Of April showers and all things art.

We had an absolute downpour yesterday - the first real soaking for Autumn 2015. Most of the time I was safely inside, watching it somply bucket down from my desk although I did head out when there was a break to do the banking and a postage run. The break didn't last long and I found myself sheltering under the eaves of the local shops waiting for another break.

Someone's gutters need cleaning.

On the way back to the office I finally noticed that autumn was indeed in progress. Funny how I haven't noticed since today. I love autumn leaves. I saw a lovely selection of autumn leaves dried out, pasted on a board and framed over the weekend. It inspired me to collect some and make a frame of my own.

Since writing that last post I have been concentrating on engaging in activities that nurture my soul and bring a sense of calm and peace. It has been beyond helpful.

Zentangle by me!

I'd been thinking about creating a zentangle for the longest time. I don't know what took me so long to just get out the fineliners and do it. I'd been looking for online zentangle patterns to print out and then happened upon basic instructions for creating your own using geometric shapes, so I just got out a glass, traced around it and off I went. Zentangles are a wonderful way to practice mindfulness. I found creating this one to be so soothing as I concentrated on different patterns and designs. I was so pleased with the end result - so much so that I put my design into a white frame to display it. I'd like to try different and more complex shapes now.

I also had a bit of a play with watercolours and fineliners last night - not with the greatest of results, but it was fun all the same.

I've also finally resurrected my trusty Nikon and started experimenting with photography again. This was inspired by a photoshoot a friend and I did together last week where we played with light and shadow.

Photo credit: M Coppolino

The fact that my hair was a shambles and I had no makeup on didn't really matter in this instance!

Photo credit: M Coppolino

We also played with reflections. 

Photo credit: M Coppolino
Taken from the reflection in the mirrors in the room.
(also photobombed by Missy the dog!)

Since these I've been trying to take my camera out on walks to capture things that catch my eye and remind me of how beautiful life really is. This has been really important to me lately. Through our screens we are being bombarded by so many negative images, so much hate and violence that it's easy to think that those images are what makes up the world. I've been mindful to turn off the news, not go to news websites or read the paper lately as I find it all too upsetting. My sister does the same thing, saying that those things are "none of her business anyway." I tend to agree. 

I have to admit to applauding though when I did hear a news report talking about International Pillow Fight Day. Now there's a war I would support!

So, that's what I've been up to. I guess you could say I'm taking an active role in my own mental wellness. Over the past few years I have learned the value of self-nurture and self-soothing and I'm certainly finding it helpful right now.