Making Artistic Expression a Practical Part of Your Everyday Life
Artistic pursuits can be difficult to prioritize in today's fast paced, economically-focused world. We sat down to provide some useful, practical ways to make artistic expression accessible and realistic in the average person's lifestyle.
Have an "art spot" prepped and ready. Part of the problem with traditional artistic activities are all the supplies and prep work it takes to be ready for oil painting, sewing, or engraving. A great way to make your pursuits more attainable is to have a corner of a room ready for action at any given time.
The art spot can be a complete room, or it can simply be a folding table off to the side of the dining space. Small but mighty should be the aim when space is at a premium. Fold open desks/furniture can be an option, as well as underused closets, corners without a purpose, or even a rolling cart that can be rolled into a different space when not in use.
Obviously, "ready" is different then "messy". Having a fresh or in progress canvas out and ready is one thing – having leftover brushes unwashed from the last painting is another. Practice putting everything away as soon as its feasible (allowing for dry time of course) and then having the space readied again for the next time you have an extra 30 minutes to spare.
Make art portable. Mini travel watercolor kits, a sketchbook that goes with you everywhere, the crochet bag for the waiting room or during TV time, or a whittling knife in your pocket (clean up after your wood shavings!) can make "art" something you create at any time and on the go.
Add artistic qualities to your everyday activities. Rather than use a traditional daily planner, DIY a scrapbook styled planner, complete with doodle pages and sketchbook art. Don't just bake a snack: style the snack with candied fruit, edible flowers, or a beautiful presentation. Consider how your fix it skills in the garage can allow you the opportunity to make the solutions beautiful as well.
Art was never intended to be separated from everyday life. Go forth and make daily living joyful and creative again!
