Discovering Project Ideas Through Other Art Forms

Art is a very connected medium. I've discussed other inspirational art forms before, though now I'd like to dive a bit deeper. When I create, it's never solely about the garment, I have to have a deeper purpose behind it. What message am I trying to get across? What emotions do I want to convey? Of course, I want what I make to look nice, but if I want to elevate it, there must be a bit more to it all.

I love music and when I crochet I sometimes listen to my favorite albums or I'll have a song in my head. Some of the best ideas have come when I've been listening to music & doing something besides crocheting. An idea will just come to my mind without any effort on my part and it keeps building until I'm ready to create it. That's why I believe that even when I'm not working on my craft, I still am.

Beautiful lyrics move me in very profound ways. The best artists can conjure up imagery that evokes a wide array of emotions, and I try to bring that into my handmade creations. For example, I often make floral, vintage garments that have whimsical elements, & some have been inspired by indie music artists with a flair for descriptive language. Identifying my emotions before I start projects helps the process.

Characters from TV shows and movies have a similar effect on me as well. Someone might be wearing crocheted garments in a period piece or I'll see a modern-day accessory & I'll think I could make something like that, & then I just go for it. I've also been inspired by real people & their fashion styles. It doesn't have to be in a direct way either, it can be more about the energy behind how certain people rock their eclectic looks like Zendaya & Florence Pugh. Characters & people can push you to try something new that you never would have before.

I've loved poetry for a very long time & it still remains an important part of my life. The words of Frieda Kahlo & Emily Dickinson (two of my favorite Creators) still reside within me. It's not that I base my specific projects on specific poems, but I try to convey the essence of the magic that other artists create in my own work. Appreciating other pieces of work is truly the best way to make your creations all the more great.