Fearless Creativity

Things I want to share....

2010-08-20T16:28:00.008-05:00

I promised myself that I wouldn't go another month without posting here...and yet, I did. By the thought and theories of living in the present moment, I guess I could say, I made it in time. My feelings say something else.

So, I'm here again to ponder the term "fearless creativity".
In my own life, I acknowledge myself for showing up to a showing of my own work in Memphis. My friend, Lynn, opened her home to my art on her walls!

...AND a good time was had by all.... a night filled with incredible energy. Lynn brings that energy where ever she goes....and so does her home...and her dog.

Just showing up was filled with angst and concern...the kind that I really needed to squelch from the beginning. Why I felt those feelings (like nervous about reactions to my artwork)...AND why I feel the way I do....is really difficult for me to explain.

As it is with all of us.
So....for today...I bring you Beth hart:
Someone who can put the feelings that she does into her artwork...AND then put it out there for all to see...well, I think she is fearless and very creative in a raw way.

Hopefully my next blog entry will have some of my work on it....that is my intention as soon as I figure out the photo transfer thing from my camera.
Light and Love, Josie

What is important...really?

2010-07-17T01:09:00.005-05:00

I'm watching a computer die. It's one that has served me well...and even as I write this, I'm wondering when it will freeze. I started thinking, over the past few days away from my facebook friends, about what I want to do on my computer...given the little time that I have before she dies. I took for granted the times playing solitare and times locked in scrabble games which are now at a stand still. I feel lost without my FB network...and yet, this breakdown of my old "Mable" has given me time to think. It's time for me to come back here...to my blog...where only a few see and read. It's not so public. Even if I post a link on FB to my blog, only a few will visit. It's my little online island.

That said, here is my share for tonight:

Love y'all.... Josie

This is from the heart....

2010-04-26T22:34:00.009-05:00

I am counting down the minutes to creating a show in Memphis Tennessee. It is in the town where I was born and it holds so many tales. I was moved from there when I was nine months old to Chicago.

I fell in love with Chicago from the moment they said 'go'. I started selling art on the streets at age five...instead of lemonade. It was not sticky like lemonade and I liked it ...a lot! I had a great mentor named James Swann. He gave me supplies like "mat board" to do my work. He also gave me paints and markers. He was the best!

Sometimes, it takes just one person to light the fire of creativity under one little kid's soul...

....in today's world, that would be the Art Teacher...or the Music teacher...

let's remember that when we vote ....ok?
I say that because our state is grappling with budget cuts...and guess who gets the axe?
Yep...the arts!

WELL... right after mental health that is...

Our State is making mental health cuts that would spin the head of any civil minded human who cared for anything "living".
I am interested in finding a way to help those who fall thru the cracks...any ideas?

Josie

Patsy Rodenburg: Why I do theater | Video on TED.com

2010-04-09T23:38:00.002-05:00

Patsy Rodenburg: Why I do theater | Video on TED.com

This is what I found to be fearless tonight. I have done a tiny bit of theater and a bit of performance art over the years.
Her descriptions...her truth...LOVE IT!

Enjoy...
Josie

I am grateful for friends!

2010-04-08T20:28:00.012-05:00

In the past few weeks, I have been pushing myself to get up and work...to get up and feed the dog...to get up and find something to embrace. It hasn't been easy but there is always something or someone that crosses my path and reminds me of why I'm here...usually, it's friends. I posted this group/song a while back on Facebook before my surgery...while I was looking back, it hit me that this was the piece I wanted to post here.

Since I posted it on FB, so many things have happened. My mind is reeling with thoughts of all of the unexpected's that happened...like ending up in the hospital multiple times...and then being told I have skin cancer which took three times to get it all.... and I still can't wrap my mind around any of it. Today, I received a letter from a dear old friend. It was sent through snail mail...a delight from the old days. I was reminded of something that happened a long time ago that was lost deep within the basement in my mind. It was a good memory....which are few and far between for someone who has had so much damn trauma in her life. Don't get me wrong... I'm not a victim...I'm a survivor! Few of you know all of it which can be a gift and a curse.

What I like about this version of this song by this band is that they're doing it in memory of a friend. I'd love to do something like this for the loved ones I've lost recently....funny how I think of that after the fact...after their gone. I've been working, for the past few years, at remembering how important it is to let the people I love know that I love them while I'm still here...while their still here. I fall short so much of the time. There are so many people that I want to put their face in my hands and tell them how amazing they are and how they make my heart feel so good. I want to kiss their sweet little head and bless them for all of their days to come. And then, life happens and I forget to do that...and sometimes it's just too late and then they're gone...right before our eyes.

So, my message tonight is...don't wait until it's too late.

for all my friends....I love you!

Mornings are dark again....time to press snooze.

2010-03-15T21:44:00.006-05:00

Well, our time has changed. What used to be 6am is now 7am but it still looks like 6am in the sky....with the dark before morning feel. I had the hardest time waking up today. It's like I just took a flight to another time zone and the "news" plays way later than it should be. You see, I live in the central time zone so any trip to the coast is a trip with time....changing my little clock...the tiny one that sits by the bed right next to the hotel clock that I never trust.

Why do we have to do this time change thing? Why can't we trust the sun to come around when she needs to be there? I've never understood it. I know the reasons that are told to me and all that .... but really, isn't this all man made....the need to control light?

Living Fearlessly

2010-02-28T21:30:00.008-06:00

There are some days when life just zings along no problem and then there are the "other" days. I've had a few of those days when walking feels like pouring molasses in January. Today is one of those. It's days like today I have to remind myself of the things that I'm grateful for and of the small steps I have taken even though it feels like I'm miles from the finish line....But that's just it...there is no finish line. As long as we are breathing, there is no end to the race. So each day we get to choose the race we enter to some extent. Life sends us twists and turns and we lean from side to side so we don't tip the canoe. Living fearlessly means the river can get rough and even if we swamp...we still swim to the bank, gather our goods and start again. Tomorrow is another day...in fact, tomorrow is another month. Welcome March!
Here's to a spring with renewed life, renewed gratitude, renewed health!

Here's a song I picked for today....enjoy!
xo Josie

February 15, 2010... and another thing.

2010-02-15T17:04:00.006-06:00

Today I'm sitting here missing my dog Scout. He was rushed to the doggie hospital yesterday after he took a hard fall. Scoutie is an old boy so I think it was really hard on him. It's funny how we get used to certain things when it comes to our animals. For me, all day long I find myself looking for him, reaching for him...I even started fixing his breakfast before I realized he wasn't here. Like so many things, we don't realize the whole left until they're not here. After twelve years he leaves a large hole when he is gone. So, I'm praying that he starts to recover on his own and will come back to me soon. Until then, here are a couple of photos of my baby...

Other news in the Sullivan home....I can drive now! I got my release from the Dr. today so watch out Columbia, I'm back on the road again!
Gratefully, Josie

February 8, 2010 ...Healing.

2010-02-06T23:00:00.008-06:00

I'm Back!!!!!

A friend of mine reminded me of one of my entries long ago on this blog a couple pages down. She was drawn to Oct. 8th where I talk about reaching out and how difficult that can be when using other than face to face interaction. She copied it to me and gave me my words back to me. It was a gift to remember exactly what was happening then and the awareness of being in such a different place now.
For those of you who have followed my surgery and been supportive during such a difficult time, THANK YOU! You know who you are! It has been a trying three weeks. I was released from the hospital on January 15th. A few days later, I was rushed back to the hospital for complications. I had been thrown into a severe round of migraines which I am still fighting. I was released again in a few days only to be home around 36 hours and back to the hospital for a few more grueling days of pain. I'm sitting here trying to think of words to describe this whole thing...and I just can't find the right ones.
This recovery time has found me very antsy to be well...To be back to full speed. My body has another idea. I am learning to be still which feels impossible. I've spent some time sketching and I think I'll just include some of those images and call it a night. Today is a melancholy day and I want to snuggle up with my dog and go to sleep. So, here are some of the images coming out during a time when the pain has been at it's worst. Thank you for taking time to visit my blog! I plan to be posting more often now that the healing process has begun.
Josie

January 11, 2010

2010-01-11T00:08:00.010-06:00

I have not been able to really describe what is happening and what I am feeling....it's just driving me mad. I listen to music to "soothe the soul"...so to say..... I want to share it...and yet I want to share this......happy music later.... this is my favorite movie for it's time....and the love shared here is what I want to share tonight.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQ-4rPxT-YI

Friday...

2010-01-08T20:25:00.007-06:00

Counting down the days and doing the things that I NEED to do. I'm also spending endless hours or at least minutes playing three towers solitaire on facebook. It's one of the things that takes my mind away for a while.

Music also helps me focus, process and feel. So sometimes ...HA...a lot of times I feature music here on my blog. I find musicians to be totally fearless! While I love living in and exploring the visual world, I appreciate the world of sound as another kind of goodness outlet.

Here's my pick for tonight...an old favorite.

Thursday January 7th 2010- info on surgery

2010-01-07T11:28:00.008-06:00

Yesterday I went for my meeting with the neuro surgeon (Dr. Ryan) to discuss the procedure. I came home feeling completely ill. I am confident in my two surgeons and have heard nothing but great things about both of them. There is great comfort in that! However, my little fear gremlin is running around the house willy nilly. Here's what brought that little guy in yesterday... they will have to make an incision in my stomach to take fat (there's lots to choose from) and it will be used to pack my head where they go in to grab the tumor. The other thing I did not know is that they will be putting a valve in my spine in case of a spinal leak. Those two things were new to me. On the bright side, I have an extreme deviated septum which the ENT will fix on their way out of my head. Two surgeries for the price of one....yay!

I will be setting up a group on Facebook that anyone can join for updates while I'm in the hospital. I am blessed with many FB friends that are praying and sending good energy to me and the doctors. The challenge for me is trusting that all will be fine. That is what I call living fearlessly. One step at a time...one moment at a time...letting go and letting God. Another challenge is asking for help during and after surgery. I won't be able to drive for at least two weeks after being home which cramps my independent style. There are so many lessons coming out of this! My prayer is that I can see the goodness in all of them. A friend of mine busted me on the phone the other night about taking care of myself first at this time. While we were on the phone, I got a couple of calls from friends who needed me...and I can easily focus on them rather than my own stuff. Today, I am thankful that I have people in my life that will call me out on my own avoidance of reality.

Let the people you love know it...that's my wisdom today....you never know.
Lots of love and gratitude!
Josie

What a day.....

2010-01-06T00:22:00.013-06:00

...I started the day chasing a dream...it was right there.
I even put my new "dream book" under the pillow that Scout sleeps against so that I can grab it..just in case. ...

Well, after the dream scuttled out of the house through all of the quick & twisted corridors, I had to face the day. It was a day of seeing Doctors...accepting help from a friend who was and is amazing!
... having freaky photos done of my head...inside out....blood test..urine..chats with an anesthesiologist about the "wheezing".... gracious...I'm finally done with this 28 hour day....

BTW- The Punch Brothers are playing here on Wednesday night at the Missouri Theatre... I highly recommend! Here's a taste ...a tiny little bitty tiny little taste...but one of my favorites. Get your tickets soon.

XO Josie

She fights in her sleep...

2010-01-03T01:55:00.003-06:00

This is a find that I think is totally worthy of sharing...
Enjoy!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T17:51:00.008-06:00

I'm so thankful to be welcoming in 2010 tonight! The past year was filled with ups and downs and all arounds. I am taking stock tonight of the past 365 days. There are lots of things I would've done differently and many that I'd never change. I like the sound of 2010 (twenty-ten)....in and of itself the sound is different than the past 9 years. It's still amazing to me that I made it to the 2000's. I can remember in college in the 80's talking about how "OLD" we would be in the year 2000. We chatted about jet-packs...like the Jetsons. Well, that never happened much to my dismay.

Some years I've had the feeling like I wish I could go back. Not this one. I want to move forward...forge ahead...ha!...no pun intended considering the surgery coming up.

Here's a pick of music in honor of the "blue moon".....

I'm finally feeling all of this *#@! fearlessly!

2009-12-27T20:57:00.006-06:00

When I started this blog, I imagined images of "fearless creativity". I could see the visual creativity. Well, after all that's my thing. I can also hear creativity...even louder when it's FEARLESS. I can hear it in a conversation...sometimes it's the calmest voice of the group. I didn't grow up with the "fearless" voice being the softest. No, in fact, it was quite the opposite.

My intention here was to offer ideas and incentives to be fearless in your own life. As my own interests grew larger and I had my own studio, I lost that mission along the way. I'm not downgrading my blog in any way...mind that! I think that I have shared some absolutely precious finds! There are things in the bowels of this blog that will scratch on the inside of your skull! I am proud of those and they will remain in the "older posts".

Now, I am looking to share more of my thoughts and personal ....personal...personal... geez. What is it. LIFE...that is quite personal. Ok, so...as of today, I am dealing with a scary thing. It was scary two years ago and then it was not. It was just a thing then. A yearly thing....kinda like a pap smear. Only this was an MRI of my brain. The first two years gave me the feeling like it was smooth sailing all the way to Greece (my dream after watching 'Shirley Valentine' ). Anyway, this year the MRI showed that this little growth had flowered in my brain. After all the tending of that cantaloupe in my garden that yielded nothing, and still my brain had another idea. Well, so here I am with this years growth. I wanted it to be something else...like better okra or more tomatoes or squash that didn't rot from alien bugs that came from the next yard I'm sure.

All that to say, my brain is working over time and my garden is perishing. So, I have a growth that has to be pruned on the most important bulb of my brain. It's going to happen on January 12th. I don't know about fearless "creativity" but I do know that this is fearless living. I am trusting in the kindness of friends and strangers to help me step up to the plate...so to say. In the next two weeks I will go through tests and meetings and a CT scan to prepare...and I will come back here...maybe not to lay it all out so much as to share what little thing or sound or artwork helped in that day at that time. So, if I put up a link that touches me for that day...well, I hope it touches you too!

With tears,
Josie

First Lesson: Life is Real

2009-11-12T15:24:00.006-06:00

For those of you who enjoyed "Ayo"...you can look her up on youtube. The video was blocked eventually and I will delete this at some time. However, I heard from so many of you that I thought I might put up this notice. While I was trying to change it up and offer the link...it all disappeared. So sorry!

Just Sayin'

2009-10-29T00:37:00.001-05:00

In a minute and a half this man has a lot to say.

Thought for the day:

What's your life theme song?

2009-10-27T00:02:00.006-05:00

There are times when I wonder what my life theme song would be. Sometimes I think about it as the song of the day...theme of the day or week or month. And then there's the "life" theme song...the one I strive towards...the one I also fail at and then get to learn more life lessons.
So, this is one of my top three Life theme songs.

Be fearless,
Josie

King Tubby...this is how it is right now.

2009-10-10T01:51:00.006-05:00

Visually, this is what it feels like in my life right now. The music piece is "Take Five" by Dave Brubeck which was one of my mother's favorites. So, when I heard the back up to this crazy wonderful video...well, I just had to feature it here...during a crazy weekend. It's Artrageous weekend here in Columbia. I invite you to watch and listen to this bit I've posted...and enjoy!
Be Grateful,
Josie

and the rest of the story....

2009-10-07T23:27:00.012-05:00

I just realized how long it's been since I've posted. My computer was down for two weeks and I became quite complacent in the non techno world. Also, in the meantime I've traveled to Kentucky and participated in an art show there. I met some of the most wonderful women in Ky. who treated us like gold. I also met blogging buddies for the first time. We've blogged together on wowowow.com and formed a bond in "wow's" early days. I hope to see them again soon!

On the art front, my website is updated now. http//www.josiesullivan.com It shows more of my current work. I also put all of the work available on facebook; however, the colors are muted there. I'm looking into places I can share photos without losing the color quality. My work is often vibrant and I'd love to be able to share it online as such.
Until then, let me share this with you.... another great find on Youtube....

I'll be back sooner this time around,
Josie

Elizabeth Gilbert - Nurturing Creativity

2009-09-01T00:37:00.010-05:00

I wrote a long intro to this woman and just deleted it by choice. If you have read "Eat, Pray, Love", you will enjoy this talk...if you are an artist, I think you will really enjoy this talk....If you are creative in anyway...check it out!
Get a cup of tea and take a short break...
Enjoy!

http://www.ted.com/talks/elizabeth_gilbert_on_genius.html

Dare to be fearless!

Carol Burnett - comedy and improv.....

2009-08-17T02:12:00.003-05:00

What a pair of creative women!
I would love to have laughter as my biggest problem in getting a piece of work done!
Hee hee. Enjoy!

2009-08-05T23:59:00.006-05:00

Here's a wonderful group of people who've come together to do such a wild, crazy, beautiful piece of performance art! They are fabulous. I found myself laughing and wanting to get up and dance ...but I couldn't because I had to stay and see the details. I would have LOVED to be in this Central Station in Belgium that day! One of the things that I adore about being born on Oct. 1st is that Julie Andrews was as well... and she is one of my heroes.

I love and appreciate what these folks did with her song from the Sound of Music....

Enjoy! Smile!

Street Art....

2009-07-28T23:39:00.006-05:00

I found this while going through a myriad of saved up treasures for my blog. This one inspires me because he is using what he has and making the most of it.
AND it pays off. He got it! He has delighted so many people.

It's great fun to hear laughter when someone is viewing one of my lighthearted pieces. It's also great to hear the sigh when they connect with a more serious...more emotional piece. I think the streets of a busy city (and I have lived in a few) need more work like this to surprise the endorphins out of the folks so innocently and often anxiously walking by.
I give this a big thumbs up on being fearlessly creative!

JT- Shower the People

2009-06-24T02:36:00.002-05:00

From Iran to our everyday lives, this song applies.

Compassion!

2009-06-06T01:53:00.007-05:00

What if we all thought with our hearts instead of our egos?
I think that God was fearlessly creative when he/she came up with compassion.
Welcome Karen Armstrong...if you want to hear more...
go to Ted.com.....a place I find myself often.
This is what I call, "Grace on Tap"!

ENJOY!

2009-06-06T00:31:00.009-05:00

Here's a quote by Marianne Williamson.
Her work reaches far and wide!
What a gift!
I love the innocence of this woman who has found this quote.

One of those weeks... Dear Diary....Blog.

2009-05-15T22:56:00.009-05:00

So much happened this week that I can't begin to sort it out. I have had a long ( one year or so) awaited conversation. I feel free in some ways having said what I need to say...at least in part. You know, when a conversation goes on and on in your head and you don't sleep for months.
Yeah, that's what this was.
I finally got a breath in the midst of toxic thoughts. Unfortunately and fortunately freedom comes when we face our demons. You may ask, "what is fortunate about that?" What is fortunate about having to face demons?
Well, demons teach us...at least this one taught me. It taught me about trust.

What else happened this week? I began to move my studio from Orr Street Studios to my wet basement. This is a challenging place for me. What I know is that in a challenge like this, I am not alone.... tonight a friend of mine offered to transport my easel which is oddly tall. I am thinking about hiring another friend who is beautifully gifted in organization to help me set up my next awesome space. I believe that I can and will create a working studio under my house.

With this ending at Orr Street , I am taking this as a challenge from life. I want to spread my art out beyond the Columbia borders...beyond the Missouri borders...beyond this side of the Mason Dixon line....beyond...dare I say, our country's borders.

Lately I have been spending a lot of time in the garden. I'm trying my hand at growing my own food. I've never done this at the level I'm attempting. Ok, so I've made a hit every year at "sweet one hundreds" ...little tiny tomatoes that are better than popcorn.
So, this year I have stretched to the limits. I planted three yellow squash plants (in hopes to finally learn how to make yummy yellow squash casserole), eight dill, one cucumber , one cantaloupe, many Rutgers tomatoes( to the point that it may be "Attack of the Killer Tomatoes", and two Okra plants. I have no idea what these plants want or need but I suspect I will soon.

I think that the loss of the studio has given me another look at life. My joker side says yeah... can we say poverty? And then, that little kid inside of me says...don't give up....there are people just around the corner who need and want art....and who need and want to explore their own art.

I am choosing to listen to her. The one that sold art on the streets of Chicago at the age of 5,6,7. That's the spirit of a child. So willing...So eager....
So creative..... I hope I never lose her/ME!

Gratefully,
Josie
P.S. I want to put a visual up with this blog post because I always do....and.... I haven't found one yet that really fits.

In honor of Earth Day which should be everyday.

2009-05-01T01:00:00.003-05:00

I'm working on a blog post that will catch some of you up on whats happening right now in my life. Until then, I leave you with one of my all time favorites:

An inspiration

2009-04-14T00:20:00.007-05:00

Here is a little gem that a blogging friend of mine sent to me. I was touched by this incredible woman. So much so, that I had to share her with those of you checking in on fearless creativity. I admire her commitment in the face of negativity.
THIS IS FEARLESS!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

check it out.

For another day,
Josie

Women in Art- a gifted transition

2009-03-26T23:39:00.004-05:00

In honor of Women's History month, I offer this piece that I found on Youtube.
What a visual dance in the world of artists loving women. It's such a delight!

Enjoy!

Start all over...Tracy Chapman

2009-03-24T03:26:00.009-05:00

So spring is a time to start all over. We plant seeds. We plant bulbs...we plant life.
It's the time to start all over.
What do you want to start in your life?
What do you want to see bloom?
Now is the time...it always is.

"Now" is always the time. Right now right here.
Think about your life and ask yourself, what do I want to "start all over"?

Spring is that time when we plant the seeds for a new beginning.
What seeds will you plant this season...

My last post might have been too ambiguous...but this one spells it out.

Plant the creative seeds you tend to harvest in the future.

I often find a seedling that has sprouted. This year it is a tiny "black-eyed susan" that I am nursing in my kitchen. Once again I find myself with this tiny little sprout that I hope will go on to be a mighty flower with seeds and all. Who knows...the weather will tell.
Anyway, Spring is upon us and we can make the garden of our dreams if we want to do so. I mean that literally. Emotionally, I think we walk each day with chances to start new seeds and chances to bury old ones that never flourished.
And after years of working on artwork, the fruits of my labor are starting to bloom.

This is a new season...a new time....a new beginning!
I love Tracy Chapman and relate to the little girl
who picks up the seeds and is making the mud pie sculpture.

Spring hugs,
Josie

Ray Charles: Let It Be!

2009-02-09T01:31:00.002-06:00

I found this to be most inspiring today!

The Creativity of Children

2009-02-07T21:19:00.005-06:00

There's nothing like spending the day with a group of children to remind me of how much creativity is born in us. I think from day one, we are born with a wonderful curiosity for life. If we're lucky, we don't lose that zest for life. Unfortunately, most adults spend so much time worrying that they forget to release the tightness of their brow to let in a little daylight.

I had the good fortune to spend the day last Friday with four creative children. They had a teacher conference day so the parents brought their kids to the Columbia Art League, where I got to teach them art from 9-5. It was a day of questions and quick thinking. I was reminded of the old show "Kids Say the Darndest Things". I was also reminded of the gentle grip they have on life. Kids aren't bogged down by all of the details. Instead, they are more about possibilities. The one little girl in Kindergarten was much less concerned about how her drawing was "supposed" to look, as the Third grader who mentioned that she "couldn't draw something right". Anyhow, I noticed my own "supposed to" thoughts as I was helping these kids make artwork. When I let go of those insidious messages, that's when the real creativity can begin.

Here's to a creative beginning....which is always today!
Josie

Have a garbage free day!

2009-01-27T19:40:00.004-06:00

A dear friend of mine sent this story to me. It couldn't have arrived at a better time. I like the philosophy behind it so I wanted to share this with those who read my blog. Enjoy...or I might say In Joy...live in joy....spread your goodness today to others. And of course, have a fearless day!

*******************

One day I hopped in a taxi, and we took off for the airport. We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us.

My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches!

The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was really
friendly.

So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!' This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'

He explained that many people are like garbage trucks: They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it, and sometimes they'll dump it on you.

“Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets,” the cabbie said.

The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day. Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so...

Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't.

Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!

Have a happy, garbage-free day!

Eddi Reader: Moonriver

2009-01-13T14:09:00.003-06:00

I think it depends on how old you are when you listen to this song if it means anything to you or not. If you're young, you may think, "that's an old lady song". I'm 45 and this song reminds me of my mother. She used to sing it in the car on long trips from Nashville, Tn. to Hardy, Ark. So, this song reminds me of my youth and brings up only positive images and memories. I found it while looking through some of Eddi Reader's music clips. I love her and her version of this golden oldie.

Enjoy,
Josie

"You've Got a Friend in Me"...Lyle Lovett, Randy Newman

2009-01-08T21:59:00.005-06:00

Here's a song that reminds me of all of my friends and the way that I love each and every one. As I grow older, I appreciate my true friends more and more. I guess with age, we realize who those people are and cherish them with a deeper reverence. I'm offering this song to all of those people.

Great News!

2009-01-06T12:58:00.003-06:00

Today I had a miracle happen! I went in to get a biopsy of a growth that the hospital found on my thyroid. I was so scared of having a needle put in my neck. So, there I was lying on the cot and they put the jelly all over my neck to do the ultrasound so that they could guide the needle in to the growth. I could feel my throat closing from being so nervous. The Doctor looked and looked but couldn't find anything. She left and called my primary doctor. Then, she came back and checked again. Unbelievably, the growth is gone! I asked if she was absolutely sure and she said YES!
YAY!!!!! I skipped through the parking lot back to my car. I still can't believe it. It's got to be due to prayer. I asked her if that was normal for growths to go away and she said no. Wow! I think I'll do art about this.

Smiling the BIG smile,
Josie

Ab Fab- Bubbles and the New Year

2009-01-02T15:43:00.004-06:00

Here's 57 seconds of silliness from Ab Fab. It's part of my Happy New Year wishes to all those that I love.
Fresh new beginning hugs,
Josie

The Prayer of St. Francis

2008-12-30T00:42:00.006-06:00

In times when I feel lost or confused, I read this prayer and it realigns me. I found it put to Sarah Maclachlan's music. I hope you enjoy this find.
Josie

Visual Poetry

2008-12-29T14:19:00.006-06:00

Today I'm feeling quite blue. I found this piece on Youtube and it just fit for me. I appreciate the creativity that went into this bit. Tomorrow maybe will bring some sunshine and a lighter heart. I certainly hope so!
Josie

Northern Exposure : "Northern Lights"

2008-12-13T22:54:00.005-06:00

MORE LIGHT!
I find this clip amazing in the connection of lights and the creativity that brought the array together. Once again, I find inspiration in the talent that put "Northern Exposure" together. I think this is a nice piece to put up before Christmas. It's community that holds us together!

Who is a light in your life? Have you told them?

With Light and Love,
Josie

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-25T18:04:00.004-06:00

Raul Midon once again gives a message with his music. I thought this was a great piece of musical creativity for this week of giving thanks. I am fortunate to be spending the weekend with some dear friends of mine who have offered to help me with my grandmother's cabin. We will be playing and working and more playing. This place is on a beautiful river and the weather is perfect for a bonfire. I can't wait to hear the laughter in my family's home. I give thanks for the friends that light up my soul everyday.

Here....art....now....take a look.

2008-11-17T21:53:00.025-06:00

Everyone who deals with fear around their own creativity has to walk out in faith at some point. Whether that is about doing the work, showing your work, marketing your work...you name it. It's all about moving toward the light. I don't know who did this piece but I've always loved it!
*******************************************************************************

Swimming by the Nudist Beach by Josie Sullivan
$90 (12"X 12")
Acrylic Painting
********************************************************************************

Silence by Josie Sullivan
$100 (w 9.5" X 37")

This piece is etched on the back of plexi-glass.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
add shipping cost and it is yours!
+
I've discounted my prices in reflection of the economy.
Haven't we all?

Josie

Seasons of Love...I'm going "Broadway...ish" here...

2008-11-10T22:04:00.021-06:00

This song is just one of those songs. It lives on in my heart for the rest of the day.
I'm hoping to share that experience with you.

I must admit...I've never seen the movie. I have seen RENT...(under very bad audio conditions)
So, this was sort of odd for me to pick this clip. I do plan on "renting" the video?
Anyhow, I love this song and this clip...

Have a loving day!
How do you measure a year...a day?

Josie

Just for Now

2008-11-07T23:18:00.004-06:00

Imogen Heap is brilliant as she weaves a cloth of her own voice within the song.
We weave many tapestries in our lives and some fray at the edges. Others hang on through the years hardly tattered. She does this with her voice in this song. I like to find pieces of music that knock on the inside of my skull, don't you? Allow at least 2 min.s ...20 something sec.s

Josie

Raul Midon

2008-11-06T11:32:00.010-06:00

I feel rather somber today. I've decided to post a musician who I found on Ted.com. His name is Raul Midon. He sings with a passion that gives me chills. The first time I heard his song, "Everybody", I teared up. Music sometimes does that to me. It moves quickly from my ears to my soul. In this clip he does two songs (Everybody and Peace on Earth). The second song just made me think about the hope that this nation needs right now.

Enjoy,
Josie

Barack Obama- Our new President Elect

2008-11-05T10:22:00.005-06:00

Here is the email I received last night from the Obama campaign. (it went out to millions).
It is time for our country to come together and support our new president so that he can do the work that will need to be done to heal our country.

Josephine --

I'm about to head to Grant Park to talk to everyone gathered there, but I wanted to write to you first.

We just made history.

And I don't want you to forget how we did it.

You made history every single day during this campaign -- every day you knocked on doors, made a donation, or talked to your family, friends, and neighbors about why you believe it's time for change.

I want to thank all of you who gave your time, talent, and passion to this campaign.

We have a lot of work to do to get our country back on track, and I'll be in touch soon about what comes next.

But I want to be very clear about one thing...

All of this happened because of you.

Thank you,

Barack

Northern Exposure- Ed's gift to Ruth Ann

2008-10-24T15:14:00.012-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uJx_Mg5HWk&feature=related (3 Min.s)

Here's another short clip from Northern Exposure. You may remember Ed (played by Darren Burrows), who worked in the shop with Ruth Anne( played by Peg Phillips) and longed to be a film maker. I loved both of these characters. I loved Ed for his simple tactless honesty and creativity. He was a soft spoken character that made me want to move closer to the TV to hear every word he was saying. Ruth Anne was a similar character in that way, but every now and then, she would surprise the audience in a elderly wise woman way. In this clip, Ed gives Ruth Anne a tiny piece of land, in view of the mountain for her birthday. His intention is to give her this spot for her grave. It's a humorous clip with a tender feel to it.

Enjoy!
Josie

Northern Exposure - We are here for each other.

2008-10-13T21:06:00.011-05:00

Chris on the Radio:
Link is 1 min. and 59 sec.
Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uF0VEq7N904

Today I picked a clip from Northern Exposure, a show that I wish was still running. I always loved what Chris had to say on the local radio station in the fictional town of Cicely Alaska. It was actually filmed in Rosalyn Washington and I had the good fortune to visit the town during that time. It was like walking into the twilight zone when I walked by the side of the building that the moose walks by in the opening of the show. Of course, we took photos and did the tourist thing with a flare.

When I walked in front of the radio window where the character of Chris did his show, I stopped...looked in and saw the set up...just like the show. What was missing? Well, Chris, played by John Corbett wasn't there. He made the KBHR station come alive with his presence. He read from many of the great thinkers and shared musings on the nature of life. He always gave me something to think about. I miss shows like that. There are a few for me, but this was one of my favorites. I think this clip, which is only 1 min. and 59 sec.s says it all for today.

We are all here for each other.
Have a fearless day,
Josie

Have a Little Faith...and fearless car singing!

2008-10-09T21:03:00.011-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UkKTlzyLhQ

Today, I chose an image of "reaching out" through the cyber world. This can be challenging due to the fact that we can not see the other person's face, reactions, body language... but have you ever received an email and read it with your own spin on what you think it sounds like? My guess is yes, we all have done this if we are at all trying to communicate through email.

Cell phones and email have replaced the actual visit from a friend. It is a substitute for chatting and a poor one at that, but we continue to reach out without seeing the other person's eyes...which I believe tell the whole story.
I believe, like Rhonda and Marta taught me, assume innocence first. I have read an email this week and I am trying to assume innocence...and it is a challenge...without having that person in front of me to really look at while she is talking. Yes, I am a visual processor...imagine that!
I am also becoming aware of how I might sound in an email and have been really aware of what I write and how. I never intend to hurt another and I am working at believing that other people intend the same.
When my heart hurts, it is difficult to hear a raised voice or a raised email. So, what then?

What I know now is to practice breathing. I imagine the other person in warm light... the light of peace... the light of what I choose to call God...the light of kindness and wholeness. I do not choose the path of judgment for today...and tomorrow...well, that is left to be seen and I hope I make the same decision. The link is short and it is a song by John Hiatt that I have loved for years. I remember sitting in my car in Springfield Mo., about to go home and this song came on...well, I just started singing like nobody's business...you know.... the woman in the car rocking out to her song...LOL! ....I get kinda the same reaction when I hear RESPECT...I mean the singing wildly in the car thing... not anything about feelings like Have a Little Faith

Pardon my "...'s", that's when I take a breath.
Anyhow, Please enjoy!

Josie

Lyda Phillips- a guest appearance by one of my favorite people!

2008-10-03T11:08:00.006-05:00

Today I am sharing a testimony of sorts by one of my favorite writers. Lyda Phillips has recently gone out of her comfort zone and here is what she has to say about that.
Welcome! Lyda Phillips...applause.
Lyda- I changed the color but oddly, your writing changed into many colors despite my efforts to make it just one. LOL

The past year has been intense. I launched my son into college and put my house on the market, while living away from my husband, working full-time and still trying to keep up my writing. I have managed to keep picking at various novels-in-progress, but at my last literary brunch with my writing partner here in D.C. we confessed to each other (she's been going through the same kind of pressure--colicky baby, returning to work, husband diagnosed with liver disease) that we have just been sort of squinting and straining and flinging words onto the page that make some kind of vague sense and move the novels marginally forward without any real organic growth or creative essence.

So along about the time I got the boy off the college, I went down to Hardy, Arkansas, for the annual reunion at the camp where I spent my summers from age 10 to 18. I rented a little car and sped up to the Ozarks through the Arkansas Delta with a Memphis hip-hop radio station blasting out the windows, and I thought, "Yanno, this is the first time I have really felt like myself in a loooonnnngggg time."

It really does so often happen that you get what you need. Those sweet, short two days were just the plunge into a watery, emotional, natural world that I craved coming out of the desert I'd been crossing. An oasis centered at Josie's house, where I have always felt nurtured and nourished despite continually catching myself before I speak to her collection of mannequins. Whatever. It was just what I needed. The company of women, the friends (I almost typed fiends) of my childhood, a return to a place and a community where I felt stronger, bolder, more competent and more accepted than any other time in my life.

Josie gave me her blog address, and when I got home I found that she blogged about connecting, or reconnecting with our creativity. Once again, just what I needed, when I needed it. I tried Josie's left brain/right brain exercise with the names of colors in typeface of a different color than the word (wow, that's hard to describe succinctly, another limitation of language). I had such trouble doing that exercise that I realized I was brain-locked. I had been so focused on just getting through these transitions, day by day, that I had completely locked myself in my left brain--even to the point of spending inordinate amounts of time at work playing msn.games. I'm afraid I still have a lot more left-brain days ahead before I can get myself into the next stage of my life (freelancing part-time in Nashville and writing much more). I feel like one of those sci-fi movie images of emerging through a shining silver membrane.

So practically the next day after the color/word exercise, I got a forwarded e-mail from a dear friend in California. This was written to her by William Kennedy, one of her co-workers at the Equal Justice Society, after he had undergone brain surgery.

"I had an incredible experience in the few weeks after my surgery in which you played an important role. The tumor that was removed from my brain was the size of a mandarin orange according to my doctor. It grew from the mid line of the brain into the left hemisphere. To the extent that there was damage it was to the left hemisphere, the rational, linear part of the brain and residence of the ego and identity. Consequently, I retreated to the right hemisphere where the first thing that struck me was the silence from brain chatter. My experience of the right hemisphere was that people are not visualized or understood based upon their accomplishments or time and place of meeting, but instead are felt as part of a whole based upon their unique energy. IN this hemisphere all people are connected as 'one'. Each is a part though barely distinct from the whole. So, I saw you there, Eva. You and Kimberly along with other people with whom I have worked. It was strange and awe inspiring to experience people in their awesome fullness without filters."

So a few nights later, inspired by Josie's fearlessness and William Kennedy's poignant testimony to the power of stopping the left-brain chatter, I turned off the computer, turned off the TV, opened the windows on a late afternoon of pouring rain, turned on Bluesville on the XM radio, burrowed in my desk for an ancient box of Crapas. I had intended to continue drawing maps of an imaginary world I'm creating for one of my novels-in-progress, a middle-grade sci-fi novel. Instead, I picked up something I had been doing more than a year ago during boring meetings at work. Then I had drawn little pictures of my dogs. The humidity made the paper slightly damp and curly but that hardly mattered. This time I found myself starting with the fluffy tail I usually start with when I do the drawings of my dog Cid. But it turned into a little horse. And I looked upon the little horse and found it good. I colored it chestnut. I gave it a little grass and a fleck of sky. The little horse was pleasing to me, calming, curative. And I sat back, admired the horse, listened to the rain and the blues, and realized that I was more perfectly happy than I had been in a long time.

A couple of days later I was revising a chapter of one of my other novels-in-progress and for the first time in months, the words flowed from the creative well, unforced, unfiltered, taking an idea that had come to me in one of those moments when you're not trying, and letting it out onto the page. And for the first time in months, when I leaned back and looked up, hours had passed and I had been unaware of time or place. I had been in my book's world, in my character's head, again. Finally.

I am so grateful for this strange and wonderful chain of events, and meetings, and places, and people that helped me begin to push through that silvery fluid curtain into my new life.
Lyda Phillips: http://writerworking.blogspot.com

Two Alternative Views

2008-09-23T11:20:00.006-05:00

Presently, I am preparing for a show that I do every year. It will be held at Tellers Restaurant/Bar/Gallery which is one of my favorite places to show here in Columbia. This year the show will open on my 45th birthday, so that makes it even more special.

If you live in the area, please come downtown and help Lisa and I celebrate. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 1st, 6-8pm. I hope to see you there!
Josie

Shared Humanity: Chris Abani from Ted.com

2008-09-20T18:50:00.007-05:00

So, I saw this talk and connected to it spiritually, at a core level.This man brings up the idea of daily grace...actually he says, "the world is never saved by grand messianic gestures but rather by the simple accumulation of gentle, soft, almost invisible acts of compassion".

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/chris_abani_muses_on_humanity.html

It is a powerful combination to join creativity and compassion. I hope this man touches your heart as he did mine. Let me know what you think.
Enjoy!
Josie

Website Creativity and Marketing...Miranda July is the Queen for the day!

2008-09-17T08:19:00.006-05:00

http://noonebelongsheremorethanyou.com/00025

A friend of mine sent this to me and it was one of those rare moments when I thought, "OMG!...I wish I had thought of that". The link above is a slide show of sorts that is absolutely clever and creative. I laughed so hard at the idea and the simplicity, that I raced to Miranda's site and signed up for any other website/performance art/silly brilliant marketing things she might do in the future. It takes about a minute or two to click through. At one point you can go to the link of her website directly or choose to stay with the little arrows at the bottom. I've done both and I recommend staying with the arrows until the end. Geez, I'd love to pick this woman's brain!

I'm going now to alert my favorite writer friend, Lyda Phillips, who also has a sly cleverness that seeps from her pores. Then, I may just go write all over my appliances in the kitchen...watch the link and you will understand!

Have fun in a fearless way!
Josie

Education and Creativity...a clip from TED.com

2008-09-14T19:03:00.009-05:00

I taught art in Kansas City Mo...
My Masters thesis was done on this topic.
This man started talking, and in one minute he had me.
He tells the truth about creativity and schools.
Please take a moment to enjoy him.

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html

Josie

The Art of Storytelling

2008-09-13T09:51:00.007-05:00

Here's another Gem from the archives of Ted.com
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/carmen_agra_deedy_spins_stories.html

Carmen Agra Deedy has a story to tell. Her topic is about storytelling. She is delightful, poignant, and one not to be missed. As we hear all sorts of stories from political candidates, this was a nice break from having to determine which stories are true and which are false. At the end of Carmen's story, I dare you not to wipe a tear from your face and at the same time you may find yourself letting out a knowing chuckle.

I'd like to quote something that Ms. Deedy says here... "Good storytelling is crafting a story that someone wants to listen to. Great storytelling is the art of letting go!"

That's how it is with creativity. We all have our craft, our skills, our tools...and when we learn to use them it can be so much fun. When we learn the art of letting go in that process, we dare to jump off the creativity cliff only to find out we had wings all along.

Today, I am letting go. I am going into the studio and play with paint for a while and who knows...maybe I'll do another landscape. As some of you learned in a earlier post...I'm not a landscape kind of girl...or maybe I am. Yikes!

What will you do today to stretch your imagination? Is there an area of your life that "letting go" could be just the thing to transform you?

Enjoy!
Josie

What Can Creativity Do?

2008-09-12T00:23:00.005-05:00

What can creativity do?

Here's a short clip, just to show you what it can and might do for you!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=QdlBJ-q-4JE

Creativity is the beginning of everything...from the chair you are sitting on to the little clip you are about to see. Creativity is life. Creativity is nature. Creativity is love. It's all around us and when it is not.....we are responsible to bring it there! GET IT! I mean it....it's time to stand up and think in a new way. That may be about recycling, to river clean up, to gas guzzling cars, to wars to paintings, to everything!
THINK A NEW!

Evening Porch Talk

2008-09-11T20:27:00.003-05:00

Back to the porch, summer's waning, the tree is full and green with the ever occasional leaf falling. After a week away, I settled back into my porch talk with Rena, Jann and Scoutie. So here we are with the topics of the day.

I drove five hours today with many construction stops. I heard the memorial for 9/11 in every small Missouri town. So, when I got home, that was the last thing I wanted to talk about.

Flash Forward~~~ Two hours....
I'm sitting on the porch with Rena and Jann, watching the hummingbirds and laughing like we hadn't seen each other in months.

All of this on a day when I left my river and my cabin...I left my friends from years gone by... I left so much of my heart...and yet, I find that my heart continues to grow large enough for all of these friends and places.

One of our topics tonight on the porch was the color of Jann's Pillar's. She lives across the street and she has been sanding and prepping those things forever. She finally painted the Kilz on and now is ready for the color. Rena and I are challenging her to put up something bold...like brick red ( > ; You would have to see it.

Porch Talk...it's something that fills our inner reservoir.

Leadership and Imagination

2008-09-10T18:12:00.005-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hN7fjpfDz5c

Some of the greatest leaders could imagine things that few others could comprehend. The names that immediately come to mind are people like Gandhi, Einstein, Picasso, Martin L. King Jr., Edison, Abe Lincoln...and the list goes on. They all had visions of something new, something better, something that served humanity in a unique way.

In the short clip at the top, I am reminded to exercise my imagination by spending time living life creatively. For me, that entails getting messy with my artwork, letting go of the tightness in my brush strokes, continuing to sketch, writing on my blog. Sometimes I just want to sit in front of the tv and let someone else take care of the creating, but that does not feed me. I want to sit with a book and not think about writing the children's book that I've always dreamt about since I was a little girl.

I believe we must stand up and take action...even a small one. Each day we can choose to do something differently and stretch our imaginations. I have a good friend named Rena and when she comes over to my house, we laugh, cry, cook, play, paint,sing, and think up ridiculous stories. I sometimes tell her that she is my muse. My imagination gets sparked around her and all of a sudden, like taking blinders off, I can see. I see new paintings, new methods, new objects. We all need a "Rena" who, just by their presence, opens hearts.

Who is that person for you?

Here's to a fearless imagination!
Josie

Emotional Toxicity

2008-09-09T16:42:00.014-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6Xyjxdxjb4&feature=related

The above link is of Deepak Chopra who, in one minute, gives 7 steps to releasing toxic emotions....one of the enemies to creativity.

Be fearless,
Josie

Filling the Internal Reservoir Part II

2008-09-08T14:56:00.008-05:00

When I spend time with old friends from my childhood, I find that the childlike spirit inside comes out to play quite easily. Part II of my weekend was spent with women from Camp Miramichee. This was a camp that started in 1916. A place where girls gathered and made friends of all kinds. I myself attended from 1970-1983, as camper, junior staff and finally Canoeing Director.

The women in the top photo are (from left to right), Gayden, Chi Chi, Suzanne, Jeri Lynn. They like to be called the "Class of 1964". They went to Miramichee much earlier than I did, but I have found that every Miramichee "girl" grew up with the same songs and rituals. Even though we didn't go to Miramichee at the same time, we all have the same Miramichee core. We were all taught to respect the river, fire, snakes, paddles and canoes. We were also taught the importance of loyalty, devotion and spirit. There is nothing like getting together with the spirit of my childhood.

The women in the second photo are some of the girls I grew up with and then had the good fortune to be their camp counselor. I could tell you a story involving each that could make you laugh a sweet tearful laugh. The kind that makes your sides hurt!

The third photo is during our church service on Sunday morning...just before everyone had to get back on the road and go back to their "adult" lives...their families, careers, students, companies, books, artwork....you name it, these women do it! We were standing on the land where the original camp was located. A sacred place for many of us. Miramichee also taught us reverence.

I chose the last photo which was taken at "After Camp". A few of us stayed and played on the river. More laughter....more memories that I store for creative juice. Never doubt the power of childhood friends joining together, even if it's only one time a year!

Have a fearlessly fun day,
Josie

Filling the Internal Reservoir

2008-09-08T12:52:00.016-05:00

This weekend I had a wonderful opportunity to fill my "internal reservoir". I attended a camp reunion in the foot hills of Arkansas, near the beautiful Spring River where great blue herons nest and dragonflies play. I realized all over again, how important nature is to feeding my creativity. When I watch the herons fly by my dock in the morning, I feel an ancient connection with them. I've watched them on this river every summer of my life. The connection is about more than that though. They seem somewhat prehistoric to me with their extending necks and huge wingspans.

And then again, I feel that same connection to the dragonflies as they land on my arms while I'm in the canoe. I love looking into their big round eyeballs and their prehistoric tiny faces. Over the years, the dragonfly has appeared in my artwork which came directly from the time I gave myself time to play in nature...paying attention to their every move. I choose to spend time like this to recharge my battery...fill up my soul.

Time in nature is just part of what filled my reservoir this weekend. Being in community or "communion" with others also helped open my creative soul. That story will be in part two, which will be posted later today. Until then, find a window and crawl out of it to see the wonderful things that await you in nature.

Left Brain/ Right Brain

2008-09-03T16:07:00.004-05:00

Here's an exercise for your brain. This one is good to do before diving into your creative project. It forces the brain to use both sides at one time. Remember to say the colours aloud.

Today, I'm at the river and it's rained all day. I love the sound of rain on the water and trees! I will be attending a camp reunion starting tomorrow. We have the women who taught the women who taught me and then the women I taught...canoeing, swimming...etc. I guess that's four generations. It's fun to get together once a year and see the friends of my childhood. If you really want to get in touch with your inner-child, find a bunch of camp buddies and act like kids for three days. Guaranteed to pull you out of any tight panty left brain thinking!

Showing Art Work

2008-09-01T09:57:00.006-05:00

Risking It All!

In the past week, I have risked it all again. Like the many times before, I surprise myself when I let go of the outcome and dive into the process. My church has a beautiful gallery and for the month of September, my work adorns the walls. It was a risk to let those in my spiritual home see my work. The window piece that you see above (full and close up), is close to my heart in that it signifies my strength in a time when life has been challenging. I was diagnosed a year and a half ago with a brain tumor, a thyroid tumor, and a rare disease called myasthenia gravis. I knew something was going on when my vision doubled but I never imagined that the doctor would find these things. On the days when I thought I just could not go on, I went to my basement and worked on this window piece. It is filled with images that represent power to me. The close up is of my take on a phoenix breaking out of the fire to fly. This work is titled "The Phoenix Flies at Midnight". You will see at the top that the clock is about to tick it's way to 12 am.

The other piece that you see above is a painting titled, "The Giving Tree". The risk here is in the fact that this is a landscape and I am not known for that type of work. It has been 20 years since I attempted to do something more representational like this artwork. I felt really uneasy putting it out there! And guess what? Yesterday, at the opening, I sold one of my pieces and this was it! Wow! I never thought that my little house and tree would be a top pick. Out of the 25 pieces showing, the two above by far got the most compliments. Ya never know!

Challenges:
Where in your life are you risking? When the world gets dark, how do you turn on your spiritual lights? How willing are you to explore your creativity by creating something completely different?
Have a creatively fearless day!
Josie

Share your gratitudes

2008-08-26T15:53:00.004-05:00

http://www.gratefulness.org/index.htm

This week a friend of mine posted this site on her blog. As I have been exploring creativity, I am finding the information here to be inspirational. Being grateful, even in the face of adversity, is the key to opening the mind to new possibilities. Lately, quite a few things have happened that derailed my gratitude train. It only takes a short while for me to be off the track, before I start using my tools to hop back in the groove. I start listing my gratitudes to help tweak my attitude. I also call friends and take a deeper interest in their lives which helps me get out of myself. And, of course, I do art to help my brain switch to the right side... the creative side! When I get in touch with my creativity, I can see solutions to problems that I may have never thought of before.

What do you do to "get grateful"?
Is there one friend that you haven't talked to lately that you would be willing to call in the next 24 hours?
What is one thing you are grateful for right this second?

Enjoy the site link above!
Have a creatively fearless day!
Josie

Do Something Different Today!

2008-08-20T07:52:00.008-05:00

The last poster on my previous blog entry asked a question. Thank you Elisabeth! She asked me what has been my biggest challenge in my art career. This started a mind movie of instances where I risked leaving my comfort zone to do things differently. At one point in my life, fear knocked and I answered. I let fear in the door and her presence covered me like a glove. I stopped drawing, painting, sculpting....even thinking about doing art was off limits. This went on for ten years. I was locked and blocked from my creative spirit.

Then, while working with Marta Weiskopf through my connection to Fearless Living (fearlessliving.org), I found ways to start risking again. I got back into my art studio and produced some of the best work of my life. I will always be grateful to Marta for her support! She has, over the years, encouraged me to finish a children's book that I started in 1994. This is on my "bucket list" of things to do before I die. So many things are on that list. Here's the key: Risk, Do, Create, Move Forward.

My biggest challenges as an artist have always been wound up with fear in some way. The absolute biggest challenge was the first day I walked into a local restaurant and asked the owner to show my work. I didn't even have enough work for a show, but I knew if she said yes, I was on my way. Well, she did say yes and I worked for three months to get a good show together. It was the first time in ten years that anyone had seen my work. Since then, I have had many shows and continue to risk and create to move myself forward.

So, what will you do today that makes you take a risk? What small step will you take that will move you past your fears? What is a dream you've had that you've never acted upon?

Fearless Creativity

2008-08-11T12:02:00.006-05:00

Creativity:
JK Rowling on the Importance of Failure and Imagination

Welcome to a new creativity blog!

My name is Josie Sullivan and I am an artist and creativity coach. My dream is to create a space here, where others in the arts can come and discuss all sorts of creativity. As a Fearless Living Life coach (fearlessliving.org) I'm here to tell you, that when that same old fear of failure jumps in the room, that's when it's time to get busy. I'm grateful today that I know what to do when this happens...face it and do the dream anyhow. That's what I help others to do who are paralyzed by fear and want to walk forward through all of the risks to achieve their dreams.

I found a lovely speech that I will be featuring today by J.K. Rowling. She was giving the commencement speech to Harvard this June and she talks about the importance of failure and imagination. I am including the links (it's in 3 short parts) and I invite you to enjoy her amazing way of expressing herself and her ideas. You may want to grab a notepad and some tissues.

Part one:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L445BmUEXH4

Part Two:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kh_tSiqL1U&feature=related

Part Three:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqGotirF20w&feature=related

Please come back and feel free to comment on it! What do you think about failure? Imagination? Creativity? Fear? Did parts of her talk raise the hairs on your arm?
Did part three bring up any emotions? If so, why?

Here's to Fearless Creativity and beyond!