February 16, 2024
"Red Pears" from the archives. Taken in Portland, Oregon.
It’s mid-winter. Again. Every year I’m surprised at the change in my energy levels in response to the gray landscape, and the reduced amount of daylight. Once spring emerges, I forget all about those weeks of quiet winter. And then have to relearn it all over again the next year.
Creative inspiration is kind of the same. Inspiration benefits from times of rest, which this year I have been referring to as creative hibernation. Or maybe I should call it active hibernation.
I am not recommending we put all creative projects aside. Winter just offers time for some different kinds of projects.
For example:
- Take a new approach: I am not the type of photographer who finds joy in bundling up and exploring the snowy, icy terrain. Instead, this year - from the comfort of my living room - I am spending time reviewing my many hundreds of images that have accumulated over the years on various hard drives. To really look at them and assess whether they are worth keeping, or what I could do with them.
- Fill the creative cup: I always find inspiration through the work of other artists, and winter is a perfect time to visit museums, galleries, and community art shows. One of my favorite things to do is grab my sketchbook and head to the local botanical garden, and just spend time in the greenhouses. Sometimes I sketch, sometimes I don’t. Bonus - if it’s a sunny day, just sitting in the warm sun is completely rejuvenating.
- Take more naps: As I mentioned earlier, I am always surprised at the downshift in energy levels in the winter. This year, I am trying to do a better job of listening to that, and surrendering to a lot more naps. Which are completely rejuvenating. And highly recommended.
What is your creative hibernation plan?