Trying New Media

What’s the worst thing that can happen?

I love to try new mediums of art. It’s a blast to discover new ways of making something beautiful, while having fun doing it. Let me just emphasize the fun part! It’s about having fun, not what the results will be. When something turns out nice, all the better.

It has taken me years to get here. I used to be afraid of failing, but what’s the worst thing that can happen? I lose the money I spent on supplies, I make a mess, and/or (God forbid) I get judged. I can handle that. It’s worth trying.

I had to work through making mistakes and to do that I had to try a new medium. I didn’t plan it, it just happened.

I used to draw animals with pastels and pastel pencils. That’s it. Nothing else. It was my go-to because I knew I was good at it. I was afraid to try anything else. And, I only drew about twice every five-years. It wasn’t that fulfilling. Then, I was asked to teach a class that required me to make handmade books.

I was making books as examples before the course began and one day, I made a mistake. I was far into this piece when I dripped glue on the front cover. I almost cried. I walked away in shock and frustration. When I came back to the piece, I asked my self what I could do to save it. I got an idea and the cover turned out better than I had originally planned.

That was it, I embraced my mistake and worked it out.

I found freedom. I found fun!

Jana ♥