Shari EmersonJan 22, 2023

#ArtMusing

I'm trying to get more intentional with my creative energy - as it's a limited resource at the moment.

started today with journaling - something I only have time/focus for when I'm the first one up.

today I journaled about a series my brain is cooking up, and a motif from earlier artwork (the 90's - I can thank @simonrussell for this, he's the reason I just wrote a short essay on my art school days) came to mind.

As little creative energy as I have - writing is still an+

Show threadShari EmersonJan 22, 2023

essential vector into creative thoughts, ideas, generative processing.

I like practicing my cello but I'm not yet able to use that time very expressively. Painting is an expression of visual recall, or a construction of a known thing for me - I don't really do abstract very well. Writing seems to do a good job processing random recall with current creative hunger. It's a handy thing to know.

I forget how much new sights and experiences help.... probably due to my dislike of leaving the house+

Show threadShari Emerson

And no, none of this is new. Not rocket science, not groundbreaking.

Sometimes journaling feels like a chore, rather than a gift. Not all gifts are wrapped the same, I guess. But I want the outcomes, right now.

I want the reality of seeing if the versions on paper touch the experience I'm building in my head. No way of knowing if that's how other artists get "there".

Hey, #artistsonmastodon -

any of you want to muse about this? #MastoArt - come on over. Weigh in. Process matters 💖

Jan 22, 2023 at 5:05pmWeb
Show threadFran MasonJan 22, 2023
@CrowquillGal I've been journaling since age 10 in 1975, and I'm working on a memoir. When I'm stuck for how to write about or revise a topic, writing about it in my journal takes me one step back from it and often helps me get unstuck. Other times the journal helps me write with more vulnerability, because the journal is private, and that leads to better "real" writing.
Show threadShari EmersonJan 22, 2023

@franm since words are Not my primary creative outlet, they are a great way to knock other ideas loose. I think journals are multi-use for writers, but i'm curious - do you find other hobbies/crafts are good for jumpstarting new ideas or themes?

Thanks for responding, by the way - happy to meet you✨

Show threadFran MasonJan 22, 2023
@CrowquillGal thank you. Urban bike rides often inspire me with writing ideas because it's something I've done, since I was very young, to clear my head and boost my mood.
Show threadDwinleJan 23, 2023
@CrowquillGal @franm Sketching/ free writing
Show threadShari EmersonJan 23, 2023

@Dwinle @franm

these are great!!! is that for your work writing, visual art? collage?

can you tell us more?

Show threadDwinleJan 23, 2023
@CrowquillGal @franm I bought a book of Orson Welles art a few months ago and these sketches are very much in his style. I like trying stuff out, especially simple line. It is for my own enjoyment. 🙏🏻
Show threadShari EmersonJan 23, 2023
@Dwinle They are a lot of fun✨
Show threadDwinleJan 24, 2023
@CrowquillGal 🙏🏻