Prior to leaving my studio, I usually feel in a panic to finish a project, and this July was no exception. I had to accept the fact that it was not going to happen, and I left three small bee paintings on my desk.
For me, it is the discomfort of breaking my routine. Why is it so hard to leave the comfort of my surroundings, when it is the very thing that recharges creativity?
A fun visit with my mother and two of my sisters sparked much laughter, even in the heat of South Carolina. Traveling with my mother to Maine, where Michael joined us, enjoying the scenery, two grandcats, and all the projects our son and daughter-in-law have accomplished in their new home. Having coffee on their porch was the best! We visited Cushing, Maine, to see the Olson homestead, as I shared in last week’s blog. Another highlight was visiting Longfellow’s Garden Center and finding room in the car for more plants!
I took more photos of bees to use for future work. Maybe. A break gave me new ideas to embark on…
I found inspiration in unexpected places, like the color of cauliflower in complementary yellow and purple, opposite each other on the color wheel, nestled side by side in the wooden bin at a farmer’s market in Warren. Or the “new” addition of a breakfast shop in Gardiner, built from old timbers, recycled, reused, repurposed wood, windows, stained glass, metal decor, and an astonishing glass roof brought in from somewhere. But in its appearance, it had always been there!
I brought my laptop and would write or do research when I had the chance on my rough draft for my next book, about three generations of women (a story based on maternal grandmothers) in their own voices and points of view.
Returning to Wisconsin, we took the scenic route along the Great Lakes. I am always amazed at the expansive freshwater surrounded by woods, distant islands, and the shoreline. The openness of the landscape that revels on the horizon. It’s a lot for my brain to take in!
After a two-week hiatus, we returned to dry, hot weather, smoky haze from distant fires, a withered garden, and unhappy hens.
Then there is the reality of laundry, meal planning, and grocery shopping.
Just as hard as it was to leave my unfinished bee paintings, I think it was more challenging to work on them again. Much to my surprise, they only needed some tweaking; they were further along than I thought. A razor blade to scratch in some highlights, and touches of Payne’s gray on legs and antennae. I’m happy to tell you they are mounted in float frames, ready for the Appleton Art Fair this coming weekend.
What are your experiences leaving your routine and getting back to it when you return? Please feel free to pass along any tips in the comments below.
