The end of the year is fast approaching, and in the midst of the holiday rush, it is important for us to slow down and reflect on all that 2008 has brought our way, good and bad. Reflect on how far you’ve come, honor where you currently are and make goals/resolutions for 2009. With the endless to-do lists many of us have each holiday season, it is equally important to give to yourself as well as giving to others.
A creative and artistic way of taking on this task is through a process called art visioning. This is the perfect way to awaken the inner artist and play with creativity. A vision board is a great way to help remind you of your goals and aspirations in 2009. If you are business savvy, consider drawing out a right-brained business plan for either your current business/work, or for that artsy side business you hope to have one day. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by creating a year-in-review scrapbook page, perhaps on Scrapblog.com. Collage value cards to remind yourself of where you stand on certain issues.
Remember, there is no wrong or right way to do this. The best way to approach art visioning is through streams of consciousness. This project can be eco-friendly and inexpensive as well. Cut out pictures and words from old magazines and advertisements. Use the back of an unwanted poster board, cut up a gift box or finish out those 4x6 note cards you bought for this semester. Embrace the concept of mixed media: paint, draw, collage and sculpt. Glue inspirational quotes and doodle in your journal. Set aside time each week to take on a particular project, or if you are really low on time, 1-2 hours on your day off.
May the creative process inspire you to dream big in 2009! In these tough economic times, it is important to focus on the positive, be thankful for all that we have and insert a dose of creativity into our everyday living.
Happy Art Visioning!