I’m a big believer in sharing anything that feels helpful these days, so today I’ve got a few things for ya (make sure to watch the video below).
First… MUSIC! This is a link to my most played songs of 2020 on Spotify. (You’ll need to have an account to listen, but it’s free to sign up.) I hope you enjoy it.
Next, a creative lesson that’s been helping me navigate these times…
Banks of the River (aka Restrictions) = Going Deeper With Less
When I teach painting, I often talk about intentionally creating what I call “banks of the river” as a way to simplify the usual sea of creative options in order to access more freedom and depth within my chosen restrictions. For example, I might decide to only work with a certain color or specific shape with the hope of moving a painting forward.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about how COVID has forced some pretty steep river banks upon all of us – like it or not. As you know, what’s possible has radically shifted. So instead of always focusing on what’s gone, I’ve been trying to ask myself: What’s left? What’s still possible? What’s available NOW that wasn’t available before? And how can deepen my experience with what I still have access to?
Seeing life through this lens is not about sugarcoating the enormous suffering of this time. It’s actually just about getting through the day. And if I’ve learned anything from my years of intuitive painting, it’s that my ability to improvise, “work with what’s working,” and look for the gems in the chaos is exactly what creates the beauty, depth, and meaning in the end.
I trust this is true now more than ever.
Before I sign off, I have a really special announcement to share with you in the video below. I’ve been working on this project for TWO YEARS, and today’s the day I finally get to let you in on it.
Hint: If you’ve ever wanted to take one of my painting retreats but haven’t been able to attend one in person, you’ll definitely want to check this out.
Hear more in the video below… Love ya, xo flora
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