Postcard Project
Previously published on Substack 1/13/25
Through my Listening Practice, I heard the sound of creativity beckoning me back to put color on paper. At first, my mind went to that big, grand place. I went to listen to the ultimate dream of what this work would be at its most stellar, epic state, and then the dream toppled over as I wondered how I could make astounding art with little extra resources, no studio space, and fractions of time that are scattered and inconsistent for honing my painting skills and style.
After months of agonizing and not making anything at all, I remembered the art of simplicity. What if I made it so, so simple that I could begin?
I was rummaging through the garage one day, where most of my studio stuff is being stored, and came across a box I’ve moved many times at this point. About 10 years ago, I bought a lot of postcard-sized paper stock from an older gentleman who was closing down his letterpress printing studio in Chicopee, MA. I spent $5 on the box and have used some of the stock here and there, but mostly, it has just been moving around from studio to studio, home to home, and each time I keep the box handy, hoping I will put it to use. I picked the box up and brought it inside to my kitchen table, determined to use what I had, and stirred with lightness at the thought of never having to move this box again.
As I began working on the postcards, I made the decision not to use watercolors, as much as I’ve been itching to work with my paint tubes, it wasn’t the right medium for the paper. I rummaged through our art bin to see what else I could use. Back in Boise, I bought a cheap set of oil pastels for the girls, and the lightbulb went off. Oil pastels are easy to use; I can work with them on my bed or on the floor; they produce rich color, and they are FUN to create imperfect patterns with. And so I’m committing myself to the Postcard Project. Daily, approachable, and playful art-making. The big dreams will come. Maybe sooner than I think. For now, this is just what I need.
