Light in the Closet

Early on in my life I noticed that if it was too long between making something, or drawing, or doing some kind of creative activity, I’d begin to notice a vague unease. It was a something-is-missing kind of feeling. Even beginning a project would bring an almost instant relief.

It was definitely good to be creating. Drawing was often my choice. It’s like a meditation for me. I can easily work a long time on one image because I enjoy drawing and shading –  maybe more than having a finished piece. Once a drawing  was completed, it usually went in the top of the closet! There are five or six mandalas in there.  It seems like a person could do something better than that with them, doesn’t it? I enjoyed making them so much, perhaps someone else will enjoy them too. I’ve decided to bring some of my colored pencil mandalas out into the light of day. I’ve begun to scan them into the computer, and will offer prints of them my shops at 1000 Markets and Etsy.

The first mandala is titled, As Above So Below. The original is 16 inches square. I loved drawing all the little trees. We were traveling that year so you’ll see some exotic trees (for Illinois). Each and every tree is drawn from a tree that I actually saw in person. Many of the trees are from the neighborhood we live in.  The idea for this one came to me as a picture in my mind’s eye, sort of like a daydream. The main theme of this image is that everything is connected.

Now that I’m bringing them out, I’m kind of excited to share some of my artwork. Have you been hiding your light in the closet too — or under the bed, or in the garage…? It’s more fun to let your light shine.