On Inspiration and work.

{Chuck Close self portrait 1967-68}

Did I mention that I graduated? I can't quite remember, but this has been a crazy past few months, so if I have, forgive me. Anyway, that is to say that with graduation now come and gone, I am now free of homework. Free-eeee!!! Except, now that I am out in the real world, I have had a definite drop off in productivity and seemingly creativity. Ugh. With all this new found freedom, I am finding that it is harder to create and I just get distracted so easily. I feel like my inspiration has run dry and can't seem to get started on anything. free. Humph.... 

I recently read a wonderful quote by Chuck Close, over on this blog : "Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work." Wow, that is what I need to remember, and actually do. I would recommend following the link to that blog and watching the video about Chuck Close's advice to his younger self. Truly inspiring. So, I've started slowly getting into it. Here are some small cards I painted.

Slowly getting back into it! But seriously, I just need to show up and get to work.

Just looking at The Locals

{via}

I'm nosy. I love to see inside people's homes to see how they actually live and decorate. Doesn't everyone on the internet? Or at least people interested in interiors. Since peeking into windows is kind of creepy, sites that showcase people in their actual homes living actual lives are the perfect solution. The internet sure has made this a lot easier to poke around in people's private spaces.

Big Sur

A few weeks ago, Michael and I went to Big Sur for our anniversary. Good food, glorious scenery and peace and quiet. Living in SF is fun, but peaceful? Not so much. At least on a day to day basis. This was a much needed weekend getaway.

We had fun hiking adventures. A tunnel was involved.

All the staring at the ocean had The Little Mermaid soundtrack running through my head. I would totally love to be a mermaid in another (imaginary) life.

Noted. But, we didn't stay back.

Such a beautiful place. I can't wait to go back.

Speaking of Coachella

{via}

Oh, are we all over Coachella already? It did just end on Sunday, but I am talking favorite fashion moments and trends over here today. The above was one of my favorites...

Off to Turkey we go!

A lot has been going on lately. I know, everyone says this, and I am probably not as busy as some people, but still. We all live our own lives, ya know? And fun stuff has been going on! Nothing to complain about.  Like....

We are headed to Turkey! This June, we are going to be flying into Istanbul, then exploring the Agean and Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Not sure if we'll have time for all the things we want to see, since I also want to spend some time on the beach re-laaax-ing. Ahh...

Save an umbrella here for me, please!

Can't wait! Has anyone been before? Travel tips?

Batik Spectacular

If you are in the San Francisco area and can go see Batik: Spectacular Textiles of Java at the Asian Art Museum before it leaves on May 5, 2013, please do. It really is spectacular. My iphone photos, do not do them justice. 

They have a video detailing the process of making these which is fascinating. I don't think I would have the patience to be a batik artist.  Most of these were hand drawn with hot wax. 

The vibrancy and colors can't really be captured, but were stunning in person. Really amazing craftsmanship and shows such a dedication to their art. I would love to go to Java and see these artists in person.

Happy Sunday, Folks!

{from this book.}

This photo makes me inordinately happy. So does the weekend! I will be sleeping in, eating bacon and eggs and hopefully relaxing and having some fun. And maybe a nap. All worthy weekend pursuits... Enjoy!