Almost Instant Inspiration

While you're thinking about making New Year's resolutions to become more healthy, fit and organized, why not make a few to become more creative, as well? Perhaps you'd like to carve out a space to make your art, or squeeze a little money from your budget to buy supplies, or maybe it's just a matter of taking the time to slow down enough to let creativity happen. It's hard to be creative, after all, when you're running around checking tasks off a list. For a fantastic example of how to let creativity into your life in 2009, here's mixed media rtist Jane LaFazio of Plain Jane Studios describing one of her favorite paths to inspiration:

"My husband and I like to go camping (just overnight and just right here on the Southern California coast.) We reserve a campsite on one of the beach parks, we pack the car, drive 45 minutes or so to the campsite, pitch the tent and walk across the street to the gourmet grocery store to buy dinner to go. Then we eat it at our campsite while enjoying a glass of wine. Next morning, we get up early and walk the beach……picking up shells and treasures along the way. When we return to our campsite, we spread our findings out on the table and draw them. Totally delightful! We pack up the tent around noon, and come home feeling refreshed and happy."

To hear more of Jane's creative wisdom check out her blog at http://www.janeville.blogspot.com/. If you happen to live in the San Diego area, Jane will be teaching art classes at the San Diego Museum of Art in 2009.