Issue #3 - Creating Temenos

"Temenos" is the Greek idea of sacred space, that is, a magic circle in which special rules apply and within which extraordinary events are free to occur.

When first I came across this concept, the connections were inescapable. The paper is the sacred space! Here there are "no mistakes" and harsh judgments may be suspended. These kind of "rules" allow sponateous play and give us a place where we can just be.


1. Choose A Better Space

Where we do creative play needs to be free from the eyes and interruptions of others. Even family and friends who care about us may offer well-meaning comments that do not support the level of exploration we are seeking. Solitude and quiet are rare gifts to the process of self-discovery. Screen off a corner or convert a closet. The space can be created in time by working when no one is at home or before anyone is up.


2. Create A Routine

Schedule a time you will visit this space regularly. Make it a second home. In the last issue of "Brush Strokes" we discussed the value of adding ritual to routine, lighting a candle or saying a mantra. Creativity, like any discipline, must be practiced. These is no such thing as waiting for inspiration but you can prepare the ground and invite it in.


3. Quiet the Mind

The mind is on an endless mission of errands. To-do lists fill our days with the minutia of life. Pick up the dry cleaning. Get the kids to school. Call so and so. Buddhists call it the "monkey mind" that chatters on and on. Creativity needs space inside as well as out. Here's a way to clear the clutter...


4. Just Breathe

Sitting upright in a chair, begin your studio time with a few cleansing breaths. Close your eyes and take a deep breath, in through the nose reaching down from a relaxed belly. Let it out through the mouth, slow and measured. Do this at least three times. Follow with normal breathing, keeping eyes closed and your mind blank. If thoughts intrude bring your concentration back by counting breaths.


5. Limber Up

Now that you have created some inner space begin with something that allows you to stay loose and unfettered by expectation.Whether your studio time is designated for spontaneous exploration or projects that need results, warming up this way provides support necessary for innovation to occur. While musicians practice scales and dancers work out at the bar, improvisation needs regular exercise as well.


6. Meander

A painting journal is a great warm-up tool. It is in each tiny spontaneous mark that we nurture flexibility and risk-taking. Use an art tool that flows, marker, felt tip pen or better still a brush and ready-to-use paint cakes. Let your brush wander around the paper as if on a mysterious journey. Create imaginary paths, pools and islands without the demands of making anything realistic. Don't "make" anything - just allow for whimsey and flow and even...fun!