For me, finding inspiration through art seemed so out of reach that seeking artistic inspiration did not seem possible. I frequently would say “I’m not an artistic person…I can’t even draw stick figures…” Art therapists, artists, friends, and family inspired me as artistic individuals. I was in awe of their creativity and abilities to express meaning. In my life’s journey artistic people would begin teaching me how to find inspirations in art.
When teaching and facilitating Relaxation Therapy in an outpatient psychiatric program, a patient introduced me to new relaxation techniques from Bob Ross. John was quite persistent in his requests for me to get a Bob Ross DVD. In addition to purchasing a DVD, I bought canvass and brushes. I then introduced a new relaxation technique, Fantasy Painting with Bob Ross. With dimmed lights, guidance from Bob Ross and his famous isms we created AND relaxed. I was hooked and became a Bob Ross Floral Instructor. I have learned that oil painting is forgiving and is more like sculpting.
While vacationing with Artist Ellen Kieffer of San Jose, California, I was given a personalized crash course in art appreciation. I spent the day learning the art of printmaking in Ellen’s art studio, not as an observer but an active participant. I was introduced to getting lost in painting and experiencing no intrusive and worrisome thoughts.
After printing my art and cleaning up the studio, Ellen asked me the name of my painting. After the initial panic, I quickly named the painting “Invisible Connections”. I owned my painting and it hung in my office for years. Later, oil painting became a drug free way to manage pain after an accident.