sketchbook ~ the art of discipline

but did you know?
… they don’t necessarily come ‘naturally’ ~

even more importantly, did you know…

“the narrow gate”  ~ watercolor card

… they are disciplines? 

bear with me in delving into the nuances of the word “discipline” pretty please?  typically, we tend to view discipline  as a harsh punishment. however, websters dictionary, in the fullness of the definition, describes it as: 

~ instruction.
~ a field of study
~ training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties, or moral character
~ control gained by enforcing {i say reinforcing} obedience or order
~ orderly or a prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior
~ self-control
~ a rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity

the making. building. learning. perfecting, and creating of anything ~ {like art} ~ is a discipline. truly and surely just as each of us breathes oxygen!  

it isn’t as much a matter of “talent” ~ but of habit.  willingness. study, time, and patience. {yes, definitely patience!}

the art of creating is a many-splendored {and disciplined} thing!  

ongoing mixed media sunflower

i have found the daily practice of a craft, in finding and relying on a working knowledge, building upon a basic rudimentary skill, {no matter what you do} is what makes it more of a discipline ~ and many times, turns it into an exploration.  do you love it?  {that certainly helps ~ but is not required}.  do you naturally gravitate towards something?  probably. that’s a key, for sure. 

but anyone… can learn to do almost anything.  we definitely have our strengths… but most of it is {cultivating} a discipline. think of it as planting seeds…

just as pertinent and applicable in art, as it is in a relationship with God, prayer time, our friends, or a work ethic. 

and i emphasize the word:  developing ~ {aka discipline}.

i never thought i could draw, much less do a simplistic watercolor.  but i enjoy it… not because i practice, but because i’ve cultivated it… it may not go much farther.  

and that’s okay.  there is much joy in just trying.  in discovery. but there is {more} ~ way more… to enjoy in the discipline. 

as with everything, in all we do ~ art, work, or discipline… just begin.  

and do it the best you can.

blessings on your weekend!
xo
leslie