#CreativeReflection

[bogdansavchenko]

назва "Чумак" 2018 р. формат 10 см на 10 см папір, туш, перо.

navn "Chumak" 2018 format 10 cm x 10 cm papir, blekk, penn.

Ця моя робота несе в собі чарівність віку, втілюючи народження певного стилю та набору керівних принципів. Вона також слугує повторюваною темою, яку я досліджую час від часу, розвиваючи її нюанси в різних дискусіях. Як я вже згадував раніше, і це однаково стосується і цього випадку, ця робота була продуктом чистої імпровізації.

Тепер давайте заглибимося в принципи, які лежать в її основі. Виконана в скромному масштабі тушшю і пером, керуючись спритністю моєї правої руки, ця робота дотримується фундаментальних рамок. Саме цю основу я використовую в так званому "чистому вигляді", оскільки інструмент вже має власну пластику і логіку використання. Наприклад, перо легко промальовує плавні, динамічні лінії, особливо коли рухається зверху вниз. Ця адаптивність поширюється на створення делікатних крапок і заповнення невеликих площин - природна синергія, яку породжує інструмент.

Чорнило саме по собі привносить характерні риси, в той час як моя натренована рука виконує специфічні рухи. Наприклад, малювання безтурботних і плавних ліній вимагає спокійного стану душі. Таким чином, мазок руки стає сплавом технічної майстерності та емоційного резонансу.

Дозвольте мені зупинитися на кожному з цих аспектів окремо. Вправна рука означає ступінь вашого володіння рукою та інструментом, втілення ваших намірів у витончені рухи. Коли ваша майстерність дозріє, ви побачите, що будь-яка лінія, яку ви проводите, тече гармонійно - результат, досягнутий завдяки цілеспрямованій практиці. Одночасно ваше серце задає ритм руці, що є проявом вашого темпераменту. По суті, лінії, втілені на полотні, відображають ритм вашого серцебиття. Звучить досить просто, але дозволяє залишатися в рамках стилю. І створює внутрішню логіку, іншими словами, формулу творення. Проте не слід плутати стилістичні рамки з творчою в'язницею, вони радше нагадують правила гри, що додають інтриги до процесу. Переходячи від одного твору до іншого, від одного наративу до іншого, я стикаюся з викликами, які спочатку можуть здатися нездоланними у встановлених межах. Однак саме в цих обмеженнях моя творча майстерність по-справжньому сяє. Сфера графічного мистецтва пропонує широкий простір для інновацій та досліджень, запрошуючи мене до експериментів, водночас гарантуючи, що мій задум буде доступним для глядача. Але головне тут - не перестаратися.

З плином часу моя палітра графічних технік продовжує розширюватися, ще більше збагачуючи мій художній репертуар. Привабливість поєднання різних матеріалів в одному творі незаперечна, але це зусилля вимагає підвищеного досвіду та майстерності. Досягнення балансу між експериментами та цілісністю залишається захоплюючим заняттям, яке спонукає мене до постійного вдосконалення мого ремесла.

Роздумуючи над еволюцією цієї роботи, я вважаю доречним відзначити якість композиції. Створена на молодших курсах коледжу, це був час, коли я вчився розуміти суть ритму та просторового балансу. Ця робота є свідченням мого зростаючого розуміння цих художніх елементів.

Ця робота втілює народження стилю та принципів. Вона розповідає про спонтанність та внутрішню гармонію мого руху, передаючи ритм мого серця на полотні. Цей твір — втілення моєї художньої еволюції, викликаючи мене до постійного вдосконалення та відкриття нових можливостей.

This work of mine carries with it the charm of age, embodying the birth of a particular style and a set of guiding principles. It also serves as a recurring theme that I explore from time to time, elaborating on its nuances in various discussions. As previously mentioned, and equally applicable here, this piece was a product of pure improvisation.

Now, let's delve into the principles that underpin it. Executed on a modest scale using ink and pen, guided by the dexterity of my right hand, this work adheres to a fundamental framework.  This is the base and I use it in a so-called "pure form" because the tool already has its own plasticity and logic of use.   For instance, the pen effortlessly traces smooth, dynamic lines, particularly when flowing from top to bottom. This adaptability extends to creating delicate dots and filling in small planes, a natural synergy that the tool engenders.

Ink, in its own right, introduces distinctive traits, while my practiced hand executes a specific motion. Drawing serene and fluid lines, for instance, requires a tranquil state of mind. Hence, the stroke of your hand becomes a fusion of both technical proficiency and emotional resonance.

Let me focus on each of these aspects separately. A skilful hand refers to the degree of control you have over your hand and your instrument, translating your intentions into graceful movements. As your skill matures, you will find that any line you draw flows harmoniously - a result achieved through focused practice. At the same time, your heart sets the rhythm for your hand, which is a manifestation of your temperament. In fact, the lines embodied on the canvas reflect the rhythm of your heartbeat. It sounds quite simple, but it allows us to stay within the style. And it creates an internal logic, in other words, a formula for creation.

Yet, the confines of a stylistic framework should not be mistaken for a creative prison; rather, they resemble the rules of a game, adding intrigue to the process. As I journey from one creation to another, from one narrative to the next, I encounter challenges that may initially seem insurmountable within the established boundaries. However, it is within these constraints that my creative prowess truly shines. The field of graphic arts offers a wide scope for innovation and research, inviting me to experiment while ensuring that my ideas are accessible to the viewer. But the main thing here is not to overdo it.

As time unfolds, my palette of graphic techniques continues to expand, further enriching my artistic repertoire. The allure of blending various materials into a single work is undeniable, but it's an endeavor demanding heightened expertise and skill. Striking the balance between experimentation and cohesion remains an exhilarating pursuit, driving me to continually refine my craft.

Reflecting upon the evolution of this artwork, I find it fitting to commend the composition's quality. Created during my junior years in college, it was a time when I was learning to grasp the essence of rhythm and spatial balance. This piece stands as a testament to my growing understanding of these artistic elements.

This work embodies the birth of style and principles. It tells the story of the spontaneity and inner harmony of my movement, conveying the rhythm of my heart on canvas. This work is the embodiment of my artistic evolution, challenging me to constantly improve and discover new possibilities.

[gravekilla69]

Week 10: Discussing the Seven Weekly Topics as a Whole

Discussing the seven weekly topics as a whole highlighted the multifaceted nature of critical thinking in design. Each topic offered a unique approach, from understanding visual metaphors to the significance of structured research and collaborative work. The Critical Thinking Skills module has impacted my approach as a designer and student representative by enhancing my learning and leadership capabilities. Week 1’s introduction to critical thinking reshaped my analytical process, reinforcing the value of questioning assumptions and approaching issues from multiple perspectives. This has aided my CPJ work, encouraging more thoughtful reflections and better project outcomes!

Week 2’s collaborative skills proved essential for my group projects in Studio, teaching me to communicate effectively and balance different viewpoints. This skill has also been crucial in my role as class representative, enabling me to mediate discussions and foster an inclusive environment. Effective communication is key to building trust within teams (Wheelan).

Week 3’s focus on emotional intelligence taught me to manage stress and understand team dynamics better. This has been particularly helpful in coordinating group efforts and addressing classmates’ concerns. Emotional intelligence also played a key role in maintaining composure during demanding assignments, supporting personal growth and teamwork (Goleman).

Week 5’s growth mindset encouraged me to view challenges as opportunities for improvement. Applying this in Craft Workshop allowed me to experiment without fear of failure, fostering innovation. It also inspired me to encourage peers to take creative risks, boosting morale during group efforts.

Week 9’s digital media documentation reinforced the importance of tracking creative processes. Integrating this into my CPJ led to clearer project presentations, adding value to my role as a student representative, where structured documentation aids communication.

These interconnected topics formed a toolkit that improved my ability to lead and collaborate. Understanding critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and growth mindset made me more empathetic and effective in group settings, supporting my leadership and academic growth. 

Total word count: 330 Words

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Works Cited:

Goleman, Daniel. Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam, 1995.

Wheelan, Susan A. Creating Effective Teams: A Guide for Members and Leaders. SAGE Publications, 2016.

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Aftermath of Obliteration of Eternity, 2009 - Yayoi Kusama

Infinity Mirrored Room – Love Forever, 1966/1994 - Yayoi Kusama

Phalli’s Field, 1965 - Yayoi Kusama

LOVE IS CALLING, 2013 - Yayoi Kusama 

[phonemantra-blog]

Singer-songwriter Charlie Puth is still reeling from the unexpected and heartwarming name-drop he received from pop icon Taylor Swift on her latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department." In the song "The Tortured Poets Department," Swift sings, "We declared Charlie Puth should be a bigger artist," sparking disbelief and a wave of emotions for Puth. Let's delve deeper into Puth's reaction to Swift's lyrics, the impact it's had on his career, and the deeper meaning behind the shout-out. Taylor Swift's From Denial to Tears: Puth's Journey of Disbelief Upon learning about the lyric through a friend, Puth initially dismissed it as a joke or an AI-generated addition. His initial disbelief stemmed from the sheer improbability of such a major artist mentioning him in a song. However, upon listening to the official album release and hearing Swift sing his name, Puth was overwhelmed with emotion. He described his reaction as a mixture of shock and disbelief, ultimately leading to tears. "It Was Surreal": A Reflection on Past and Present Puth's emotional response stemmed not only from the surprise but also from a sense of self-reflection. He acknowledged that he might have made different choices in his career path, but this unexpected acknowledgment from Swift felt like a turning point. He saw it as a sign that his current direction and efforts were heading in the right direction. A Candid Conversation: Puth on Songwriting and Vulnerability The unexpected lyrics also inspired Puth to be more personal and vulnerable in his songwriting. He admitted a tendency to shy away from overly specific lyrics in the pursuit of commercial success. However, Swift's boldness in referencing a personal conversation within a song resonated deeply with Puth, encouraging him to embrace a more honest and potentially less commercially driven approach in his music. A Note of Gratitude: Puth Pens a Message to Swift Despite the initial shock, Puth expressed his immense gratitude to Swift through a handwritten note. He conveyed his appreciation for her encouragement and how it had emboldened him to release his new song, "Hero." Puth credits Swift's validation as the final push he needed to share this more vulnerable and personal work with the world. A New Song and Renewed Courage: The "Hero" Effect The impact of Swift's lyrics extends beyond a simple shout-out. It directly influenced Puth's creative output. He credits Swift's encouragement with the release of "Hero," a song that represents a more raw and personal side of his artistry. Puth emphasizes that Swift's support gave him the courage to step outside his comfort zone and embrace artistic vulnerability. Beyond the Ranks: Defining "Bigger Artist" While Swift's lyric playfully suggests Puth should be a "bigger artist," Puth himself expands on the definition of this term. For him, being a bigger artist isn't just about chart-topping hits or mainstream recognition. He aspires to use his platform to inspire others, particularly aspiring musicians, to pursue their craft with passion and dedication.

[jiya-as-media]

CCR

Critical creative reflection:

Question 1)

How do your products use or challenge conventions and how do they represent social groups or issues?

[mariafoonk]

"My Favorite Scene"

Looking back on my graduation from art school and my entry into university, I realize that my favorite genre in painting has always been and still is landscape, especially mountainous landscapes. This love was instilled in me by my sister Nanab, who took me on hikes in Altai. Those were truly wonderful times! The beauty of nature is beyond words, and as I reflect on those moments, I regret not keeping a travel journal as diligently as my sister insisted. I also feel that I don't have enough sketches, although perhaps one can never have too many.

I hope I'll get a chance to write a travel journal again. Perhaps, in the future, I’ll create something like "Funny Stories" about my adventures.

[emberhartco]

Unlocking Identity Through Creative Reflection

Identity is constantly evolving through personal experiences, social interactions, and cultural influences. To help navigate this journey, we introduced the "Identity Shield" – an exercise that combines creativity with self-reflection. It helps individuals explore who they are by dividing their shield into four sections:

What I love – Hobbies and passions that bring joy.

What I am good at – Skills and talents that define competence.

What makes me special – Unique qualities that set us apart.

My dreams for the future – Aspirations and goals, no matter how big.

Once complete, participants create a personal motto or mantra, followed by envisioning their “superpower” – a unique ability that represents their potential. This creative process not only reinforces self-awareness but also fosters a deeper understanding of identity.

#PersonalDevelopment #SelfAwareness #IdentityJourney #CreativeReflection #GrowthMindset #Emberhart #FearlessAndFree #BuildingHerFuture #BraveBeginnings

[lauralzielke]

Posted @withregram • @soulkindling Celebrating Mary Magdalene today. More story about her legacy of voice and heart at my site. Link in bio 💗❤️💗 #artistsofinstagram #intentionalcreativity #soulkindling #healingarts #ncarts #ncartist #healingart #prayerart #contemplativeart #intuitiveart #sacredfeminine #creativereflection #soulart #dailycelebration #metacognition #loveart #marymagdalene https://www.instagram.com/p/CRpoL6fpiVw/?utm_medium=tumblr

[collectifreflection]

Post-Protest Lessons

MEDITATIONS ON LEARNING

Everyone copes differently. We tell ourselves stories to facilitate our coping mechanisms. We judge others on their coping mechanisms, largely associated with actor - observer bias. Judging is also more acceptable (common) than I had previously thought.

Gratitude for the courage of those who have gone before me.

Hold the line.

Humility. You don't always have to say something.

I can’t extend myself to others all the time as a support system when I don’t receive the same back . I’ve been having a hard time with this. I love to help people but it’s hard when I don’t have the help and support myself.

I learned my already low expectations were in fact too high all along.

I need to learn to practice equanimity. Calling in has been a new one for me too. I have been known to have a hot head - this summer checked my ego. I am better for it - learning to listen more.

I need to slow down and listen more. People have shit to say and I need to get out of my world and pay attention sometimes.

I need to take the time to listen more and not be so assertive with my own opinions.

If I don’t feel safe in a situation, I don’t have to feel guilt for leaving, and there are lots of people doing important things, so it’s okay to choose between projects and actions.

it is okay if things take a long time

Relationship communication

So many people have it so much harder than I do, and while it is important that I do my best to be a good community member.. I shouldn’t be beating myself up for “not doing enough”

Sustainable self-motivation

it’s okay to make enormous changes in your life, not everyone will support you or understand, but those who are most directly affected can support you

The system can't be changed from the ballot.

The gift of giving, as cheesy as it sounds I was able to give this year more than ever before. I made a giving list. It’s a learning process that feels really good.

The rights of the individual are sometimes pitted against the benefit of the whole community which makes each issue inherently difficult to solve in ways that have been successfully employed in other countries. This is an inherently American condition, and I am not sure how anything can move forward when these two opposite forces collide.

There is a lot wrong with our society.. a lot of people are working very hard to educate and create change.. it is easy to get caught up in the feeling that no amount will ever suffice/I am not doing enough to support change and the community. That kind of self talk is toxic.. I have to just do the best I can.

There is no thing such as reverse racism. Also I will make mistakes as I learn. That doesn’t make me a bad person.

It’s ok to change your ideas when you get new information.

My perspective is not the only perspective.

Not all is at it seems

Over focus on an issue will have a opposite reaction than the intended action

Patience, that changes don’t happen overnight and you have to put in sustained, long-term effort.

Quit the thing that’s hurting you.

So many people have it so much harder than I do, and while it is important that I do my best to be a good community member.. I shouldn’t be beating myself up for “not doing enough”

Sustainable self-motivation

That it’s okay to make enormous changes in your life, not everyone will support you or understand, but those who are most directly affected can support you

That the system can't be changed from the ballot.

I am not my history. I have the power to write my own narrative. Nothing matters in a cold world but offering space for less suffering. I can hold these dualities without sinking.

[sonivozar]

Anetka III.

[karlymichelle1]

One A Week Psalm Project

Psalm 6

2/4

Still Moments

We need to remember our ‘still moments’.

Not when the air or the weather is still, or even when the world is still around us

although they may in fact coincide,

but rather the still moments

within your body and soul – your inner self – your integrated self.

When you can feel a realization, or a touch from God, when a moment of clarity descends upon you, despite the world around.

We must recognise these still moments,

and reach out and grab them for they are few and far between.

They are important, for they are the liminal moments in our lives

when we stand on the threshold

between waking and sleeping,

between the real and the really real

between the physical and spiritual

and are in both places at once.

These are the moments when our inner selves are alive

and awake to this moment of the ‘more’ in life.

When we are open and available and ready,

even if we were not aware we were ready,

we must reflect on them

ponder them, pray on them and

be thankful for them,

for they are no more or less real than the everyday moments,

but they can be harder to remember.

They can be seeds, so long as we water and fertilise the

soil where they fall within our inner-selves.

Otherwise they will be there in the sun, parched &

eventually dry up, wither & fall away.

But nurture them, reflect upon them, &

develop what you have learned & felt in your everyday life & hopefully,

prayerfully,

they will grow soft green tentacles around your life.

[amnglobal]

[OUTREACH] AMNGLOBAL based in Baltimore, will be providing a platform for videographers, graphic designers and photographers in the Maryland area to promote their designs, photography, merchandise and services by creating a short video submission, design, or visual detailing their offerings. We want like to see Juneteenth inspired submissions and originality.  Read more, https://amnglobal.tumblr.com/bhm365

[lauralzielke]

Posted @withregram • @soulkindling Voice of light, voice of love. May our hearts be fierce and our expressions be life-giving. #soulkindling #healingarts #ncarts #ncartist #prayerasart #sacredart #creativereflection #soulart #healingart #prayerart #contemplativeart #intuitiveart #sacredfeminine #intentionalcreativity https://www.instagram.com/p/CJYhumJpmWT/?igshid=1grv3lh3ste0k

[karlymichelle1]

One A Week Psalm Project

Psalm 4

3/4

Creative reflections

This week, I discovered I need to prepare even for the simple task of writing up the psalm- otherwise I make mistakes as I did 4 times in a row. Another lesson in focus.

Technically the writing up should be easy, but it doesn’t always mean it is straight forward, or that there aren’t things to be aware of – the spacing, the size of the lettering, the actual words of the psalm in the correct order & knowing what I expect & being prepared to allowing mess or mistakes if that’s what happens.

Also, having professed my dislike of using glue and realising I don’t have to use it, I’ve now chosen to use it 2 weeks in a row. Maybe it’s because it’s in a book that I don’t mind it & I’m not bothered by it because it’s not an artwork to be displayed in the way that others may be?

-

Prayer

Holding my breath

You must still breath

when waiting for stillness.

Breath in God’s love

even if you don’t feel it

and breath out your fear.

And

wait

wait while breathing.

-

Follow this project Insta, facebook, tumblr,  www.karlymichelle.com

[karlymichelle1]

One A Week Psalm Project

Psalm 4

2/4

Untethered

I feel untethered this week. Which is a shame because this project is partly to help me feel more tethered to God.

The way in which I feel untethered is not as though I am floating away. I’ve often dreamt of flying and that is truly delightful. Rather it is more that the world around me feels untethered – like nothing adheres to the rules of gravity any more and instead float away and I can’t grab hold of everything, items slipping through my fingers and out of my hands.

This is this kind of untethered that I feel. It makes my mind work overtime as I try to work out how to pin down all the moving objects while still trying to live life normally. It is as though everything is just ever so out of balance, and I can’t quite keep up, and so I always feel a little unsteady.

It is this kind of untethered I feel when I lose my words, when I stumble over them, rush over them, say stupid things; when I try to ignore the things that have become too hard, or try to rush through them get them done no matter the result because they simply must just be done.

It’s unnerving & at these times I just want the world to be slow & still & quiet so that I can go around & gather up all my thoughts that are floating away and pin them all down on my board of thoughts, ideas & projects so I can return to them at a time when I feel less….untethered.

-

Follow this project Insta, facebook, tumblr,  www.karlymichelle.com

[karlymichelle1]

One A Week Psalm Project

Psalm 13

1/1

Ps 13:5 But I trust in Your unfailing love, my heart rejoices in your salvation.

I’ve possibly written before about how sometimes I feel like I’m getting whiplash from how quickly the psalm writers go from sorrow to praising. A week isn’t enough to sit with a psalm and really sit with it and allow it to seep into your soul.

I guess the question always is, with each new struggle, how we get to the point of being able to say – ‘the Lord has been good to me’ whilst in the midst of our troubles?

I’ve been drawing scribbles and things in pen on the creative page over the week and then had a go with some new watercolour pencils and used too much water for the weight of the paper. I thought it would have created a big old mess but this morning when I pick up my book I didn’t mind it and actually found it quite interesting. It’s messy and energetic in a way I don’t physically feel – but maybe it’s a reflection of ideas or spiritual engagement and energy rather than actual physical energy.

The spiritual journey can be as interesting and adventurous as a physical journey.

Prayer

I know You are the maker of all.

I know You are Saviour of all.

I trust in You to take what I cannot.

I give all my frustrations and joy to You.

I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.

-

Follow this project Instagram, Facebook, Tumblr, www.karlymichelle.com

[karlymichelle1]

One A Week Psalm Project

Psalm 11

2/2

As I read back on this week there is a lot, and much more than I can incorporate into these type of posts.

Ps 11

vs 1 – In the Lord I take refuge

Vrs 2 – How then can you say ‘Flee’…

In God we find refuge, even though we often try to blame God. Even though we might be tempted to run from God, the running takes us from God and then things can be exactly the same but without God. God is not the cause of the danger, but the refuge in which we can gather our strength, and rebuild ourselves.

-

Prayer

Help us not to flee but to remember you are our refuge into which we turn in times of trouble.

Give us strength and wisdom, gentleness and patience, love and joy.

May your presence be known and felt.

The 2 verses that stick out are ‘his soul hates violence and ‘the righteous will see his face’.

The constant swing between these two- that we are surely all capable of violence given the right circumstances but that we are all searching for his face – the intimacy of seeing God’s face – even when we perhaps didn’t already realize it.

I’m reading Victor Frankl’s ‘Man’s search for meaning’ at the moment as well and it illustrates these two extremes living (barely living) hand in hand. He writes so eloquently about the desire to retain himself (themselves) in the camps, and yet how close violence lived to the surface and bubbled over everyday, the strength it must have taken to resist, and the strength it still took even when they did not.

There’s so much more that I have written about this but I think that for now I will just encourage you to read the book for yourself, and alongside this psalm, and maybe I will return to all this another time.