Why We Should Do What We Love

...although that isn't always possible in every case, right?  we sometimes don't have a choice to do what we love. 

But.

When it is possible, turning toward what we love really helps.  This tile, which I think is "ok" but certainly not a favorite, reminded me that it's all right to skip classes when I can see that the finished product doesn't particularly appeal to me.  This one didn't, because it's so busy.  But I did it anyway, because it's part of the multi-class package from last spring's Artifex Eruditio, a brilliant philanthropic educational experience run by some hugely talented CZTs in Singapore.  There must be about twenty classes to choose from.  All of them included in the package.

With that number of classes, it's guaranteed I won't be interested in every one.  I've skipped a few already that held minimal interest, but I felt I "should" do this one.  So I did.

What's great about having done it:  it's been weeks since I have drawn anything.  I've been busy with a very large punch needle embroidery project (see the last post) and still have far to go.  So I've put off all drawing.  But today I drew for two hours and enjoyed every moment, even if I'm not particularly attracted to the result.

Which reminds me:  Anything worth doing is worth practicing (I'm preaching to myself here).  That is true with any skill.  I am out of practice with drawing and need to begin again.  It's also true with meditation, which fortunately I have been practicing daily--and every meditation is itself a practice of beginning again in every moment.

Two of the big joys in my artistic life are:  Drawing and textiles.  Oddly, I have trouble doing projects in both media at the same time.  It seems I'm "all in" for one but need to postpone the other.  I am enjoying every stitch in my current embroidery, but wow, am I missing drawing.  And I see the results of being out of practice. 

Although I'm not sure how to resolve this dilemma, I am so very happy I spent time drawing today.

Practice doesn't make perfect. Practice reduces the imperfection.
--Toba Beta

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