collaboration.
Where It All Starts
Your heart? Your mind?
I’m not sure if it matters.
Separately they each have their own to-do list to manage. Their own unique roles to play. What I do know is that one without the other is lopsided. Limiting.
My heart can build castles in the sky all day long. Get lost in reverie. Dream. Hope. Yearn.
My mind manages all the details of life. Acquires new skills. Has a proclivity for genius even. (Or not)
But do not underestimate the collaboration of heart and mind for that is where the magic begins. Companions woven together they give fresh perspective. Fused they integrate and enrich our lives.
Yesterday I painted and created a video that lacked heart. I painted myself into a corner creating a bland portrait that lacked interest. I played it safe far from my original vision. You might not notice but you can watch it here if you want to check it out.
Today I used the exact same art supplies and basic sketch in the art video below. I allowed my mind to orchestrate the details and let my heart use her intuition. Despite creating on camera I felt a freedom and connection that I hadn’t the previous day. My efforts seemed less contrived and more open. I am glad I started over.
It’s important to honor the struggle. As much as I hate it I know it is the way forward.
I hope this inspires you to collaborate with your heart and mind in your creative endeavors. I don’t think it really matters where you start.
“The question you wrestle with as an artist is: Will you express yourself on your canvas and create meaning or will you fall back into safe patterns and stay on the surface.”