334/365: Creative Space Rituals

“Your sacred space is where you can find yourself again and again.”

~ Joseph Campbell

Since Art Desk Law was passed in December, I'm proud to say the mess has been of the creative variety. I could go as far as to say it's a "mess mosaic" or "clutter collage" of sorts. It is evidence that I have been present and playing in my happy space. Well at least until our two week family tour ;). Now I'm finding it hard to just jump right in after being away for some time. I feel the need to regroup and start fresh. Art studio spring cleaning was in effect today. 

While I'm at it, I thought I'd share my creative space ritual, which makes for a fresh start to any day of creating. Ultimately, the goal is to be able to create any place and time, no elaborate ceremony required. But if you have the space and the time, this is a familiar and comforting way to ease into your creative play. For me it's like sending signals to my brain to get the creative juices flowing. I perform these simple acts in just about the same order every time. It helps make my art feel like more of a spiritual practice.

- First I make myself a cup of green tea in my favorite mug and let it steep while I ready my art space. Green tea is my warm soul cleansing. 

- Next I open the bedroom window to let fresh air in. 

- I turn on the lamps above my art desk and light a candle or some incense. 

Citrus scents energize me. 

- I help my short-legged pup onto the bed. He's my little studio companion; 

he snores while I create. 

- I turn off my cell phone so I have no interruptions. This was hard at first, but I had to remind myself that there once was a time when I wasn't so attached to my phone and I got by just fine. 

- If I'm feeling groovy, I play some favorite tunes on my iPod through the little amp my husband made me. Sometimes I just create in silence. 

- Next, I don my art apron in case things get messy.

- For an extra special feel, I put on the owl key necklace my husband gave me. It's been known to unlock some deep wisdom during my creative process ;)

- Then I ring my muse bell, the hanging hearts ornament from India that my dear friend gave me. This wakes up my muse in case she's napping.  

- Finally, I close my eyes, do some relaxation breathing and visualize myself deep in the process- paint on my hands, canvas a swirl of color. Sometimes I get snippets of images in my mind that inspire my art. Most often, it's just a way to focus and center myself so I am more fully present. 

I can't say I perform this ritual every time; sometimes ideas are brewing and I'm ready to dive in. But on the days that I really need it, this routine helps me connect with my creative spirit a little more freely. I so value that sacred connection.

 Do you have a ritual that activates your creative mind and let's your muse know you're ready to play?