Left to my own devices
I was finding it hard to think. So I decided to go on my first "solo creative retreat" which is what I'm calling renting an airbnb in the mountains and staying there alone with art supplies. I didn't impose too many constraints. I just wanted to let myself do whatever I felt like doing for a few days. It's funny how alien that felt at first.
It was fascinating to observe myself alone. No social media, no email, no chores to do. It turns out I’m a pretty fun gal. I ate cheez-its in the bubble bath; watched my favorite movie Beginners for the millionth time; wrote; made art; smoked weed; went for a walk in the forest, stripped off all my clothes, stood on a big rock and thought: yes.
I came back to LA feeling a little clearer, a little more familiar with myself. Making art can be scary. But I’m so much more curious than I am afraid.
PERMISSION TO MAKE A MESS
For years, I’d prepare to make an art mess by taping brown paper over our kitchen table. Then, a few months ago, I purchased a plastic cutting mat exactly the size of our table, and I feel like I leveled up. No paper, no tape, just a protective cover I can pop on whenever I want to do an art project out there. When I’m done, I give it a quick wipe down and stow it away!
Measure your table and find a cutting mat of the same size! Here’s where I got mine.
Measure your table and find a cutting mat of the same size! Here’s where I got mine.
DIRECTIONS
The promotional period when a book comes out is so intense, sometimes it’s tempting to never talk about your book again. But I put so much of myself into this book, and I’m ready to shout it from the rooftops again. So here’s a reminder that Directions exists. Read the introduction here. Buy it here.
FUN, FOCUSED FEBRUARY
I am taking February off. My biggest client has approved a 1 month break. I’m going to be off social media. I’m not going to publish this newsletter and I’m not going to socialize much. My shop remains closed until further notice.
I’m saying no to everything else so I can say yes to myself.
♥ HB
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