Keep Going

By lucindahowe | Published July 21, 2020
Palmetto Series #7

Palmetto Series #7
7×5 inches
acrylic monotype on cradled panel
©2020 Lucinda Howe

“The world is crazy. Creative work is hard. How do you keep going?” – Austin Kleon


I’m considering this question as I work in my studio these days. I’m reading Austin Kleon’s book Keep Going. He suggests 10 ways to stay creative, focused, and true to yourself in a world that seems dumber and meaner every day. Although the book was published in 2019, it seems even more relevant in light of a global pandemic.

https://austinkleon.com

Staying at home will be my way of life for the near future. At this point I don’t know what opportunities to show my work there will be in the future. In the meantime, I’m taking one day as a time and focusing on making new work. As Kleon says, I believe that “Art is supposed to make our lives better.”

Right now, I’m focusing on #3 Forget the Noun, Do the Verb. My verbs are “finishing” and “reworking”.

Finishing:
I have finished a collection of 12 monotypes on panel. I planned, printed, mounted, varnished, documented, and wired the work for hanging.

Palmetto Series by Lucinda Howe

Reworking:
I’ve collected several canvases and panels to finish or rework. One of the best things about acrylic paints and collage is that adding more layers changes the look and adds texture.

Panels and canvases to be reworked or finished or painted over. Who knows what might become of them?!

I hope you are focusing on your creative work to make your life better. What suggestions do you have to keep going in your creative life?

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8 Comments

  1. Harriette July 21, 2020 at 11:23 am #

    I love the closeups of the palmettos, they seem to be exploding on the canvas.

    Reply
    • lucindahowe July 21, 2020 at 4:05 pm #

      Thanks, Harriette! There is a lot of movement in the shape of the fronds, isn’t there?

      Reply
  2. Melinda July 21, 2020 at 12:11 pm #

    This is perhaps the most relevant post I have read recently. Thank you.
    The world does seem more crazy than usual. It is important to tune out,
    and turn inward.

    Reply
    • lucindahowe July 21, 2020 at 4:07 pm #

      Thanks for reading and commenting, Melinda. It’s good that we can encourage each other.

      Reply
  3. Donna July 21, 2020 at 1:02 pm #

    I have enjoyed watching and reading the progress and process of this project.
    Thank you for sharing it with us and inspiring me to continue with my own work.

    Reply
    • lucindahowe July 21, 2020 at 4:09 pm #

      Thanks, Donna. You’re inspiring me, too!

      Reply
  4. Donna July 21, 2020 at 2:36 pm #

    Cindy, as always enjoy your blog. Have ordered the book, too. I have a number of motivating books including Kleon’s Steal Like an Artist. Love his humorous yet succinct take on creativity.

    Reply
    • lucindahowe July 21, 2020 at 4:11 pm #

      I like his other books, too. Hope you enjoy Keep Going.

      Reply

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