Avoiding Negativity

Before I proceed with new material regarding book projects and music, I want to take a minute to clarify a stance I've developed over the past four years. The stance is this: that negativity in any shape or form does nothing to inspire, cultivate, and promote tasteful art and good feelings. When you turn on a TV around 8 or 9 o'clock every weeknight, it seems that there is some kind of program, or numerous movie ads, or made-for-TV movies, that glorify violence, dysfunction, and general discontent. I absolutely refuse to become involved with any such programs. I understand it is entertainment. But why is there a profuse amount of this type of stuff, and such a dearth of uplifting and fun shows? I guess these kinds of programs don't sell. I really wish that America would let go of its infatuation with violence and embrace the kindness and compassion.

So I've been living my life as free from negativity as possible, avoiding all media that exudes negativity. I am even in the process of removing music from my iPod that I once enjoyed, but now just can't listen to anymore because of negative and/or depressing lyrics. I feel somewhat silly divulging this stuff to you readers, but this is just what was in my heart to talk about tonight. I wanted to kind of let this be known. Positivity and light will be the impetus of my experiences in artistic creativity.

Ideas...

I've been thinking recently as to how to go about creating a children's book I've had in mind for the past few months. I'll ask myself a question or two, like "how can I make this truly unique?," or "what kind of medium should I use for the artwork?" These are the kinds of things that need to be carefully planned to create a book that is as close to your original idea as possible. Then again, funny things happen when you begin a creative adventure, believe me. For instance, last spring, when I started making new songs for a "folk rock" record, I began by recording a couple of folk rock tunes. A few weeks later, I was putting some simple jazz chords together and making songs. This is what makes creating something so fun, the unpredictability that can show up at any time. Now, I'm trying to figure out how I can tie in the music record with the book. It is a challenge that I welcome.

Hello!

Hello everyone! Thanks for checking in. My purpose with this blog is to spark dialogue and response concerning all things considered "art," and to hopefully inspire people to explore creativity as a pathway to enlightenment, positivity, and forward thinking. At different points, I'll have sub-blogs for music, visual art, poetry/literature, and crafting. As someone who enjoys writing music, lyrics, and playing guitars, I am really interested in seeing the talents and ideas of other people. Sharing ideas and learning from one another is something that I see as invaluable and invigorating on and artistic and creative level.