52 Weeks of Creative Mastery

By Malcolm Dewey

"52 Weeks of Creative Mastery" is an inspirational compendium to help you unlock the potential of your creative spirit. Offering 52 chapters of essays, practical tips, and motivational anecdotes.

Within these pages, you'll find wisdom and strategies for finding time to create. Also techniques for conquering fear and self-doubt. 

Topics ranging from the essentials of time management to the nuances of artistic expression. Discover your unique voice, cultivate resilience in the face of challenges, and infuse your art with authenticity and purpose. 

But "52 Weeks of Creative Mastery" doesn't stop at inspiration—it equips you with practical tools to take your art to the next level. Learn essential business tips for navigating the creative landscape, from marketing strategies to building a sustainable career. Empower yourself to turn your passion into a profession and your dreams into reality.

Engaging prose, humor and actionable advice, "52 Weeks of Creative Mastery" is more than just a book—it's a companion for every week of the year. Whether you're a writer, painter, musician, or creator in any other form, this book aims to help you rech your full creative potential.

Let this book be your guide as you cultivate your craft, conquer your fears, and transform your art—and your life—one week at a time.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Malcolm Dewey
• Release date: Mar 25, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224656417

Book preview

Introduction

Welcome to, as the title suggests, yet another ramble through 52 weeks of creative inspiration. More anecdotes and tips on navigating life as an artist. At least through my experience.

When I wrote the first book in this series in 2017 I did not expect it to be very popular. Turns out I was correct. That is to say no New York Bestseller lists. No invites to sip champers on yachts with Brad and George. Certainly no awkward financial planning maneuvers to cope with fat royalties.

No, none of that.

Instead I did receive many emails from artists thanking me for giving them some hope during difficult moments. Also useful insights into being an artist who has to show up and do the work.

A few laughs too. I am not that funny it seems.

No matter.

This welcome feedback in turn has inspired me to put together this compilation of stories that will carry on the good work. Maybe even get a few more laughs. If you know what I mean.

It has been four years since that first book. The world has since gone mad. I may have been replaced by AI by the time you read this. Despite this dystopian prospect I shall find a way to keep growing my art practice.

There have been wonderful interactions with artists all over the world. It is humbling, rewarding in so many ways and downright inspirational to work with all of them.

There is that word again. Inspiration. Without it we artists are lost. With it we can do incredible things. We must kindle it, seek it out and once acquired, take our share then pass it on.

That is what this book seeks to achieve. To pass on inspiration to you, the creative soul, so that you can carry on with your duty and make something wonderful.

Onwards and read on!

Malcolm

January 2024

How to Return to Your Art Spirit

Socrates said that the unexamined life is not worth living. He was referring to a life governed by rules and routines imposed by others. Such a life is not freedom, but rather unconscious at best. Oppression at worst.

When I begin quoting philosophers I know it is that time of year again. The Old Year ushering in the new. Socrates gave his life for that quote so the least we can do is reflect upon our own lives for a moment.

Reflection is Not Easy

As an artist I have a sense of trepidation doing this. Was the past year a success? Did my art improve? Have I lost the spark to create? Will this year improve or should I get a real job?

Just kidding about the real job bit!

So there are a few hard truths to face. Which is good because this gives life meaning. And something to do while we wait for the next Gilmore Girls series. That is my wife's comment by the way.

The Number One Artist's Issue?

Anyway, to be serious for a moment. I have heard from many people over the past year. I read their comments on blogs and social media and so forth. The number one issue is not how to improve one’s skill. It is how to get back to creativity. How to return to painting, for example. Sounds so simple, but there is a ton of baggage wrapped up in this idea.

What! Me Worry?

I am not a psychologist, but as a husband, parent and artist I do have a little experience with life's curve balls. But the one that gets me is why are we so worried about what other people will think of us? At our age we should be brimming with confidence.

Who cares if my drawing is dodgy? Or whether my painting comes with a few errors? It will improve as I get my mojo back. In the meantime I am having fun and relaxing.

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What is Art Anyway?

The great artist and teacher Robert Henri said: I don't believe any real artist cares whether what he does is art or not. Who, after all, knows what art is?

Many people start retirement and think about returning to art. Or starting for the first time. I think first timers have an easier decision actually. It is the old hands who struggle the most. Art is a talent, but you learn your skill with practice. Or lose it through lack of practice. It is difficult to admit you have regressed.

The Set-Up for Failure

The scenario often follows this route. Retired artist wants to start painting again. Goes to the art store and purchases new supplies. Lovely easel, canvasses and other expensive items. Returns home and assembles the studio.

Our artist begins painting straight away. She is shocked to discover that the painting is not good. A bit embarrassed by this, she closes the studio door. Best not to show this off. She resolves to try again next time. Sadly the studio materials gather dust. There is not enough time anyway.

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What is the Art Spirit?

The art spirit is the ageless and limitless source of creativity within us. A child feels this instinctively without ego or conditions. As adults we stifle this spirit for material reasons or our ego inhibits us. Life happens, but creativity is life too. How can we justify burying our creative spirit for a moment longer?

If you want to explore this concept further I recommend that you read the book, The Art Spirit by Robert Henri.

There is Time

The trite excuse is that there is no time. I used this one too. Everyone has resorted to this excuse and it stinks. Back in school if I told the teacher that I did not have time to do my homework there were consequences. Not good ones. Too bad if I had sports commitments and other things going on. I had to make time.

Adults use this excuse all the time without immediate consequences. But as time ebbs away the loss is tragically final.

When I look back a few years ago I am shocked by the time wasted. Television alone stole chunks of my life. Until I cut the cable and released two hours a day. That is at least a painting per day right there. Imagine if I sold half of those paintings? That is potentially fourteen paintings a month!

The Real Price

So let us agree that we can find time. That we can keep our egos in check. Is art not too whimsical for us? Is it important? Let Robert Henri answer this:

Art cannot be separated from life. It is the expression of the greatest need of which life is capable, and we value art not because of the skilled product, but because of its revelation of a life's experience.

If you want to paint again, but somehow find a way to avoid it then consider this. You have a life of experiences to pour into your art. All the material is there waiting. All you need to do is begin. The wonderful part is that every painting is also a new beginning filled with potential. Why let this experience pass by?

Now is the Moment

I wonder if Socrates ever imagined that his words would be read over two thousand years later? Doubtful. But life's universal truths remain constant. If you find yourself doubting your artistic desires then stop second guessing. Instead begin to create again. Make art knowing that you are fulfilling an essential human need for expression.

The Reward

The art spirit rewards you generously.

●  More confidence as your skills grow.

●  Relaxation.

●  Freedom from anxiety when you are in the zone.

●  Freedom from boredom, distraction and the daily drama of life. Less retail therapy which can lead to more problems.

●  A home filled with your art is also something to treasure.

I hope that you find that moment today. The moment when you begin to make your art again. The moment when you change your routines a little and invite your art spirit back into your life. Socrates and Robert Henri would be proud of you.

What This Year Needs the Most

Perhaps you cannot believe that a New Year has just begun?  I know that the six months before July are a bit vague. The last three months are a blur and the others are missing altogether. What happened?

So a time to reflect and jog the memory is required. What was last year all about and how can you make this year better?

Highlights and Other Bits

To be honest I find it difficult looking back on the last year. Yes we all had our personal ups and downs. Hopefully more ups.

There are the hopeful moments and the despairing ones. The laughs and frustrations. Loves gained and lost.

But if I must find a way to sum up the year it would be this. Almost everything was dominated by one thing.

Fear

Let us put that in capitals shall we: FEAR

Yes, the number one enemy is good old fashioned fear. Franklin D.Roosevelt famously said that we have nothing to fear but fear itself. This was way back in 1933 when the world was in the grip of the Great Depression.

Roosevelt knew that what Americans needed was hope. One may say that food and shelter would be first. But without hope the people suffering in the 1930's would not be able to create anything new. Fear robs us of hope and our creative spirit.

What Has Changed Now?

If we compare ourselves to the millions who lived under the Great Depression we look rather spoiled. If you can read this blog and I can write articles online then we are way more fortunate than those poor souls.

It is almost guaranteed that if you are living in a peaceful part of the world you will be better off today than in the 1930's. So what is the problem?

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My Awareness Resolution

I broke a Golden Rule last year. The one that says Avoid the Mainstream Media. If there is one thing that thrives on fear it is the media churning out so called news.

Thanks to the US elections it was easy to get sucked into the news circus. How crazy were all the dire predictions? After this holiday season, away from news channels, I can honestly say that I feel better.

More positive. More creative and I am looking forward to new challenges in the year ahead. The secret is to be aware of the message that feeds you. Bad news will bring you down. Good news inspires. Our thoughts determine our actions.

Take Action

Two things we control will determine our future. Not the emphasis.

Thoughts and actions.

Your own thoughts and your own actions can lift you or bring you crashing down. At the very least make them your own thoughts and not some media house pushing an agenda.

For example: I am looking for creative solutions to grow my art career. Improve my art, meet new collectors and artists. Work with like minded people and to learn from leaders in my field.

We all need mentors who have walked the path before us. If you can learn from someone like this your creative vision is automatically enhanced.

Find Your Creative Niche

Not everybody wants to paint. Many people tell me that they read my blog because they like creativity even though they make something else. Jewelers, designers and decorators, for example, have written to me about their creative journey.

What activity gives you a soul-boost? That is the one to focus on and grow your passion for it. Study your creative niche and take action to grow your art. Because that is what you are. An artist.

Write Your Own Script

If we can banish fear we can achieve anything! The idea then is to determine your own future. Write your script. Not just a few resolutions. A script has more detail. There is a beginning, middle and end.

You want more specifics about actions and outcomes. Know what you want to happen to you this year.

Write the script  and take action to make it happen. One scene at a time. Add to the script as you go along, but know what it is you want for the ending.

Your New Year Screenplay Title ......................................

Act one.

Scene One.

ACTION!

Gentle Persistence

As many have said before the gentle river has carved out many great canyons over time. Nobody likes a pushy and overbearing person. Ultimately when we have everyone moving peacefully in one direction great things get done.

Go easy on yourself and others, but stick with your script. You will be amazed at how a little positivity and kindness can do so much.

Final Word

The past year would have been a bust without YOU. Artists, collectors and creative friends. I want to conclude the year by saying THANK YOU! I appreciate your positive involvement with my art career. To everyone that has taken a moment to share their common passion for art with me. Thank you. I do appreciate it.

How to Develop Mindfulness Through Painting

It was George Bernard Shaw who said Youth is wasted on the young. I sometimes remind my young adult sons about this when they are getting uppity. This amusing quote, like all good quotes, has more than a grain of truth to it, especially when you reach your fifties and sixties.

But how about we look at this quote from another angle. How about Let us not waste our hard earned wisdom in old age. I like that idea. Then it struck me how much painting is helping me during this time of life.

The Journey to Mindfulness

Let me explain. When I was a much younger man painting was about skill and show. I had to get the skills to steal the show – or something like that. I had to stand out, sell paintings and grow in reputation like any ambitious young person, I guess. This is fine to a point, but I missed the bigger picture since my focus was just on my career.

Painting and Awareness

Over the years I had to learn more about a balanced life. You may have had similar concerns in your career, too. Try as I might, I simply could not get into the meditation concept. Meditation is still very difficult for me. But it was through painting that I could disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. By doing this I became aware of thoughts that were causing me problems. When I painted, those ideas and thoughts disappeared – often not to return.

Why Being Aware is So Important: The world has witnessed some of the most important events in a long time. If you look at the Brexit, US Elections, World War 3 beckoning, Covid controversy and the most bizarre social changes. The list goes on.

We can see that people are very emotional. That is an understatement in the good old English tradition.

The power of ideas can stir up unfortunate emotions where people say and do things that they regret later on. We all have our limits. I am no different. But it does help to see one’s behavior and put the brakes on quickly. Awareness makes this possible.

Painting Makes the Difference: ​Without the pause that painting gives me I would be another touchy and reactionary person of the 21st Century. For many people starting retirement today the world can seem like a scary place indeed. Sadly, most people start retirement without the skills needed to cope with this time of life. With too much time to think about problems there can be very little peace of mind. Drama takes over every day.

If you have thought about giving painting a go, or you are a lapsed painter, I do encourage you to dive right in without a second thought. There is more to painting than putting paint on a canvas. It is a deeply intellectual pursuit without an end. You do not complete the game and look for something new. It is a journey of self-discovery that will help you see the world and your own life more clearly.

Mindfulness means being aware of your thoughts, understanding them better and being able to let them go. Very often our worries are simply imaginary. If we see them for what they are they lose power over us and we can be free of them.

Use Painting to Find Peace of Mind: Painting is one of many ways to develop mindfulness. It just happens to be the one method that has worked for me. Many artists that I have met over time say the same thing. So I hope you will forgive my esoteric essay, but if it does encourage you to pick up a paint brush and ease your worries then I am happy.

Your Habits Determine Your Nature

Have you heard the term: Thought are Things? Of course you cannot pick up a thought, but thoughts create your existence. This idea suggests that your thoughts have a direct impact on our emotions and behavior.

By actively choosing to have positive thoughts, you can create a positive outlook on life and influence your emotions in a positive way.

This in turn can lead to a change in your nature, as your thoughts and emotions shape your actions and reactions.

It's important to note that this is not always easy, as negative thoughts can creep in and be difficult to shake. However, with practice and mindfulness, you can train yourself to focus on the positive and make it a habit.

It also includes being aware of the thoughts that come to your mind and actively taking control of them, rather than letting them control you.

If changing your thoughts are so important can you provide some tried and tested practices to make this adjustment easier? Well since you have asked, here are a few:

Tips on Making the Change from Negative to Positive Habits:

Mindfulness: Being mindful of your thoughts and emotions can help you become aware of when negative thoughts are creeping in. Take a moment to pause and observe your thoughts, rather than getting caught up in them;

Reframe: When you notice a negative thought, try to reframe it in a more positive light. For example, instead of thinking I'm not good enough, try thinking I can improve and get better with practice.

Practice gratitude: Focusing on the things you're grateful for can shift your focus away from negative thoughts and towards positive ones. Try keeping a gratitude journal where you write down a few things you're grateful for each day.

Challenge negative thoughts: When you have a negative thought, ask yourself if it's based on fact or if it's just a negative belief you have. If it's not based on fact, try to challenge it and come up with a more positive thought.

Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce stress and improve mood, which can in turn reduce negative thoughts.

Surround yourself with positivity: Surrounding yourself with positive people, quotes, images and other uplifting influences can help counteract negative thoughts.

Seek professional help: