It’s not always easy to play but it is always soul nourishing when I do! What makes it hard to play some days? My inner critic. That critical voice in my head.
I stood in my studio, stuck. Totally unable to decide what to do. Then Funky Town, the Pseudo Echo version from the Awesome 80’s, came on. I turned up the volume and I went with the impulse that was dancing around in my head. I wanted to draw a funky town.
Immediately… that critical voice of my inner critic said, but you really don’t draw “good” buildings. At that moment I had a choice. I dared to play. It was a risk, I was letting myself be vulnerable. It is just paper and paint but to my soul it is so much more.
As I created the buildings, their shapes weren’t “proper” according to my inner critic. I dared to keep going.
As I drew in the windows,that critical voice said they were chaotic and “wrong”. I dared to leave them there.
The more I ignored that inner critic, the freer I felt. The freer I felt, the more I could just act on impulse and get lost in the moment.
As I added colors and words, my inner critic said I didn’t do it “right”. I no longer cared what that voice had to say.
As I drew the stars in the Gelli printed sky, the voice quickly pointed out that they looked awkwardly placed. I dared to accept them just as they were.
Within 15 minutes from start to finish, Funky Town was done. I was happy and my inner critic was powerless because I dared to play.
This is one very imperfect piece of art but a very perfect piece of play. Never miss any of the play – sign up for my free newsletter!
Supplies Used
- Now Is the Time stencil
- Wall of Words stencil
- Gelli Plate to make prints – any size will work. You can find more of my Gelli printing videos at the Colorful Gelli Print Party.
haha! in one of our facebook groups we just addressed our inner critics. timely post! so glad to know we all have inner critics.
Carolyn, I just want to let that inner critic guy of yours know that I adore your buildings, indeed very funky they are (a new stencil maybe 🙂 ).
I am so glad you don’t know how to draw houses well because these are simply delightful Carolyn!!! Love your spontaneous play! 🙂
I always live in Funky town thankfully. Love your version, let’s hang out for a dance and a cocktail and chat over freedom. xox