I've been reading the book The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp, and I've been struck by its thesis is that creativity, like athleticism or academics, requires as much dilligent, regular practice as it does inspiration and natural talent. It's a simple realization that led me to pick up Studio Life, a volume of engaging essays and vivid photos featuring the work process and spaces of over 200 artists.
This fascinating book has so many fun takeaways. If you have hoarding tendencies, you'll definitely identify with the painters, sculptors, and ceramicists who have lined the walls of their studios with inspirational ephemera collected over the course of years, sometimes decades. And anyone who loves a peek behind the curtains—I mean, who doesn't?—will be delighted to see where some of the country's most forward-thinking creatives make their magic.
My favorite gem is this thought from Illinois artist Michelle Grabner: "If you're not having fun, there's no point; you have to keep things in perspective." Because all of us, artists or accountants, need that perspective. Not every day can be an absolute blast, but if you've gone too long without a good laugh, it's probably time to put the pencil down and hit the playground—whatever that might look like to you.
Images of Studio Life by Sarah Trigg, taken by me.