I was out walking the dog this week, my usual route, down the uneven road, towards the forest and across the fields. If you know me, you’ll know being outside in nature is my happy place. I took my own advice and just stopped, paused and observed to be in the present moment. I used my eyes to really look around. Used my nose to smell the fresh air. As I looked around, I noticed the vibrant colors surrounding me. Beautiful nature at its best, generously showing me hundreds if not thousands of colors. Nature was transforming in front of my eyes. Here in the UK we are fast approaching Autumn. The nature that surrounds me is changing; leaves dropping off the trees and the color transformations are breathtaking. The colors are also a great inspiration for color palettes. I’m a huge fan of nature and nature itself is a major inspiration for my Art. Can you relate? 

It also struck me how we transform as artists. We transform all of the time, just like the Seasons. The more we paint and create we gain experience, we refine our skills, we open up our creativity to new things and new ideas. Some things come to an end, and we move onto something else that interests us. Whether it’s a new technique, a palette, or even a new medium to create with. We are all just like nature. We can live in the present moment, and the changes that occur can really help us transform and evolve. And also survive. 

Next time you go outside, just stop for a moment and take the advantage of really looking around at your surroundings. What do you see? What can you smell? What can you see and feel changing around you? Now think about you and your Art - have you changed your style, improved your skills? I bet the answer is yes - and just like the seasons, you will forever adapt, evolve and grow. 

Check out Mark’s course on Smart Art Courses: Mindfully Creative: Art Techniques for the Mind, Body and Soul https://www.smartartcourses.com/art-for-mindfulness 

Mark J Ratcliffe Art has his own YouTube channel where he demonstrates fluid art, abstract art and mindfulness. You can find him here: https://www.youtube.com/markjratcliffeart