Think Outside The Block

There are days that ya just need to think outside of the block. Okay, I know the saying is "Think outside the box." But as an artist, sometimes it is a block that you need to see past.

Any sculptor would understand. Most start with a block of wood, granite, marble, etc. etc.

After we worked on our house, I had like a million pieces of scrap wood laying around. Everyone kept trying to throw them away but I couldn't let them. I think most artists understand repurposing. I painted scenes on several peices because that was what I was used to but one begged for something more.

It was the size and shape of a coffee table leg. 2"x2"x2 1/2' to be exact. What could I have painted on something so small? I looked at it for weeks wondering myself.

When I was unpacking our stuff I came across one of my rotary tools. I set it out in the notion to carve on some rocks (Again, this is what I am used to doing). A few days later, I realized that maybe I should carve the block of wood instead.

It soon became a face on the corner of the block. The more I carved, the details shown through as a Native American man. When I got done, I could see the paint that needed to highlight the face.

Before long, it became a finished piece that had it's own personality. I had officially achieved a mixed media that popped.

Remember, the next time you are setting down to create, think outside the block. Try something different and go beyond your comfort zone. Push yourself. You may amaze yourself or even learn something new.