I’m either creative, or I’m not. It’s sort of that simple. There have been times when I have so many ideas, I can’t write them down fast enough. I have created some amazing things during these creative boosts. Other times, I have been so deep in a hole of nothing that creativity was just a word I once knew.
I’m on a creative upswing right now, and it feels so good! I am writing, drawing, sewing, and even finding creative ways to express myself in the kitchen and in my home. That “creative spark” is on fire!
I felt like it was critical to talk about creativity, inspiration and the beginning of the art quilt design process before I launch Sewliloquies into the techniques and skills needed to make fabric into magic.
In my podcast, Moving Beyond the Pattern, I talk about how important it is to find your own personal artistic voice. Quilters often use patterns, but if you are ready to move into creating art quilts, you have to move beyond patterns and toward individualized creations. I also interview artist and art educator (and my husband) Oliver Frid, who offers insight into random inspiration.
In my video, Subjects and Sources, I step through the different subjects artists typically choose, and specific things that can help ignite inspiration. This video is jam packed with ways you can use your individuality to find the perfect subjects for your art quilts.
Podcasts and videos are accessible through Patreon. For more information, check out patreon.com/sewliloquies.
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One thing I have noticed about finding inspiration is that it comes at you, at the most inconvenient times, in the most unexpected places, from the most unplanned sources.
Winter is difficult here in New England where I live. Snow, cold, grey. It can be hard to be optimistic about creating in that environment. Yet, if I slow down, be mindful, and take a close look, inspiration is everywhere.
In the winter, one of my favorite moments of the day is making myself a mug of dark cocoa hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream and a peppermint stick. The flavors combine to give such a rich, soothing and warm experience. Will this moment inspire me to make an art quilt? Maybe, maybe not.
Inspiration is so very personal, and it’s powerful when it hits. While there are so many paths to finding your own creative energy, my top three tips to Get Creative are:
- Always carry a sketchbook with you
- Always carry a camera with you (or use your phone camera)
- Look everywhere for inspiration, as it can truly come from the most unexpected place.
