Embracing Stillness
Thoughts on Wintering for Artists
Dear Artist,
As the world outside slows down, wrapped in the quiet of winter, I find myself drawn into the stillness. The rush of the year softens, leaving room to pause, to breathe, to simply be.
For artists, this can feel unfamiliar. We are often reaching, stretching, making. Our minds and hands constantly in motion, creating worlds around us. Working in the realm of imagination is not for the faint hearted. I know. But as the earth rests, so too must we. Stillness is not absence—no…not so. Stillness is full presence. It is the quiet moment before inspiration strikes, the space where ideas germinate, tiny seedlings waiting to be nurtured.
In this season of rest, I invite you to embrace the stillness as part of your creative process. Sit with the blank canvas, tend to your creative tools. No need to produce, assemble or fill. Allow your thoughts to wander while you sip tea or coffee by the window. Notice rays of sunlight falling in new patterns outside. Observe how the leaves that have descended from the trees lay there…wanting nothing. Stillness speaks in textures and tones. It teaches us to listen. It reminds is that creativity doesn’t always demand action—it also thrives in the quiet spaces where we reflect and dream.
This month, I’ve been reflecting on my own relationship with stillness. I used to think that if I wasn’t constantly making art, I wasn’t an artist. But art is always on my mind, ruminating and pacing along my neurons. So, I must account for these moments of deep consideration of my making as art itself. These instances of contemplation, musings and perspective are just as vital as brush strokes, paint splatters and pencil marks.
As you move through these colder days, I encourage you to be gentle with yourself and your art. Here are a few simple ways I am embracing the stillness in this creative season. I hope you’ll join me:
Journaling for Clarity: Write down thoughts, dreams or ideas without judgement. Let the pen flow, even if it feels aimless.
Observing the World: Spend a quiet moment noticing colors, shapes, or textures in your environment.
Sketching without a goal: Create without the pressure of “finishing”. Let the act of making be enough.
Reflecting on your Journey: Look back at the year and recognize how far you’ve come. Celebrate even small victories.
Remember, stillness is not stagnation. It is where we gather strength for the seasons to come.
Wishing you peace, warmth and inspiration.
With Care,
Wren