The life of an artist is always changing, evolving - even mutating. I think if an artist stops changing, their art will stop evolving and eventually become stale and irrelevant. And this is the hard part; how does one continue to find new ways to express their creativity?

After spending a year working on my artwork in a studio for one, I began to miss the creative outlet of school, art peers and collaboration with other artists. I missed working with fellow artists and interacting with people. It was time to get back into the "scene" and reach out to the art community. After moving to Vancouver in September of 2011 I have found myself working at a gallery on Granville Island that carries the work of over 100 local artist/artisans/crafters. It is so inspiring to see all the different ways artists can express their creativity and the skill level of well trained craftspeople. This change has given me the inspiration to get back in the studio and start creating - whatever it may be!

Finding new ways to tap into ones creativity isn't hard - but it does take time and patience, a little experimentation and realizing that it's OK to make mistakes. Some of my favorite beads and paintings have come from making mistakes and finding out new techniques this way! In 2012 I plan to expand my creativity by:

• Spending time in the studio without a plan, just time to experiment and try new things.
• Talking/Collaborating with other artists. Sharing ideas is the most important thing an artist can do.
• Taking time to see and do new things, whether it be a walk in the park or a new coffee shop - experiencing new things feeds the creative soul.

I hope this can inspire you to take the time to tap into your creative side. Whether you consider yourself an artist or not - we all have a creative spark. Find what feeds yours and rememer to Follow Your Bliss.

Xo

Addison