Kids want boundaries. In fact they thrive within boundaries. I believe that we ALL need boundaries in our lives to have healthy, happy lives. When there are no boundaries we can feel overwhelmed, insecure, unsafe, and uncertain.

When I was in art class in high school I remember the projects my teacher would give us... Draw this still life, copy this photo, paint this landscape, sketch this figure. Every assignment was constructed within some sort of boundary. Within these boundaries I felt such a sense of freedom, and with less options for choices I was seldomly overwhelmed.

I have always loved Art Nouveau and, recently, I have been trying to infuse some of the characteristics of Art Nouveau into my work. After countless hours of pouring myself over Art Nouveau books I have been able to really understand all of the things that makes Art Nouveau what it is. One of the things that is used repeatedly in Art Nouveau designs are circles. I have tried incorporating circles in my work recently and I am LOVING the freedom it is giving me. For some reason the rectangle shape of a piece of paper does NOT give me that same sense of freedom. This circle has become my boundary within the realm of art. I tend to get overwhelmed by a blank canvas or sheet of paper, and having to begin a piece of art starting with a circle has really helped! When I decided to add the circle element, I had no idea that it would become a beautiful boundary for me, but it has!

Some inspirational art nouveau pieces...