A Reflection
I don't know if it's the chill of winter or post-commencement stress, but I have been seriously lacking in the inspiration department. Admittedly I have not been engaging in the kinds of activities that breed creative sparks beyond theatre work. I haven't been watching my Old Hollywood films or reading engaging classics. I have fallen into a slump involving lots of Food Network marathons, pasta, and heavy procrastination.
At times like this, the best thing to do is a 2 step process--1. look back. I know looking back seems counterproductive but I've often found that looking back and reflecting on past projects that have been successful begins the spark. It reminds me of my roots, who and what inspires me, and let's me see what worked and didn't work for me--be it process or the project itself. 2. Reboot. By rebooting I mean taking an artist cleanse. For me this means eliminating trashy or mindless TV, less social media (unless I'm posting creative content), and letting go of bad habits. This process requires only consuming entertainment that breeds creativity. For me that would include Criterion or TCM films, cooking (and/or eating) beautiful meals, reading quality novels, going to museums, listening to jazz/opera/oldies/etc. by all of my favorites, journaling, writing poems, meditating, and so on. This process requires full IMMERSION of the arts.
Before I begin my artist cleanse, I looked back on older projects specifically endeavors I worked on while I was in college in New York City. I found this wonderfully imperfect photo series taken by my dear friend Henrietta Audu (who took majority of my photographs). I had titled this project "Flaws" and focused on parts of my body that I maybe was uncomfortable with. This series is honestly what led to this blog being created because it was the first time I was ever shot wearing vintage. This dreamy late 1950s/1960s pastel yellow nightgown has sheer sleeves and ruffles at the hem with a beautiful floral lace collar to match. This was one of my first nightgowns that I purchased at the now closed, but forever my favorite vintage shop, Deering Vintage. This gown began my collection of all things in the vintage nightgown and loungewear department. It is imperfect from so much wear and tear but it's why I love it so much!
I remember having Henrietta take a snapshot of my feet which is a part of my body that I have always been self conscious about. I would look at this series sometimes when I felt particularly low and unconfident about myself because it made me view my flaws as pieces of art. I know that sounds super cliche, but it is very true! This series felt very honest and near and dear to me because it was just two young women in their first year of college playing around with a camera in the dorm room.
At times of artists' unrest and uncertainty, it is important to reflect and remember the kind of art that you LOVE to create. Not the kind of art that you want to create or feel you need to, but the kind you LOVE. And let that lead you back to the promise land. I feel a resurgence just making this post!
Hope you liked this little post and I will see you next week!
Photographs taken by Henrietta Audu.