We were asked to create unique letter forms for week twenty-three in our fifty week calligraphy challenge. I must admit I had a very hard time finding something to inspire my creativity. All my ideas were the same old, same old, nothing unique popped into my head. So I waited instead of forcing an idea. I had to get my annual eye exam and snapped a photo of the tools they use, and bingo! I had an idea. The letters are inspired by the knobs on the equipment…kind of fun!
SO… what lesson do I take away from this? When new ideas are needed, roughing it out and forcing things is not always the best way to go. You might get good ideas, GREAT ideas take time and patience. It can be tough to be anywhere and someone says, “Hey, give me your best idea about…” Now you’re on the spot, pressured and what idea comes next may not always be your best idea. It takes guts to ask for time to think and create instead of feeling like an idea vending machine.
That is also a lesson for people needing new ideas. Give people the prompt, let it percolate with time and you may just be amazed at what being patience will bring to the table. So next time you are asked – or are asking – for new ideas, give people time, give yourself time and let the inspiration come your way.
Ann Art Gallery Blog 