Walk in the Woods

Early May.
While missing the South, and yearning for the sea,
I decide that a walk in the woods is my northern equivalent.
(At least as far as inspiration goes.)
But not just any walk in the woods. The deep dark woods within our land.

Four years ago, I began a series of workshops entitled 'Art and the Creative Spirit'.
These centred around a contemplative walk in the woods.
A walk made in silence.
A time for listening, watching, sensing.

We gather, photograph, remember.
Back at the studio, we begin.
It is quite lovely to see such renewed vigour for art-making after an hour in the woods.
Materials are at hand.
Paints, pencils, pens, chalks, boards, paper, mixed-media supplies, found objects.
Spiritual reading, meditative music.
Some solo time for gathering thoughts.
Inhibitions vanish.
And the creation begins.


These woods refresh. 
Not paved or safe or planned. 
But uneven underfoot. 
Creature sounds. Tangled branches scratch. Insects ever-present.
Bird song.
"I am alive", they sing.










Walk in the woods.
(Good advice.)
And for four years, my mantra.

Central to my art. My creative spirit.

A step.
Not just into the woods. Into living the Creative Spirit.
Thinking of my work and art as a way of living.

That, but also,
A way to communicate ideas through art.
A way of connecting.
A way of giving (rather than taking, getting, accumulating).
A way of seeking (solitude, quiet, peace).
A way of simplifying (focusing, clarifying).

Making a way to develop an art practice.

Beginning with a walk in the woods.