Sketching at Sunrise
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I always start the day creatively. First light is a potent time. After emerging from dreams, my imagination and senses are vibrant so these early moments provide a treasured opportunity to capture and consider ideas.
My attention is often drawn to the gentle play of light and shadow, particularly in the ever changing landscape of the room. It is here, in the folds of sheets and curtain fabric and on the walls, where pictures take shape, forming mysterious figures, landscapes, and objects.
This ability to see beyond what is there is called pareidolia. Examples include being able to see faces in tree bark or dragons in clouds or winged beings in rays of sunlight. My recent article in Breathe magazine (‘Seeing is believing’ issue 53) explains this ability to see patterns in random data.
Within these forms, I see many possibilities. If I’m not already immersed in reading or writing, I will quickly sketch some of the images that I see. These are very rough markings, using whatever pen I have to hand. Here are some examples:
Out of these sketches, ideas and words flow. They form channels, which often feed into stories and other creative projects.
Whatever your creative discipline, I can highly recommend making space at sunrise to sketch. Let the light in and see what images and ideas appear. Gift yourself time to contemplate. It will put you in the mood for an inspired and creative day. ♡
Carol Anne Strange - carolannestrange.com
How do you start your day? We would love to know. Leave a comment on this post.
Sketching at Sunrise
Beautiful, Carol. I get up very early and always start my day with a meditation and some freewriting in my journal. It's such a magical time, in so many ways. But sketching—you have inspired me! I'm always interested in sharing some thoughts with you and other creatives for In the Spotlight. So happy to be reading your words again and I'll have to go and pick up a copy of Breathe.💖
Inspiring post Carol. Early morning time, I agree, is a very good time to work. I'm trying to get back to some drawing/ sketching/ writing myself. I've worked digitally for so long, and usually busy that it's hard to turn to being creative at other times. So many distractions,
I like how you are drawing with ball point pen.
I think we get too hung up about precious art materials/ and beautiful sketchbooks sometimes for fear of making a mark. I know I do...
Best wishes