While I don’t consider myself an artist, I do consider myself a “project person”. I enjoy having projects to work on, whether to reenergize my mind, get relief from everyday stresses, or just play with a new skill set. Most of the time I stay focused long enough to see it through, although I’ve found my rate of completion often depends on whether I have dedicated time to work on my project.

A few years ago I took an oil painting class and while I had every good intention of continuing my exploration of still life objects after the eight sessions, when I wasn’t going to class every week the easel started collecting dust. And how often do I pick up the paintbrush these days? Well…not too often. Maybe this means I should get my butt back into an oil painting class or maybe it was just my preferred deviation from the everyday at that time.

As fall approaches I feel ready to head back to school…soft of. I’m trying to decide what art or other creative class to sign up for this quarter.

Knowing I’ll have dedicated time, a creative environment, and a new project gives me the push I need to turn in my registration form. I may enter the classroom at the end of the day dragging my feet, but will leave feeling energized. There is also something invigorating about being surrounded by other “project people” who are trying to get their creative juices flowing.

When I took the oil painting class we were all looking at the same table arrangement, but it was fascinating to wander through the easels and see the variety of perspectives chosen by my classmates. These days I’ve been tinkering with woodworking and as a novice it is very encouraging to see the projects being done by individuals with more advanced router and table saw skills. I guess that’s what keeps me coming back (or maybe it’s the Dick’s drive-in near the wood shop).

Of course it is also satisfying to leave class with a finished product. Last fall I took Janet Foley’s Fused Glass Gift Making class (see image of me below or class description at http://www.artscouncilofsnoco.org/education/comartclass.htm). I made a set of coasters, which turned into a good Christmas gift for a friend. This type of class provides a fun, relaxing environment and quick gratification when you pick up your completed plate, vase, or coasters in a just a few short weeks.

Maybe I’ll end up taking more than one class. At least I still have a little time left to make my decision.

Working on my coasters