As I write this, I'm currently dealing with COVID-19. The prospect of sitting and watching TV for hours doesn't appeal to me, but my usual art schedule is a bit too much to handle right now. Instead, I'm turning to open-ended abstract art in my sketchbooks to keep my creative spirit alive while allowing myself the rest I need.
Embracing Open-Ended Art
Open-ended art is all about the process, not the final product. It's a wonderful way to enjoy creating without the pressure of making something perfect. When you're feeling under the weather, this approach can be particularly comforting. I use two sketchbooks at a time so that when one is drying, I can work in the other. This keeps the momentum going and allows me to immerse myself in the joy of creation.
My Chosen Supplies
You can use any supplies you want, but here’s what I’m currently using:
Gouache: Its creamy consistency and vibrant colors are perfect for layering and creating rich textures.
Water-Soluble Crayons and Pastels: These allow for smooth, blendable colors that can be activated with water, adding a fluidity to the artwork.
Watercolor Pencils: Great for fine details and layering, they offer precision and the ability to blend with water.
Scrap Paper for Collage: Adding different textures and patterns through collage brings a unique element to the work.
The key is to choose sketchbooks designed for mixed media or watercolor so they can hold up to the layers of water and paint.
The Process
Layering these materials in my sketchbooks is incredibly satisfying. I start with broad strokes of gouache, letting the colors blend and flow into each other. Once that layer dries, I add details with watercolor pencils and water-soluble crayons, enjoying how the colors interact and transform. Collage elements come next, adding texture and dimension. The whole point is to enjoy the process and the colors, letting go of any expectations for the outcome.
Reflections from "The Creative Life Book"
In my collaborative book, The Creative Life Book: Reflections on the Art of Living a Fully Expressed Life, I dedicated a chapter to open-ended art. This approach to artmaking is about embracing the unknown, allowing yourself to be guided by intuition and the sheer joy of creation. It's a reminder that art can be a sanctuary, especially when life feels overwhelming.
Creating art when you're sick can be a healing process. It offers a gentle way to stay connected to your creativity without overexerting yourself. So, if you find yourself under the weather, gather your supplies, open your sketchbook, and let the colors flow. Remember, it's not about the final product—it's about the joy of creating and the comfort it brings.