I always get up early. I schedule everything, my walk with Pickles, painting time, exercise, watching an art documentary , art business, blog, paying bills, or taking the time to hone in on my art skills before painting. So, getting up early is a priority.
Each day I take one hour to do “SW” , short for Skill Work. I came up with this from reading a number of books by Robin Sharma, an amazing life teacher. Before my painting session, I pick a random sketch from an anatomy book or a random photo and just copy. I would rather go to my painting, or my metro sketches but I do the hour to remind myself that I am a student of life, always learning.
Today I scheduled an hour to copy a skeleton from Fritz Schider’s “An Atlas Of Anatomy For Artists”. A humbling experience that is meditative and often leads to random doodles. It’s a win-win.
Each day, close your eyes, pick a book and a random page to work from. You will be surprised at how an hour a day of SW can open up that creative channel. It is like being a child that is learning to walk. Inspire yourself by the simple act of drawing. The practice of doing a task can work wonders. No matter how many exhibits or art talks I have had the good fortune to take part in over the years, I am always working on “SW and taking time to be present in some way.
In my heart I believe that we are here to help each other. If we each push ourselves and make the choice to do our best, then we can help others to be their best.
Jodi Bonassi: Art Creatures and Other Madness 