One of the questions I get asked most about gelli printing is:
“Yes… but what do you DO with them all?”
I always find it a little puzzling. Why isn’t spending time making art just for the fun of it, seen as enough?
There’s often an unspoken rule that creativity must be productive or have a clear outcome. As if simply playing with paint and paper is somehow “wasting” time or supplies.
But really, what do you have to show for it when you go to the movies or take a walk?
Thankfully, things are shifting. Doctors are now writing “social prescriptions” encouraging people to get involved with fitness, the arts, or volunteering, because research shows it can support mental health, reduce chronic disease risk, and even help with dementia.
In the same way, I encourage you to approach art as play. Let go of the need to create a perfect, finished piece. Personally, the more intent I become on “bringing a painting to its completion” the harder it is to get there.
Recently, I found myself stuck in that familiar spot: fighting with a piece that wasn’t working.
Fortunately, I realized what was happening (yet again) and put the piece to one side. Then, I grabbed a few bits of paper, some gelli prints, scraps, napkins, ephemera, and just played.
To my surprise, that simple act of letting go helped me shift direction.
It was fun, spontaneous, low pressure creating.
I ended up adding a bird to the collage and really love the result.
So, what do you love to do when there’s no pressure?
- Scribble with crayons?
- Splash paint?
- Pour colors and watch them drip?
- Tear paper and collage it together?
- All of the above?
I really encourage you to let yourself play, consider this as your permission slip!
Remember, you can tag me on social media @chakramandalas on Instagram or HealingChakraMandalas on Facebook. I also have a Facebook Group called Gelli Plate Fun, where you are welcome to join, share pictures and ask questions.
Happy creating!
