Creativity Prompt: The Power of Listening

My partner is a musician, which means I'm introduced to genres I would never discover on my own. And honestly? It's been a total game-changer for my painting.

I've found myself closing my eyes and really listening. It's peeling back layers – the deep, grounding pulse of the bass, the way harmonies intertwine, the sharp, percussive pops, and then that driving melody that ties it all together. It got me thinking... how do I bring that same layered experience to my canvas?

I'm using this listening exercise in the studio -- you may find it inspiring too.

🌟 Hit Play: Put on a piece of music – something that moves you, or just tune into the sounds around your studio. Close your eyes and listen to the layers.

🌟 Let Your Hand Dance: Move freely across your canvas or paper. Don't think too much, let the rhythm and energy guide your gestures.

🌟 Layer It Up: As the music shifts and changes, respond with new layers of color and marks. Think of each layer of sound having its own visual voice on your piece.

This simple practice can unlock new ways of seeing (or rather, hearing) and translating that onto the canvas. It's less about depicting the music literally and more about capturing its feeling and structure through abstract forms.

Beverly Todd

B. Todd. Arts | Santa Fe Artist Getaway