Hi Again Lynn........Well, my pastels are on the kitchen counter, a rough sketch is mounted on the board and the boarding facility that my animals are to be in for 6 weeks just told me that it will cost $3000, oh, yea.....and that's because I too am having serious (expensive,) surgery in the near future. The "shame on me for having purchased and then wasted all those supplies," tape has been rotating in my head for a long time. Now,Today thanks to you, I'm having guests for lunch, but until then, I'm playing with that painting and practicing my stroke work..........So glad to have found you last week..so very glad.
Oh, I’m so, so glad you found me too — it feels like we were meant to cross paths.
I just want to say: you are doing something really brave and beautiful today. You’re setting down that old “shame tape” and choosing to create anyway — even in the middle of all the stress, the expenses, the upcoming surgery, and the big emotions that come with it. That’s not small. That’s huge.
Your supplies were never wasted — they’ve been patiently waiting for you. And here you are, showing up, putting pastel to paper, and making a little space for joy and practice before your guests arrive. That’s powerful. That’s life-giving.
I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as you head toward surgery. And I’ll be right here, cheering for every single stroke you make in the meantime. So proud of you.
I’m sorry you have to have surgery. But making art is the perfect way to recuperate and gain strength. Tell yourself that’s the reason you bought those supplies.
Your thoughts are so appreciated. I've had many surgeries and this will be the biggest of all. I have been playing with art that I didn't really like for so very long that I thought that there was something wrong with me. Thanks to Lynn and my joyful connection to a couple of sensational teachers, I have finally found my passion and when I get home I'll be digging right in. I draw in graphite and prefer dry mediums.........but the one I love is soft pastel. Unfortunately I bought a ton of supplies during Covid when we thought that pigments would be hard to find post lock down......and then learned that I couldn't use them do to 2 different health issues...I am not one of those people who lays in bed and has no energy. I am like the Energizer bunny. Nothing keeps me down for long. So no one sees me as someone to feel sorry for. For which I thank God...I usually heal very quickly after rehab and lots of PT. This will be harder and longer but I'll do just fine.
But after Covid, I kept investing in art supplies and now I have so much in so many directions that therre's no room at the Inn so to speak..
Thanks to a suggestion years ago I kept on searching and have found a teacher who uses that medium almost exclusively. I tried some I have on hand and the stars began to shine again. I really love it...........Finally! I'm ready to release all the supplies that have taken up residence in my brain and focus on something that makes me want to get up and get going again.
I love how you spell your name and I apologize for not getting my much shorter
response to you in the right place. I'm techno challenged to the nth degree so it's out there somewhere in cyberspace, where another person is wondering who I am and why I wrote ...LOL! So I thank you for your lovely thoughts.......and my future responses won't be long at all.
Is there any chance of taking a small stash of supplies with you to the hospital? I had to spend a lot of time in rehab and of course that’s different, but it did make the time go faster to have something to play with. If you don’t use them, you haven’t lost anything.
Hi Bettye. Thanks for the idea. I will be taking my sketch book and pencils and my IPad. The issue is that it's doubtful that I will be able to use them for a few months. However.......just seeing them there does make sense and a big difference. You are right!
Bettye, that’s such a thoughtful suggestion—thank you. You’re so right, even having a small stash can make a huge difference, just knowing it’s there. And I love that mindset: if you don’t use it, no harm done—but if you do, it might bring comfort and a little joy. I really appreciate you sharing that.
Yes it is a very thoughtful suggestion. I won't be able to have anything like that with me at first. But I have pencils and a sketch book that will travel with me to the Neuro Rehab hospital......and I'm bringing my Ipad. I can do a lot of virtual work if I have the use of my hand back during rehab.time.
Judith, that sounds like such a wise and hopeful plan. Even just having your sketchbook, pencils, and iPad nearby is a beautiful way to stay connected to your creative self during such a big time. Wishing you steady healing and a gentle return to movement—one line, one moment at a time. You’ve got this.
(And don’t worry about it being long — I loved every word!)
Thank you so much for sharing your heart and your journey. It sounds like you have walked through so much with such strength, resilience, and an amazing spirit. I love how you described yourself as the Energizer bunny — I can feel that energy and determination in every line you wrote!
It’s beautiful to hear that you’ve reconnected with your passion for soft pastels. Isn’t it incredible how finding the right medium — and the right teacher — can light that spark again? It sounds like the art supplies you gathered during those uncertain times served a purpose too: they kept your hope alive. And now, you’re ready to focus, clear the space (literally and mentally!), and pour your heart into what you truly love. That’s such powerful, exciting energy to carry with you into this next chapter.
I’ll be thinking of you and sending so much love and encouragement as you move through surgery and healing. You are already doing beautifully — and I can’t wait to hear about all the amazing things you’ll create when you’re back home, pastels in hand, stars shining bright again.
And don’t worry for a second about technology mix-ups — happens to the best of us! I’m just so grateful you’re here, sharing your story and your spirit.
This was so ringingly true to my experience. I have some gorgeous gouache gifted to me at Christmas and I am afraid to open them because I hear they can dry out and go mouldy! Thank you for the encouragement to start anywhere with anything. We are all artists whether we are practising or not. 💜
Elaine, I totally get it—sometimes the “fancy” supplies feel almost too precious to touch! But I have a feeling once you crack open that gouache, the fun (and maybe a little mess!) will begin. You’re an artist already—whether the paint is wet, dry, or still in the box! Go play!
Elaine, your gouache may dry out even if you don’t use it. I stepped back from watercolor for a few years. When I returned to it, most of the tubes had dried out. I learned to use it or lose it. That applies to so many things. So, dare to paint incoherent, ugly stuff. And keep on painting, and don’t get too attached to anything you paint. For me, painting is about a learning process and following intuition. I hope you’ll find joy and fulfillment as you explore!
I love everything you shared here — such wisdom. “Use it or lose it” really does apply to so many parts of life, not just paint! I especially love your encouragement to paint the incoherent and the ugly and to not get too attached. That’s such a freeing reminder. It’s the showing up, the learning, and the following of intuition that makes the creative journey so rich. Thank you for sharing your beautiful perspective — it’s so inspiring!
You’re so welcome, Elaine — I’m really glad it landed with you. Sometimes we just need a little nudge or reminder to trust ourselves and keep going. I’m so glad you’re taking it on board… you’ve got this. 💛
This resonated with me too! Something I learned from James Gurney is to store gouache and watercolors in mason jars or ziplock bags - airtight containers to keep them from drying out. In my own experience, sometimes adding water to dried gouache/watercolors brings them back to life :)
Thanks, Dawn! I love that tip from James Gurney—he always has such practical magic. I’ve never thought to use mason jars for storing paint, but now I’m curious. And yes to bringing dried gouache back to life with a little water—such a good metaphor for us too, right? A little care, a little time, and we’re back in motion. 💛
I know your bio says 'for women' but coming across your post must have been meant for me, a guy. I was so good for so long about sketching everyday, and somewhere along the line it went all to hell. So now there's the guilt everyday of I should be sketching, or finishing that painting, or working on my website. Reading your post helped with some ideas, and made me realize that we are also busy. Work, kids, appointments, life. And that it's okay to feel that way.
I’m so glad you found the post — and you are absolutely welcome here, anytime! Creativity doesn’t belong to just one group; it’s something we all wrestle with and are invited into.
I hear you on the guilt — it creeps in so easily when life gets full. But you’re right: work, kids, appointments, life — it all takes energy, and it’s okay to feel stretched. It doesn’t mean you’ve lost your creativity. It’s still there, waiting for you, and it will meet you right where you are, even if it’s in small, imperfect moments.
I’m cheering you on as you find your way back to it — one sketch, one breath, one small step at a time.
I have made a perfect ‘studio’ with all those mostly unopened art supplies , it’s the perfect place to create art equipment on one side sewing machine on the other…..this creator mainly keeps away as much as possible, when I go in I tell the room I’ll be there soon!!
Because of all the things you say …… every time I read your words, I feel a little less annoyed with me, I didn’t know it isn’t just me, this so liberating😉
Penelope, your studio sounds like a little sanctuary just waiting for you—and the fact that you talk to it makes it even more magical. I’m so glad you feel less alone; you’re in good company. Creativity has its own rhythm, and yours is unfolding just as it should.
We have a little family art club on zoom every Saturday morning for an hour. We use all the supplies, draw, paint, stick, collage. Some weeks we do ugly art. We try really hard not to compare, just do what you feel. It's so great!
Pauline, that sounds absolutely wonderful! I love everything about your little family art club — the playfulness, the freedom, the joy of just making without comparing. And “ugly art” days? Yes, please! That’s where the magic often begins. What a beautiful way to stay connected and creative. Thank you for sharing this — it made me smile big.
This has been my story for quite a few years. I enjoy watercolor and collage when I will sit down and just do it, but exhaustion gets in the way-and guilt. Too many irons in the fire-a family business, an aged Mom who is in great shape considering her age, a 5 year old granddaughter and a daughter who is in the initial stages of divorce. And a devoted husband who gets the least attention. I do keep art supplies handy and dabble as I can. Thanks for your encouraging post.
Oh Donna, I hear you — that's a full and beautiful (and exhausting) life you're carrying. It’s no wonder art sometimes gets pushed to the edges. I love that you keep your supplies nearby and still find little ways to dabble — that’s not small, that’s sacred.
Even a few minutes of watercolor or collage is a win, especially when your energy is being pulled in so many directions. Be gentle with yourself. You’re showing up in so many important ways — and when you sit down to create, even for a moment, it’s a gift to you and the world. 💛
Having been "interrupted", it is so difficult to return to those glowering art materials. Thank you, it is just what I need to hear and know I won't be the only one!
Deborah, I hear you—those art supplies can feel like they’re giving us the side-eye sometimes! I’m so glad this message reached you at the right time. You’re definitely not alone. Your creativity is still there, patiently waiting for you, no pressure, just ready whenever you are.
Yes! That made me smile too. Just having the supplies out feels like a low-key way to say, “I’m still in the game.” No pressure, just quiet readiness. Love it.
Andrea, that absolutely is a start — and a beautiful one at that! Just opening the sketchbook, even once, sends a little signal to your creative self: “I’m here.” And that box of supplies sounds dreamy — like a treasure chest full of possibilities. Sometimes the simple act of beginning again, even in the tiniest way, is what opens the door. I’m cheering you on — keep going, one page at a time.
I love this post, Lynn. I have my own private art store in my basement. In an insightful and caring way, you've laid out the inner dynamics of acquiring art supplies.
I've been learning how to paint with acrylics, taking online instruction for the past year with an extraordinary teacher. I paint in my sketchbook regularly now.
As I'm painting more, I'm buying less. The fulfillment is now in the actual making.
Linda, I love hearing this — your “private art store” made me smile! It sounds like you’ve found such a beautiful rhythm with your painting practice. I especially love what you said: the fulfillment is now in the actual making. That’s the shift, isn’t it? From gathering to creating, from longing to doing. What a gift to have found a teacher who inspires that kind of growth. Thank you for sharing this — it’s so encouraging and deeply grounding.
Thank you, Kimberly! And oh, I get it — those M. Harding paints are gorgeous and definitely feel like a splurge! It’s totally normal to feel a little intimidated at first. Just remember, they’re there to serve your creativity, not to scare you. You already have everything you need — now it’s just about letting yourself play and seeing where it leads. 💛
I can relate. I have precious pressure whenever i use expensive paper. I get too nervous to draw properly. But once i switch to a small sketchbook i made from cheap yet good-quality paper, i find myself drawing better and more freely.
I can completely relate to that! There’s something about “precious” materials that can make creativity feel so heavy and high-stakes. I love that you found a way to outsmart that pressure with your homemade sketchbook — that’s brilliant. Sometimes giving ourselves permission to play freely is all it takes to bring the joy (and the better drawings) back. Thank you for sharing this — such a great reminder!
I could pin this to the bathroom mirror..as a daily reminder! You are so inspirational, Lynn!! As much as gelli printing has got my attention, I'm stopping at getting yet more art supplies. I am still dragging around a set of oil paints I got as a teen (50+ years later) and used a couple of times then, but some still tubes seem ok. As I watch online oil painting demos I hope to get them out and just see how useful they are (or finally dispose of them.)
I love this so much — and I’m honored you’d even think about pinning my words to your mirror! That means more than you know.
And wow, what a beautiful story about your oil paints — they’ve been patient companions all these years, just waiting for you. I think there’s something really special about circling back to them now, with all the wisdom and experience you’ve gained. Whether you revive them or lovingly let them go, it’s all part of your creative journey. Either way, you’re honoring your creative spirit — and that’s what matters most.
Isn’t it the best feeling to fall back in love with something familiar? Colored pencils have such a quiet kind of magic — so easy to pick up, no pressure, just pure joy. I’m so glad you’re enjoying them again. Here’s to letting simple tools lead us back to ourselves. 💛
The 'for women' was tongue in cheek. I'm glad I found your post, and thanks for the encouraging words. Maybe time for a post-it with some of your words.
Ah, got it! 😊 I’m really glad you found the post too — and if any of my words make it onto a post-it, I’m truly honored. Sometimes that little square of encouragement is all it takes to get us back in motion. Keep going — your creativity is still right there, waiting for you. 💛
Peggy! That might be the best compliment ever. 😊 I promise I’m not psychic—just a fellow artist who’s been there, too. I’m so glad the words are landing right where you need them. Keep going, you’re not alone. 💛
Hi Again Lynn........Well, my pastels are on the kitchen counter, a rough sketch is mounted on the board and the boarding facility that my animals are to be in for 6 weeks just told me that it will cost $3000, oh, yea.....and that's because I too am having serious (expensive,) surgery in the near future. The "shame on me for having purchased and then wasted all those supplies," tape has been rotating in my head for a long time. Now,Today thanks to you, I'm having guests for lunch, but until then, I'm playing with that painting and practicing my stroke work..........So glad to have found you last week..so very glad.
Hi Judith,
Oh, I’m so, so glad you found me too — it feels like we were meant to cross paths.
I just want to say: you are doing something really brave and beautiful today. You’re setting down that old “shame tape” and choosing to create anyway — even in the middle of all the stress, the expenses, the upcoming surgery, and the big emotions that come with it. That’s not small. That’s huge.
Your supplies were never wasted — they’ve been patiently waiting for you. And here you are, showing up, putting pastel to paper, and making a little space for joy and practice before your guests arrive. That’s powerful. That’s life-giving.
I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as you head toward surgery. And I’ll be right here, cheering for every single stroke you make in the meantime. So proud of you.
I’m sorry you have to have surgery. But making art is the perfect way to recuperate and gain strength. Tell yourself that’s the reason you bought those supplies.
Hi Bettye, (This is a long one!)
Your thoughts are so appreciated. I've had many surgeries and this will be the biggest of all. I have been playing with art that I didn't really like for so very long that I thought that there was something wrong with me. Thanks to Lynn and my joyful connection to a couple of sensational teachers, I have finally found my passion and when I get home I'll be digging right in. I draw in graphite and prefer dry mediums.........but the one I love is soft pastel. Unfortunately I bought a ton of supplies during Covid when we thought that pigments would be hard to find post lock down......and then learned that I couldn't use them do to 2 different health issues...I am not one of those people who lays in bed and has no energy. I am like the Energizer bunny. Nothing keeps me down for long. So no one sees me as someone to feel sorry for. For which I thank God...I usually heal very quickly after rehab and lots of PT. This will be harder and longer but I'll do just fine.
But after Covid, I kept investing in art supplies and now I have so much in so many directions that therre's no room at the Inn so to speak..
Thanks to a suggestion years ago I kept on searching and have found a teacher who uses that medium almost exclusively. I tried some I have on hand and the stars began to shine again. I really love it...........Finally! I'm ready to release all the supplies that have taken up residence in my brain and focus on something that makes me want to get up and get going again.
I love how you spell your name and I apologize for not getting my much shorter
response to you in the right place. I'm techno challenged to the nth degree so it's out there somewhere in cyberspace, where another person is wondering who I am and why I wrote ...LOL! So I thank you for your lovely thoughts.......and my future responses won't be long at all.
Is there any chance of taking a small stash of supplies with you to the hospital? I had to spend a lot of time in rehab and of course that’s different, but it did make the time go faster to have something to play with. If you don’t use them, you haven’t lost anything.
Hi Bettye. Thanks for the idea. I will be taking my sketch book and pencils and my IPad. The issue is that it's doubtful that I will be able to use them for a few months. However.......just seeing them there does make sense and a big difference. You are right!
Best of luck and healing.
Bettye, that’s such a thoughtful suggestion—thank you. You’re so right, even having a small stash can make a huge difference, just knowing it’s there. And I love that mindset: if you don’t use it, no harm done—but if you do, it might bring comfort and a little joy. I really appreciate you sharing that.
Yes it is a very thoughtful suggestion. I won't be able to have anything like that with me at first. But I have pencils and a sketch book that will travel with me to the Neuro Rehab hospital......and I'm bringing my Ipad. I can do a lot of virtual work if I have the use of my hand back during rehab.time.
Judith, that sounds like such a wise and hopeful plan. Even just having your sketchbook, pencils, and iPad nearby is a beautiful way to stay connected to your creative self during such a big time. Wishing you steady healing and a gentle return to movement—one line, one moment at a time. You’ve got this.
Hi Bettye,
(And don’t worry about it being long — I loved every word!)
Thank you so much for sharing your heart and your journey. It sounds like you have walked through so much with such strength, resilience, and an amazing spirit. I love how you described yourself as the Energizer bunny — I can feel that energy and determination in every line you wrote!
It’s beautiful to hear that you’ve reconnected with your passion for soft pastels. Isn’t it incredible how finding the right medium — and the right teacher — can light that spark again? It sounds like the art supplies you gathered during those uncertain times served a purpose too: they kept your hope alive. And now, you’re ready to focus, clear the space (literally and mentally!), and pour your heart into what you truly love. That’s such powerful, exciting energy to carry with you into this next chapter.
I’ll be thinking of you and sending so much love and encouragement as you move through surgery and healing. You are already doing beautifully — and I can’t wait to hear about all the amazing things you’ll create when you’re back home, pastels in hand, stars shining bright again.
And don’t worry for a second about technology mix-ups — happens to the best of us! I’m just so grateful you’re here, sharing your story and your spirit.
With lots of love and encouragement,
Lynn
This was so ringingly true to my experience. I have some gorgeous gouache gifted to me at Christmas and I am afraid to open them because I hear they can dry out and go mouldy! Thank you for the encouragement to start anywhere with anything. We are all artists whether we are practising or not. 💜
Elaine, I totally get it—sometimes the “fancy” supplies feel almost too precious to touch! But I have a feeling once you crack open that gouache, the fun (and maybe a little mess!) will begin. You’re an artist already—whether the paint is wet, dry, or still in the box! Go play!
Elaine, your gouache may dry out even if you don’t use it. I stepped back from watercolor for a few years. When I returned to it, most of the tubes had dried out. I learned to use it or lose it. That applies to so many things. So, dare to paint incoherent, ugly stuff. And keep on painting, and don’t get too attached to anything you paint. For me, painting is about a learning process and following intuition. I hope you’ll find joy and fulfillment as you explore!
Hi Linda,
I love everything you shared here — such wisdom. “Use it or lose it” really does apply to so many parts of life, not just paint! I especially love your encouragement to paint the incoherent and the ugly and to not get too attached. That’s such a freeing reminder. It’s the showing up, the learning, and the following of intuition that makes the creative journey so rich. Thank you for sharing your beautiful perspective — it’s so inspiring!
Thank you for leaving this note. I really appreciate the encouragement and am taking it on board!
You’re so welcome, Elaine — I’m really glad it landed with you. Sometimes we just need a little nudge or reminder to trust ourselves and keep going. I’m so glad you’re taking it on board… you’ve got this. 💛
Hmmm.. your beautiful new gouache set would be lovely company for my beautiful new gouache set 🤪
Love it! Two beautiful gouache sets and endless possibilities. 🎨💛
This resonated with me too! Something I learned from James Gurney is to store gouache and watercolors in mason jars or ziplock bags - airtight containers to keep them from drying out. In my own experience, sometimes adding water to dried gouache/watercolors brings them back to life :)
Thanks, Dawn! I love that tip from James Gurney—he always has such practical magic. I’ve never thought to use mason jars for storing paint, but now I’m curious. And yes to bringing dried gouache back to life with a little water—such a good metaphor for us too, right? A little care, a little time, and we’re back in motion. 💛
I know your bio says 'for women' but coming across your post must have been meant for me, a guy. I was so good for so long about sketching everyday, and somewhere along the line it went all to hell. So now there's the guilt everyday of I should be sketching, or finishing that painting, or working on my website. Reading your post helped with some ideas, and made me realize that we are also busy. Work, kids, appointments, life. And that it's okay to feel that way.
Hi there,
I’m so glad you found the post — and you are absolutely welcome here, anytime! Creativity doesn’t belong to just one group; it’s something we all wrestle with and are invited into.
I hear you on the guilt — it creeps in so easily when life gets full. But you’re right: work, kids, appointments, life — it all takes energy, and it’s okay to feel stretched. It doesn’t mean you’ve lost your creativity. It’s still there, waiting for you, and it will meet you right where you are, even if it’s in small, imperfect moments.
I’m cheering you on as you find your way back to it — one sketch, one breath, one small step at a time.
I have made a perfect ‘studio’ with all those mostly unopened art supplies , it’s the perfect place to create art equipment on one side sewing machine on the other…..this creator mainly keeps away as much as possible, when I go in I tell the room I’ll be there soon!!
Because of all the things you say …… every time I read your words, I feel a little less annoyed with me, I didn’t know it isn’t just me, this so liberating😉
Penelope, your studio sounds like a little sanctuary just waiting for you—and the fact that you talk to it makes it even more magical. I’m so glad you feel less alone; you’re in good company. Creativity has its own rhythm, and yours is unfolding just as it should.
I need to have a word with my studio. She needs to kick out all of the stuff that doesn’t belong there.
Yes, have the talk with her!
That studio knows better—time to clear the clutter and make space for the magic again.
I’ve had that same conversation (more than once).
She always listens… eventually. 😉🎨💛
Ha ha hopefully Lynn!!!
Haha — yes! And if you ever need a reminder, I’m right here cheering you on. 💛
Thank you… likewise 😊
Same.. now if only had some proper lighting, (I am sure that would help get me going 🥴)
Ha ha….I have daylight lamps, don’t wait 😉
We have a little family art club on zoom every Saturday morning for an hour. We use all the supplies, draw, paint, stick, collage. Some weeks we do ugly art. We try really hard not to compare, just do what you feel. It's so great!
Pauline, that sounds absolutely wonderful! I love everything about your little family art club — the playfulness, the freedom, the joy of just making without comparing. And “ugly art” days? Yes, please! That’s where the magic often begins. What a beautiful way to stay connected and creative. Thank you for sharing this — it made me smile big.
This has been my story for quite a few years. I enjoy watercolor and collage when I will sit down and just do it, but exhaustion gets in the way-and guilt. Too many irons in the fire-a family business, an aged Mom who is in great shape considering her age, a 5 year old granddaughter and a daughter who is in the initial stages of divorce. And a devoted husband who gets the least attention. I do keep art supplies handy and dabble as I can. Thanks for your encouraging post.
Oh Donna, I hear you — that's a full and beautiful (and exhausting) life you're carrying. It’s no wonder art sometimes gets pushed to the edges. I love that you keep your supplies nearby and still find little ways to dabble — that’s not small, that’s sacred.
Even a few minutes of watercolor or collage is a win, especially when your energy is being pulled in so many directions. Be gentle with yourself. You’re showing up in so many important ways — and when you sit down to create, even for a moment, it’s a gift to you and the world. 💛
Having been "interrupted", it is so difficult to return to those glowering art materials. Thank you, it is just what I need to hear and know I won't be the only one!
Deborah, I hear you—those art supplies can feel like they’re giving us the side-eye sometimes! I’m so glad this message reached you at the right time. You’re definitely not alone. Your creativity is still there, patiently waiting for you, no pressure, just ready whenever you are.
Thank you, Lynn, that is something that is very reassuring to hear.
You're so welcome. 💛 I'm really glad it brought you some reassurance — you’re not alone in this!
Leave the supplies out where you can see them and smile at them. This makes me very happy.
Yes! That made me smile too. Just having the supplies out feels like a low-key way to say, “I’m still in the game.” No pressure, just quiet readiness. Love it.
Pigma Micron drawing pens. Windsor and Newton watercolors. Brause left-handed calligraphy nibs. Dick Blick Studio Colored Pencils.
I have a beautiful, flowery box with a pink bow full of supplies.
Yes. I pulled out the sketchbook this past weekend. That’s a start, right?
Andrea, that absolutely is a start — and a beautiful one at that! Just opening the sketchbook, even once, sends a little signal to your creative self: “I’m here.” And that box of supplies sounds dreamy — like a treasure chest full of possibilities. Sometimes the simple act of beginning again, even in the tiniest way, is what opens the door. I’m cheering you on — keep going, one page at a time.
I love this post, Lynn. I have my own private art store in my basement. In an insightful and caring way, you've laid out the inner dynamics of acquiring art supplies.
I've been learning how to paint with acrylics, taking online instruction for the past year with an extraordinary teacher. I paint in my sketchbook regularly now.
As I'm painting more, I'm buying less. The fulfillment is now in the actual making.
Linda, I love hearing this — your “private art store” made me smile! It sounds like you’ve found such a beautiful rhythm with your painting practice. I especially love what you said: the fulfillment is now in the actual making. That’s the shift, isn’t it? From gathering to creating, from longing to doing. What a gift to have found a teacher who inspires that kind of growth. Thank you for sharing this — it’s so encouraging and deeply grounding.
Great post!! I bought some M. Harding oil paints which for me seemed like a splurge and I’m absolutely intimidated by them!
Thank you, Kimberly! And oh, I get it — those M. Harding paints are gorgeous and definitely feel like a splurge! It’s totally normal to feel a little intimidated at first. Just remember, they’re there to serve your creativity, not to scare you. You already have everything you need — now it’s just about letting yourself play and seeing where it leads. 💛
I can relate. I have precious pressure whenever i use expensive paper. I get too nervous to draw properly. But once i switch to a small sketchbook i made from cheap yet good-quality paper, i find myself drawing better and more freely.
Hi Bree,
I can completely relate to that! There’s something about “precious” materials that can make creativity feel so heavy and high-stakes. I love that you found a way to outsmart that pressure with your homemade sketchbook — that’s brilliant. Sometimes giving ourselves permission to play freely is all it takes to bring the joy (and the better drawings) back. Thank you for sharing this — such a great reminder!
I could pin this to the bathroom mirror..as a daily reminder! You are so inspirational, Lynn!! As much as gelli printing has got my attention, I'm stopping at getting yet more art supplies. I am still dragging around a set of oil paints I got as a teen (50+ years later) and used a couple of times then, but some still tubes seem ok. As I watch online oil painting demos I hope to get them out and just see how useful they are (or finally dispose of them.)
Hi Janice,
I love this so much — and I’m honored you’d even think about pinning my words to your mirror! That means more than you know.
And wow, what a beautiful story about your oil paints — they’ve been patient companions all these years, just waiting for you. I think there’s something really special about circling back to them now, with all the wisdom and experience you’ve gained. Whether you revive them or lovingly let them go, it’s all part of your creative journey. Either way, you’re honoring your creative spirit — and that’s what matters most.
Cheering you on, always!
Lynn
I just rediscovered coloured pencils and I’m loving them
Isn’t it the best feeling to fall back in love with something familiar? Colored pencils have such a quiet kind of magic — so easy to pick up, no pressure, just pure joy. I’m so glad you’re enjoying them again. Here’s to letting simple tools lead us back to ourselves. 💛
The 'for women' was tongue in cheek. I'm glad I found your post, and thanks for the encouraging words. Maybe time for a post-it with some of your words.
Ah, got it! 😊 I’m really glad you found the post too — and if any of my words make it onto a post-it, I’m truly honored. Sometimes that little square of encouragement is all it takes to get us back in motion. Keep going — your creativity is still right there, waiting for you. 💛
Lynn! I feel like you are in my head reading my artsy thoughts.
Peggy! That might be the best compliment ever. 😊 I promise I’m not psychic—just a fellow artist who’s been there, too. I’m so glad the words are landing right where you need them. Keep going, you’re not alone. 💛