Monkey Mind

I first heard the term 'monkey mind' in yoga class and could relate right away. This Buddhist expression is an apt description and humorous visual of a racing mind. I’d guess most people are afflicted with this syndrome at one time or another. Some people probably experience it more often than others.

Here are some new (to me) texture stamps I made at a friend's clay studio while I was away from my own.

After a month away from my studio, my chattering creative mind is in full swing. It’s exhilarating and paralyzing at the same time. So many ideas swirl in my head, it’s hard to know just where to start. What I’ve learned from past manic creative episodes is to just get in the studio and begin. The ideas will settle and begin to organize themselves as I get back to the routine of clay. Writing a reference list of new ideas is helpful as well!

Stepping away from routine can be hard and rewarding. For me, new environments give time and space to think of alternate creative expressions.

Monkey mind can be tamed and made useful. Yoga’s practice-ending savasana is a fantastic reminder that letting go of racing thoughts is restorative. I think mindfully practicing meditation provides similar results. My daily knitting habit is one of the ways I conquer my own monkey mind. It is meditative and active at the same time. Do you have an activity you use to help you settle those racing thoughts and 'to do lists'?

Here's the project on my knitting needles right now. I'm trying to use up some of my left-over yarn, so this interesting shawl project is perfect! The jumble of colors (monkey mind) will result in a useful expression of creativity (meditation)!

Balancing Act

Searching for balance is a constant both in and between my life and art. There are times where clay is predominant in my daily routine leaving little time for other enjoyments. I tend to lose track of time when I’m in the studio as the creative juices are flowing and I’m focused on the task at hand. It can be kind of addicting; it's easy to spend so much time in the studio that it minimizes time for friends, family and other fun activities. I've found time spent away from the studio is beneficial and contributes to success when I'm creating. 

My angel-inspired clock is a new direction for me. I like the contrast of the glazed and unglazed surface areas!

The intensive cycle of clay-making can be unforgiving and contribute to the abundant time necessary for successful completion of a piece. As a material, clay has its limitations and balance requirements. Too wet, and the clay will not hold a form. Too dry, the clay will crack when bent into shape. Additionally, there are numerous stages throughout the journey to completion that require good timing. Learning to dodge these stumbling blocks is part of creating a successful final product. It’s another balancing act to achieve.

This series of bowls was designed and created exclusively for Yarn On The House (YOTH) to hold  knitting accessories and incense. It was a fun collaboration. I love the simplicity of the decoration. Contact Veronika for sales details!

Finding aesthetic balance is another ongoing challenge I face in the studio. Imagining the final piece guides me through the creation process. I’ve learned to trust my own artistic eye. This translates into an authentic outcome that says, “I’ve been created by Laura.”

Sunrise on Hilton Head is filled with natural beauty. It's surely one of the things my family misses about living here. Luckily, we can all come and revisit the activities and friends we knew here and regain some of that special balance we need in our lives. 

Routine

Now that the vacation is over, the days are getting shorter and the weather is cooling, it is time to get back to a regular schedule in the studio. I like having a familiar routine and specific goals to fill my day. Fall always reminds me of the beginning of a school year and the fresh start and excitement associated with new supplies, teachers and schedules. It is a great time to re-commit to resolutions made back in January. I haven’t touched clay in weeks so I’m looking forward to my daily studio time this coming week! 

One last morning on Hilton Head. Just another day in paradise!

I did manage to get a little bit of work completed while I was away from the studio. New post cards and sales tags are printed.

Island Time

When we lived in Hilton Head, SC, Island time was a way of life I learned to embrace. I have been reminded of that during our visit here. My fast-paced, deadline-oriented attitude gave way to a “stop and smell the roses, things will eventually get done” perspective. I think a combination of both approaches to handling life is probably the healthiest lifestyle for me and my approach to my art. I need a deadline or roadmap to tackle my work. It’s too easy to fall in the trap of spinning my wheels (no pun intended), so planning is essential. But for the creativity to have room to blossom, I also need that laissez faire element to be present. It’s a balance, like everything in life. 

Hilton Head invites its visitors, natives and transplants to slow down and enjoy every moment.

While away from the studio, I've been working on a new sweater. Take note of the pine straw ground cover. It's one of unique things I love about Hilton Head!