Imagine That

But it was just my imagination
running away with me.
It was just my imagination
running away with me...

-Temptations

After my creative meltdown the other day, I decided it was time to just chill-lax and let imagination rule my world. Maybe some "non-thinking" and unplanned work would do the trick to get me out of the creative doldrums.

Giving myself the freedom to allow my pencil to wander at will across my sketch pad was just the answer I was looking for. The following sketches came completely from my mind and I actually think they are successful.

Here's why:

• They met my creative goal
• They are different than my usual subjects
• They are interesting
• They have inspired me to create similar works
• They freed my mind

My first "doodle" Imaginary Lady

"Mermaid" just appeared out of nowhere. I think it's because my mind was just free to be.

With my mind recharged, I felt it was time to go back and revisit a previous drawing (Hawaiian Beauty -Art Day 101 posting) and try my hand at a water color rendering of her. I wanted to test myself at being able to develop a plan, redraw the image, and paint it without trying to change it in the middle of the process which I often do. I was happy with myself for accomplishing those goals. Reviewing the finish piece, I learned that I can take it a bit slower and stick with a plan. I know that her Marilyn Monroe lips didn't need to be so cherry red, and maybe her hair is painted more than I wanted, but overall I feel it's a success and a great lesson. Remember, people have not been my subject of choice, but lately I have been intrigued with the human form. I'm excited to see where this road leads me.

Hawaiian Beauty [watercolor on paper]