I generally prefer audio books as a background in my studio. I have listened to hundreds of art histories, biographies, mysteries and true crime stories, plowing through series after series. I have always needed a bit of escapism to occupy my inner critic as I work, but lately I prefer silence. At the beginning of quarantine when life became strange and frightening, I turned once again to meditation (and Ben & Jerry). I had exactly zero success with meditation up to this point, but during the repetitive circumstances of lockdown, I began a modest practice that began to help with my anxiety and focus. A funny thing has happened after months of meditation. It has crept into my studio! When I am working, I often prefer silence. I am happily conscious of being in the moment and I don’t need to drown out that voice, in fact, I think I may have made friends with my inner critic. Well, more like a friendly acquaintance I chat with, and sometimes tell very nicely to shut up.
Meditation is a process that’s not everyone’s cup of tea. But you could try switching up your painting soundtrack or turning it off all together. Maybe In the quiet you can have a nice polite chat with your inner critic too.
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Over the years I have collected many art practice tips. When I feel tight and off track I use this list to loosen up my painting.
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