Free fallin'

Some of us hang onto summer with all our might.  Clinging to our flip flops, wearing shorts until Columbus Day, we resist giving up the warmth of the summer.  It is, after all, as much a state of mind as it is a season. Summer allows us to fill our creative wells with salty trips to the beach, smoky ribs on the grill, and wind swept boat rides.  Now it’s time to brace ourselves – or rather, embrace ourselves for a new season.  As that back-to-school attitude descends, don’t be like the kindergarten kid, kicking and screaming.Instead, open yourself up to change ( isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?) and try these  tips. 

• Go back-to-school shopping (even if you’re not going back):  What do you need for your art?  How about a new set of paintbrushes or a colorful journal?  Refresh your supplies and at the very least, treat yourself to a new pad of stick-it notes, just for fun.

• Reunite with your favorite classmates (OK, they don’t have to be classmates):  Get in touch with friends who support –or inspire—your creative life.  Better yet, make a new creative friend.  Go visit that fabric store, talk to the lady in the bead shop, or sign up for that dance class.

• What did you do over summer vacation?  Remember that writing prompt?  Try it for real.  Write about your experiences. 

• Translate your summer into your art.  Is there a seascape watercolor in you?  Or a summer romance novel waiting to be written?  Capture your summer experiences into your art.

• Don’t forget recess:   A quick fifteen minute escape outdoors might be just the trick to rejuvenate your senses.

 So, feel free to keep your seashells on your desk, but be willing to invite the fall season into your life.  With it comes the beautiful colors of change.  Let yourself be a part of it.