5 things I learned this summer
I should make huge apologies for stalling my blogging over the last couple of months, but I have a letter from ... the artist. I spent most of June, July and August at my summer house without access to the internet except through my phone. Blogging uses data.
If you follow me on Designing Home you know my life is very cyclical. I have to find time for two careers- interior decorating and art. I often flip my attention for blocks of time, and traditionally summer is art time. I allow my decor business to match my summer speed. It doesn't hurt to be unavailable!
I'm finding it difficult to accept summer has dwindled into fall. That doesn't mean I don't make art the rest of the year; I just have to share my time with business. But those summers are important for the rest of the year when you take time to reflect. I found out that:
Nature fuels creativity
A long summer, spent on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean with whales breaching and ice bergs slowly drifting, begs you to slow down.
Contemplation leads to renewal as you allow your mind to follow the rhythms of nature. When you relax this wonderful feeling of "anything is possible" descends. You make new connections, have creative thoughts, and appreciate your lot in life. Even the small things, usually ignored, are suddenly worthy of comment.
There's new life in old things
I love to see old houses on their last legs getting attention, and those that don't eventually fall down. It is in this debris, that I found inspiration for new work.
What began quietly at the end of last summer has blossomed into a whole new series of work this year and an exhibition in 2016.
Yes, I've taken over that holy of holies- the shed - as my studio. Move over Don, I've arrived. Good thing I learned how to use all the necessary tools years ago. I can make that band saw sing.
Nature provides the best colour schemes
My colour sensibilities are heightened every summer because I am so immersed in nature. I see coastal colours in my colour schemes in both art and decorating. It's as if I am storing up the feelings of summer in the the palette of my surroundings.
Know when to stop
Usually for a month each summer we trip around Europe with friends. This summer we decided to stay put as they went off to China! Yes, we traded China for a summer "around the bay" in a little harbour with a population of 30+. I'm so glad I listened to my body.
There are many kinds of artists
Past lives intersect in small communities where you know everyone and everyone knows you. Our friends, The Mahoneys, who live in the next community, have a lovely garden. I featured it in my last post as proof that many people do not realize how talented they truly are.
What were your summer revelations?