In this new chapter in my life, I am focusing on the ever escaping notion of balance. The last five years had me entrenched with expression and art. Making time to create and play has certainly been a priority. My bestie Sacha had taken an art class a few years ago and I was in awe of what she created. It had color, collage andportraiture; all my favorites. As much as I loved it, I didn’t even consider trying to do it; I just admired what these amazing artists can do. When Sacha does anything, she is committed and focused, two qualities I seem to be lacking at times. This past January Sacha invited me to join her as she once again took this workshop. The artist/instructor, Christine Peloquin, now had her own studio in Mt. Dora, just 40 minutes away. Boy did I resist. Sacha is also determined, she was relentless, she broke down the process and convinced me I could do it. So I did. And in my usual m.o., I brought not just one, but two boards in mind that I wanted to create. My plan was to learn the process and have fun, whatever happens, happens. As long as the subjects (my hubby and I) are recognizable I am good with that.
Well, on day two as we began the drawing process I started thinking to myself, “What the hell am I doing here?” The only reason(s) I kept going was to save myself from embarrassment and I didn’t have my own car to leave! I stuck with it and was pleased enough with the results. And, of course, since once is never enough, I took the class again in February. This time I had a talk with myself, I knew the process and it was time to go deeper; to pay attention and really see as an artist. No expectation of instant gratification, I had all day to slowly immerse in the process. Of course the instructor and my friends oooed and ahhhhed and complimented me and the instructor was noticeably surprised. I did it! Not only did I love how the piece turned out, I was proud of myself for surrendering to the process.