Decide and Do

“Creativity begins the moment you decide to work with what’s in front of you.”

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 It’s easy to believe we need more—more time, more space, more supplies—before we can truly create. But again and again on the Made to Make podcast, I’ve seen the opposite prove true.

Heidi Hooper turned to dryer lint as an art medium when health challenges made traditional materials impossible to use.

Singer-Songwriter Jason Shepherd carried a harmonica with him while deployed, making music wherever he could, despite the limitations of his environment.

And in my own life, with limited storage, space, and time, I’ve found myself painting over older work, letting go, reimagining, and creating something new from what already exists.

The common thread isn’t what any of us lacked—it’s what we chose to use. Creativity doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. It shows up the moment we decide to begin, right here, with what’s in our hands.

These tulip paintings are painted over earlier pieces that just weren’t working.  I love that the history still shows through. The underlying texture adds a layer of interest I couldn’t have planned. I’ll finish them with a palette knife to give everything a more intentional, cohesive feel. So far, I’m really happy with where they’re headed.

The portrait tucked in the back is of my grandmother. I started her full of energy and emotion, but I’m not feeling connected to her right now. (Sorry, Grandmother!) I’ve learned to trust that pause, and I’ll come back to her when the inspiration returns.

Having several works in progress keeps me moving forward, but there’s a balance to strike. Too many unfinished pieces can shift my experience from energizing to overwhelming.

By the way, since we downsized, most of my artwork is done in a 4′ x 4′ space. Proof that you don’t need a huge space to paint larger formats.

Ya just need to decide and do.