I'm going to try something new. I'm going share my Artist Dates from the past week on Fridays. I struggle to craft space in my life to play creatively. I know that I take myself and my art too seriously, and I know it's important to play. So maybe some accountability will help me be more consistent. If you identify with this struggle, hopefully this encourges you to take some time to go on your own Artist Date.
Julia Cameron's definition of an Artist Date is, "a once-weekly festive solo, expedition to explore something that inerests you. the Artists Date need not be overtly 'artistic'- think mischief more than mastery" (https://juliacameronlive.com/basic-tools/artists-dates/).
MY definition of an artist date is slightly different: The Artist Date is a festive, expedition to explore something that interests you. The Artist Date need not be overtly "artistic"- think mischief more than mastery... For me, creating with my family is an option I like to keep open. Although I strive for solo Artist Dates, sometimes creating with my daughter or as a family is something that brings me a lot of joy. Having partners in my creativity helps me relax and play.
I made a Cake!
I got low-key obsessed with the Great British Bake Off over Christmas 2020. There's something so comforting about watching a show where the worst thing can happen is poor looking dessert. There was fresh fruit on sale and I eggs that needed to be used, so I made a cake! Cake itself was a vanilla sponge, the frosting was buttercream made from scratch, the filling was a raspberry jam that I bought at my local farmers market, and the toppings were fresh fruit. I had a lot of fun making this cake. I'm not a great baker at all, but I felt like this was my first successful cake (I've made a plenty flops before).
I tried a new Coffee Shop!
I tired a new coffee shop. Several of my local friends recommended the Buttercup All Day Cafe so I checked it out. I love exploring different menus and trying to recreate the drinks I love at home (the one I made at home was not as pretty and it did not taste as good). I got a latte and it was great. I'm not sure why drinking coffee out of mug at a cafe is so relaxing to me, but it really is.
We took a road trip!
I love to travel. There's something about a road trip which is greatly satisfying to me. Planning a trip, looking for fun place to stop, picking out a new audiobook for everyone to enjoy... this is fun for me. Creating an experience for me and family to enjoy and relax.
I played with a new watercolor brush and abstract painting!
I got gifted some beautiful new paintbrushes recently. After a particularly difficult day, I went to the art shed, turned on some music, and just messed around for about an hour. I am not an abstract painter. The painting did not turn out beautiful, but it was fun. To me, that is the point of the artist date: to enjoy the process of creating.
Did you go on a creative adventure this week? Let me know in the comments below!
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