Freeform flow

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​an endearing pursuit of pen and ink on watercolor,
a treasured creative practice,
​and a meditation on form and fine lines. ​

I make an arbitrary brushstroke with water and slowly add color to the stain, watching it diffuse according to its own nature. Releasing expectation of what will come and surrendering to the discovery, I watch forms emerge unconsciously and spontaneously. Mistakes become obsolete. Once the paint dries, I return to the image with ink and outline the gradation of color. I am comforted by the lack of definition in the abstract imagery as well as the containment provided by the dark outline. Tracing the colors requires the focus of my gaze and the steadiness of my hand, but otherwise my mind is open. Without having to think about the composition, my attention is free to witness what arises to the surface as a result of mood or my uninhibited stream of consciousness.    I consider art a way of being,  not an achievement. When  creative spirit is present, I am curious  and guided!

Won't you please join me in the simple pleasures of creative play??

The collection of paintings here  hold stories that are ready  to emerge! The colors  have shapes and symbols to show you in the making of a unique composition. Click an image below to download or print. Use a pen or marker (or a drawing app) to outline any shapes that attract your attention.

​Discover and explore!
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Here is some   inspiration  ... and please !please! please share your renderings with The Art of Shmee
​I would love to see them!!
​on   Instagram @shmeereverie  or e-mail at [email protected] !

Flow is a concept termed by Mihlay Csikszentmihalyi in his book, Beyond Boredom and Anxiety: Experiencing Flow in Work and Play. This blissful state of consciousness can be accessed in any activity where a person “loses” themself in the action. When skill level meets challenge, a simultaneous state of relaxation and arousal is evoked. It is a balanced state between enjoyment and concentration, where attention is high but effortless. I also see flow state as a steady rhythm between the mechanisms of the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic branches of the Autonomic Nervous System. ​Based on my own experiences of a flow state, I describe this kinetic homeostasis as both grounding and transpersonal. I am presently engaged in the activity while also feeling connected to something outside of myself. In these moments, my breath is regulated and my focus is relaxed and intent. I feel safe, calm, and in pleasure.