Friday, January 08, 2010




It has been awhile I know. I guess I have been doing alot of thinking about art. And getting quiet to realize what it is that I am passionate about and want to share. For me color is a driving element, followed closely by texture, form and pattern. I think with my training as a textile designer these things will always be with me. I started thinking about my wreaths and I what I love about them. Again, color plus the different textures and materials.

I tend to get caught up with what "everyone" else is doing. About whatever the "trend" may be. I tend to be very curious about artists who sell alot of art. I have realized that it is o.k. to be curious and try and learn a thing or two from established artists but it should end there. I really am so inspired by all of the beauty that is created. However, I don't want to try and analyze what drives and inspires them. I just need to know what drives and inspires me and go from there. When I see established artists work in a certain style and subject I sometimes wonder if they ever get bored with doing that particular thing. I think I worry that I could become bored with doing the same style work. Like does someone who creates bird art and is known for this ever just want to go and paint portraits? I guess there is no one saying you can't do this. Or maybe it is just me and I am just thinking too much. Which I have a tendency to do.

I did open a shop for my art. There is nothing in there at the moment but I will let you know when there is. It may be awhile.

I did want to mention micromovements. SARK talks about this in her books. Small movements that lead to big actions. Here is a short article on this simple but powerful tool. What is a micromovement?



8 comments:

Kate England | Marmalade Moon said...

I can relate to so much of what you write about here. I don't think I could work in one narrow niche for the rest of my life. Sometimes I worry that I don't commit to anything because of that! Then I try to think about artists like Picasso, who went through several very different phases, and didn't limit themselves to one style.

About inspiration, I personally try to shift between going out in the world to look at and take in what other people create and then I turn off other people's work while I create. The internet makes this tricky! :D There is so much beautiful art work out there, at the click of one's mouse! Sometimes I forget to gather inspiration in the "real world", in museums, on walks... the internet so easily grabs a hold of me. So for me, the trick is to turn all this off while I create. I have to create an open space, a clear canvas, to hear the silence, and create, fill it up.

Best of luck with your micromovements!

Deneme said...

I like the article you mention, I think we are already familiar with what micromovement is about. But it's still nice to keep it in mind in times of stress. Thanks.

Dana Barbieri said...

Hi Deneme. Yes, I am sure most know what micromo
vements are but I feel they are powerful when you feel overwhelmed and instead of doing nothing you can do something. Thanks for commenting. :)

Dana Barbieri said...

Hi Kate. I feel like we are on the same page again. :)

jacqueline said...

This is so inspiring. I could related you the things you are talking abt here on this post. I love colors and i am always inspire by the beautiful colors you use on your painting! I think its really cool that we dont limit ourselves to just one style...it's always good to try a few and experiment along the way. That is such a cool article and thank you so much for sharing. Yipee and hooray on opening up a shop for your art. Looking forward to it. :) Thank you so much for your wonderful birthday wishes...it made my day. Hope you are having a wonderful weekend and love to you!

Concetta said...

Hey Dana. Last year I got a bit stuck by spending so much time looking at others mosaic art that I nearly lost my own spark and uniqueness. What you say is a good reminder to be the best of me as no one else can do that - the fishbowl was a good reminder. Well done for spending so much time working on what you enjoy. x

Wini said...

Hi Dana, thank you for bringing up such interesting topics! I also love colour, texture, form and pattern. I am also really inspired by the beauty out there, although sometimes it makes me feel inadequate. I still feel hesitant to post my own work on the internet. I get bored very quickly and never stick to anything for long. I think its fine to explore different subject matter, genres and art media. I also admire those who persevere and become really good in their chosen genre. Good luck with your shop! I like the concept of micromovement, it sounds very useful! :)

Regina said...

I love Sark.

I get wrapped up in that same conversation with myself. Wondering how other artists do it. If they ever feel stuck on the same subject or board. I think to much too, i think..