Smile!
I read in a book by Steve Maxwell (a pretty well-known exercise and fitness hard-arse) a simple hack to counter workout intensity – smiling. Next time you see someone grunting or contorting their face (you know the type – jogging or riding a bicycle and looking like they are literally on the brink of death) …
From one starting point ….
…. a Sumi-e painting workshop During 2020 I was fortunate to attend a half-day Sumi-e workshop with Ken Lamb* – a master of the art. It reignited a joy in me that I felt back in the 80s when I first tried my hand at it. I will always be a beginner and a wayward …
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Slow drawing
Two months ago I’d never heard of this. Now I’m a bit of a fan. For me it’s generally a drop-in for 5 minutes when I need a break from what I’m doing, or to reset my body or mind or creative thinking. I now know that 5 minutes becomes a whole lot longer! What …
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Take Care
Often when we wish someone good-bye – we say “take care”. Like most language habits it’s trotted out unconsciously, just part of the sleep state we spend most of our time in. But is it worth pondering what “take care” might mean in your day? What would it be like to approach things with care? …
Living a good life
We all drift… sometimes an hour is lost scrolling (more on that another time). Sometimes for weeks or years. Pam recently read Julia Baird’s book Phosphorescence*. One of the key themes that resonated with Pam was “Living deliberately” – it seems a sure antidote to “drift”. Julia Baird is a political journalist and presenter in …
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August awakens the senses ??
Winter is coming to a close. Get a jump start on the awakening of Spring with some sensory outing to stimulate the creative muscle. QVB After Dark 455 George Street, SydneyThroughout Augusthttps://www.qvb.com.au/#after-dark After Dark Tour Series – just a little spookyAfter Dark Live Event – Thu 22Heart of the QVB – an immersive installation Cherry …
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Genius
I recently rewatched the TED talk “Your elusive creative genius” by Elizabeth Gilbert from 2009. It reminded me again of the possibilities that await if I am continually opening myself to their arrival. Some historical background Ancient Greece and ancient Rome did not believe that creativity came from human beings but believed it was a …
Marie Kondo for the creative spirit
The sensation that is Marie Kondo has the magic of old truths that ring true being repackaged in a new and exciting antidote to a very common malaise – clutter. Thankfully the last decade has grown a number of movements attacking the very Western (primarily North American) conspicuous consumption and excess. These movements like: Minimalism, …
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The Artist’s Date – 7 possibilities to inspire for July
Taking yourself on a weekly Artist’s Date (that’s a date with yourself) as an opportunity to let yourself follow your curiosities, is part of the creative awakening process in the book, The Artist’s Way, by Julia Cameron, a 12 week do-it-yourself creativity course. Here are seven inspirations for July: 1. The National Biennial of New …
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Design! Not just the look and feel, but how it works.
The Look – it’s important – whether it’s a one-off unique and personal item, a fully crafted corporate brand or a family of diverse cross media pieces. The Feel – it’s what stops me in the street to take a longer look, what makes me respect, empathise, love, read, keep. Every piece has to reach …
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