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SPOTLIGHT ON ... ARTICLE
June 2010
How To Get Out of a Rut
Written by:
Lori Anderson
Every designer, at one time or another, has fallen into the proverbial rut. Designs no longer have the same spark, and ideas don't come as easily. Ha. Ask me how I know this!
Actually, if I'd fallen into a rut, I could just follow it to its natural conclusion, and at least have some jewelry to show for it - same ol' same ol' jewelry, but at least SOMETHING.
But no, lately I do believe I've fallen into a HOLE.
There's nothing down here but a little note stuck to the wall with chewing gum from the last occupant.
Hang on, let me see if I can read it .. the sun's going down.
Oh.
It says, “You can get yourself out of your creative quandary."
It says, “Imagine a box. Imagine another box. Stack the boxes. Climb up the boxes".
It says, “When you're out of the hole, STOMP all over those boxes. This is called ‘thinking outside the box'. Now you're free. Now go CREATE."
What exactly does this MEAN?????
Sometimes it's as simple as putting everything away for a week or two and walking away to do something else completely unrelated for a while. Read, knit, take a vacation - anything that has nothing to do with beads. Sometimes it's a matter of switching styles. For instance, I work mainly in glass beads, but when I get stuck, sometimes there is a sublime satisfaction in switching to metal and hammering away.
Ironically, one of the ways I've gotten myself out of a rut is to shop for more beads. Browsing through my favorite internet stores sometimes sparks that “ah ha!” moment and gets me back on track.
Essentially, ruts exist along the road, no matter how long you've been traveling down the road. Rather than let frustration get the best of you, try one of these tricks and see how it works for you. You never now – you may find a new skill you'll love!
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Lori Anderson
Jewelry Designer
Lori Anderson Designs started as a way for a stay-at-home mom to express her creativity amidst diapers and the Teletubbies. With a diverse work background that includes the Air Force, marketing and sales, and a degree in Biology from the University of Virginia, Lori has found her niche in the artisan jewelry world. Lori uses art glass, semi-precious gemstones, pearls, vermeil, and sterling silver to create her designs. Each piece is designed entirely by hand by her, and she offers custom design services with each and every piece. You can view Lori Anderson's work at www.lorianderson.net |
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