SELF

As I reflected on 2014, I decided it was a far too busy year for me, 

so therefore I am trying to make some changes so as not to have it repeated.  

2015 will be busy - I am always busy - I just don't want too busy.

I don't usually choose a word to focus on for the year, 

but for now I have chosen the word SELF.

I hope that it will help me focus on what I do want to do,

and where I am not willing to put my energy. 

I may only use SELF for a month or two, or then again I could use it for many years.

One of the things I decided that I did want to do  was to spend some time drawing. 

It was about 8 - 9 years ago that I decided that I wanted to learn to draw, 

and began spending time drawing.

To continue on with this goal,

I am taking an online course -  Sketchbookery by Mary Ann Moss

I am trying to learn to draw everyday items from around my house - and then add a bit of paint

Last year I was very focused on final outcome of creations

This year I hope there are some creations that are final outcome focused,

 but my plan is to spend more time practicing, learning and not worrying about the final product. 

So here are some of the drawings/paintings I have made this week. 

I am drawing in pen (no erasing)

and began on scrap pieces of paper - so it doesn't matter if they turn out or not. 

I want to learn to draw from real things rather than from images.

So I started with my tiny tea pot.

After I drew my wonky jug on scrap paper, I added some watercolours

but that paper doesn't hold up too well, so tried again on heavier paper.

I was just going to draw my little pine needle basket - but the paints were right there 

so they got added to the mix.

And after I painted these, they were delicious to eat!

I found the perspective on this little succulent difficult,

and I know I will have to try it again another day.

I drew these tulips on scrap paper early in the week, when they were fresh.
The painted tulip was from yesterday when it was ready to drop its petals. 

I am challenging myself to draw (and paint if I want) for a minimum of 15 minutes each day. 

Some days it may not happen - and that is okay.