falling in love with colored pencils 🌷
Granting you permission to make some marks - a scribble, some fun shapes, some words that sound nice together – in whatever medium or means of expression you stumble upon that feels right.
I've recently fallen in love with a box of colored pencils that had, until this past year, sat untouched in the back of a drawer.
They’re having their moment now and have quickly become what I reach for when the creative process begins to feel stale or overwhelming.
Just the act of holding them evokes a sense of nostalgia and familiarity, yet it feels so novel to draw familiar subjects in a different medium after using exclusively acrylic paint for about a decade.
Artists and creative entrepreneurs, especially those who work exclusively in one medium, I encourage you to set aside a moment to pick up a medium that’s novel to you – one that’s not tied to your work or any associations you've developed with the creative process in that particular medium - and make some marks with no overarching goal, just for the sake of the creative process. Let it reignite that spark of creative wonder.
Sending 🩵 & 🌷🌻🌼 + a spark of creativity to you on this snowy January evening ⛄
Here are two 5” x 7” @prismacolor pencil drawings on cotton, coldpress @legionpaper
Colored pencils offer a unique creative outlet that can bring fresh perspectives to artists accustomed to a single medium, such as acrylics. They enable artists to explore new textures and color blends, prompting innovative approaches to familiar subjects. The tactile experience of using colored pencils can evoke nostalgia, allowing individuals to reconnect with their inner child, fostering free expression without the pressure of producing perfect art. For those interested in enhancing their skills, resources such as online tutorials and community workshops can provide helpful guidance. Additionally, experimenting with layering techniques and mixing colors can lead to unexpected outcomes, keeping the creative process exciting. Take time to break out of your comfort zone, try different brands, and explore various styles, like adult coloring books or sketching nature. Engaging with fellow artists through social media platforms can also provide a support network for sharing ideas and receiving feedback. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the creative journey, so allow yourself to explore and make marks without judgment.