This week's reader's question forces me to think about an unfamiliar topic: leisure.
Which of your artistic talents do you find more relaxing?
My favorite creative outlets include writing, photography, floral designing, painting, and drawing. I find each one exciting and fulfilling, but which one brings me the most relaxation?
Drawing.
When my pencil meets paper, I disappear into a world where my thoughts meander, where my tension dissolves, where the demands of my daily life fade away.
When I created the above pencil drawing, for example, I didn't need to worry about defining characters or deepening conflict, as I do when I write fiction like Delivery, or to adjust aperture or ISO settings, as I do when I shoot photography. I didn't need to mix the perfect colors or wash messy brushes, as I do when I paint. I simply grabbed pencils and paper and lost myself in sculpting the image with graphite. Simple ingredients. Simple process.
So if drawing requires the least preparation and the least mental energy of my favorite activities, why do I choose it least often? It seems I prefer the two creative endeavors that bring me the most stress: writing and photography. But it's the best kind of stress--the kind that rejuvenates my spirit. Since exhilaration is more appealing to me than relaxation, and since life is short, weaving words and snapping shutters wins out most often. I'll likely finish writing my next novel before I'll complete another pencil drawing, not because I don't love drawing but because I love writing more. And because there aren't enough hours in the day to do it all!
What about YOU? What activity do you find most relaxing? Do you participate in it often? Why or why not? I'll be looking for your answers in the comment section below.
I'd say writing first. Then refurbishing furniture. When I'm priming, painting, glazing and scraping, I feel relaxed. I love taking a look at something old, worn, that no one else wanted and making it shine into something beautiful and valuable. Much like God with us! Have a great weekend, Diana!
ReplyDeleteJessica, what a beautiful analogy. No wonder you are a writer! I'm thankful that God is in the refurbishing business. I also wish you lived closer. I have two antique pieces of furniture that desperately need some TLC from skilled hands like yours. Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend as well!
ReplyDeleteLOVE your drawing of the cats. You are very talented.
ReplyDeleteI too draw, paint and a bit of photography. Plus other crafts.
I find graphite more relaxing and push myself with the others.
I am my own worse critic and find that the more stress the more I push myself to do better. At least attempt too.. lol
When I draw, paint etc I feel like I belong. If that makes any sense.
Bless you and yours,
Wendy
Thanks, Wendy! I am definitely a cat lover. Your comment about belonging makes total sense to me. God has given each of us certain talents, and it seems natural that we would feel at home when we are using them. I'm excited that we have so many interests in common, and I'd love to see your art and photography sometime. Thanks for dropping in today!
ReplyDeleteDiana,
ReplyDeleteYou've really got me thinking here! First of all your artwork is exquisite. I had to keep looking at it. I marvel at your talent, truly a gift!
Well, I USED to paint (mostly watercolor), sketch portraits of people, sew. All those activities would take me to another world where I would get lost in my own thoughts.
I haven't picked up a paint brush ,sketched or sewn in years. But I do find solace these days in walking in our garden, playing the piano,reading and of course, writing. My view from my upstairs writing space is beautiful, overlooking the woods. So I get to soak in the beauty of every season as I pour out my words. Actually right now,I can see Wayne, my husband digging a grave for our 13 yo Golden, Rosie. Oh she is still with us but is very frail and we know she doesn't have much time left. We want her to have a special resting place when the time comes. You might, I am looking out at the "window to my world" as I write.Thanks for listening~
Kathleen, saying goodbye to a beloved pet can be as heartbreaking as losing a human family member. Our family grieved over the loss of our favorite dog Lassie some years ago. I will keep you, your husband, and Rosie in my prayers. The view from your writing space sounds heavenly, a truly inspirational space. What a blessing to have that! I understand how favorite hobbies can fall by the wayside, but perhaps you'll pick up your paintbrush or sewing needle again someday. I would love to see your artwork. Thank you for your kind words, my friend, and for visiting here today. Blessings and peace to you!
ReplyDeleteKathleen, Prayers are said for you and yours. Losing a pet is like losing a child/family member. It is hard seeing them suffer so. I am sure that Rosie knows that you and your family love her dearly.
ReplyDeleteWendy