the flow state I've taped into.
All of these ways of making work are my expression, some are more enjoyable than the others, the work comes from a place of free flowing creativity or through struggle. It depends on the day. For me, making art is a need. It is a spiritual practice, a moving meditation. A nervous system balm, a mental health precaution. Essential to my well being. A way to move deeper into knowing myself and how I interpret the world.
Expressing myself has always been a joy to me, No matter what the circumstances were --encouraged or discouraged. Whatever channel I pour my energy into, I want it to feel like an extension of myself, to be in tune with what I am. Whether it's my home, my studio, my art, my writing, or adorning my body.
If personal expression is sacred, then we could view getting dressed as an extension of the self. I've held the belief that adorning yourself is a spiritual act. It's an ancient human practice, a way to honor yourself, and spark joy! It is a deeply intuitive and vulnerable process of choosing how to convey myself to the world, but it's also for myself.
I get dressed based on my mood. Color, texture, layers, silhouette - it's all mutable. It all depends on how I feel in the moment. Growing up my dad would say, "just pick out your outfit the night before. Then you won't be late." You don't understand! I could never! I would feel 'off' all day if I wore something picked out last night! I need to be in the moment. I know when I put the right things together because I will feel like me.
I love a layered vintage outfit with textures, pattern, handmade elements, and storied pieces. I love to layer necklaces, stack rings, and adorn my arms in bangles. Collected at flea markets, vintage shops, thrift stores, loved ones, artisans, estate sales, garage sales, antique shops, travels, and even found on the street, my closet and jewelry boxes are full of beloved items. My jewels are talismans, they hold energy. Some people cannot leave the house without their make-up, I cannot leave without my jewelry. I'd feel naked. It's my armor. My love of vintage clothing has inspired several pieces in my Tea Drawings series!
Even when I go to the studio, I feel that what I wear is important. It is me respecting my process and my creativity. I used to paint in old men's pajama bottoms and a discarded t-shirt. I didn't want my beautiful vintage pieces to get ruined by charcoal and paint splatters. Now I wear a linen jumpsuit, it's oversized and breezy so I can move around comfortably. Over time it has, and will become, layered in not just the physical mess of art making but the energy of creation. This uniform makes me feel good. I can show up better for my creative life if I feel good. It's that simple!
P.S.
I don't think my art is sacred. I don't take my art that seriously. But, I believe that the act of self expression can be.
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