If you are a long-time supporter of my work you will know that I am inspired by the Fife coastal path, birds, flora, and fauna. But what does it mean to be inspired by nature? For me, it means nature is the “fuel” or the driving force of my creativity. It provides a spark of an idea. The ideas come from colours, textures, patterns, shapes and lines and then I just delve in and explore – I take these elements from nature and see how far I can take them. Hours and hours can disappear just by noticing the patterns on a leaf or how the sunlight on petals can look like vibrant drapery. Inspiration comes from moments of silent observation and exploration and from taking time to “notice”.
Next time you are searching for inspiration, why not just step outside into nature and take time to observe. See how deep you can go in the detail of a simple leaf or petal, or how the light shades and tones bark on a tree. Allow your mind and imagination to play with the shapes. Smell the air around you and listen to the sounds of nature. To notice is to interact with your environment. Then simply carry this with you and spill it or pour it into your chosen medium, whether words, clay, painting or illustrations.
As well as being a rich source of creative inspiration, noticing is a meditation and you may be surprised how calm and centred you feel if you allow yourself to go with the flow.
Until next time busy bees …