1. Use a free write to focus an idea for a project.  We used a word or a sentence as prompt and then wrote off the top of our heads for 10 minutes or so.  This is not something that I would usually do but I think it will come in handy for some upcoming projects.
2. Choose a small object to draw everyday.   Simply draw it, date it and file it away. Sas Colby did this with her “Bunny Series.”

I have a show of gelatin prints coming up in January and the theme is lost and found. I think I will use the free write to find some language to talk about the prints and the theme.  I have started drawing an old doll that I had as a kid.  She is in pretty rough shape, but I am committed to drawing her each morning.

 Okay so Haystack is really a whole experience not just one outstanding class, meal, lecture or accomodation.  Today when I was walking in the woods by the lake and putting a little “Haystack” in my day I started thinking about all the ways I could bring that Haystack experience into my days.  Here’s what I came up with so far.

1. Get up when the sun or cold wakes you up.

2. Eat good food at 8 AM , Noon, and 6PM

3. Don’t use the tv, telephone or internet or radio

4. Don’t talk on your cell phone around others or in your studio space

5. Listen to other artists talk about their art for 2 hrs a day

6. Use poetry and writing to give you a focus

7. Walk in the woods

8. Swim in the ocean

9. Sit by the sea

10. Sleep on a very firm twin bed

11. Eat Fruit or cookies anytime you feel like it

12. Be in your studio at set times like 9-12 or 1-4

13. Find an art friend and talk about your process/project

14. Work less and make art more

15. Make your art your priority (in some way/at some time)

16. Drink water instead of soda

17. Put your name on your beer

18. Share wine at supper with your friends

19. Eat 3 healthy veggies at lunch and dinner

20. Be open to learning from everyone you meet today