My Bookish Resolutions (2023)
In 2023, I set five specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) book-related goals. I aimed to read all 36 unread books on my shelf, building on my success of reading 34 books in 2022. Second, I planned to complete the Wingbound trilogy by Heather Trim, with Wingspan slated for January. Third, I intended to create a cozy reading space by furnishing my living room, following a recent move. Fourth, I sought to acquire a new bookshelf to complement my desired mid-century modern or industrial-themed decor, repurposing the old one for bathroom storage. Lastly, I aspired to read a 2023 release early in the year, specifically highlighting 'Yellowface' by R.F. Kuang, and planned to review it promptly.
Experimentation Is Essential For Creators’ Growth (In Both Art and Writing)
Experimentation is essential for artists and writers to foster growth and maintain creativity. Engaging in various styles, themes, and mediums prevents stagnation and keeps work fresh and engaging. For instance, resin artists can incorporate materials like alcohol ink, watercolor, acrylics, glitter, or beads to achieve diverse effects. Similarly, painters and sculptors can explore different tools, colors, and techniques to expand their creative horizons. Likewise, writers can mix techniques that are characteristic of different genres to create stories that are refreshing and new. Embracing experimentation allows creators to discover new possibilities, refine their unique voice, and enhance their overall artistic practice.
8 Reasons Why Having A Creative Community Matters
Engaging with a writing community offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance a writer's journey. Firstly, it provides essential support, offering motivation and encouragement during challenging phases of the writing process. Secondly, such a community fosters accountability, helping writers adhere to their goals and deadlines. Thirdly, it serves as a valuable source of constructive feedback, enabling writers to refine their work through diverse perspectives. Fourthly, fellow writers can share practical advice, recommending resources like books, blogs, and workshops to aid development. Fifthly, writing communities often include readers who can offer insights from an audience's viewpoint, aiding in reaching and understanding one's target demographic. Sixthly, observing peers' progress and achievements can serve as inspiration, fueling one's own creativity and commitment. Seventhly, contributing to others' growth by offering feedback and support can be fulfilling and reinforce one's own skills. Lastly, being part of a writing community establishes a sense of belonging, connecting individuals with shared aspirations and challenges, thus enriching the overall writing experience.
Active Reading Vs. Passive Reading:Using Psychology-Based Critical Reading Skills To Increase Information Absorption & Retention
Active reading involves fully engaging with the material, critically analyzing concepts, and connecting new information to existing knowledge, thereby enhancing comprehension and retention. In contrast, passive reading, characterized by skimming or reading amidst distractions, often leads to superficial understanding. The first step to reading more actively is to review any questions related to the material before reading to identify key information. Second, read the passage multiple times, revisiting questions between each reading to reinforce understanding. Third, identify and define unfamiliar terms to prevent confusion. Fourth, summarize main ideas in the margins or in a notebook to reinforce comprehension. The fifth and final step is to mark important sections relevant to the reading objectives for easy reference. Implementing these techniques can transform reading into an active process, leading to better absorption and long-term retention of information.
Self Care Tips for Bookworms
Sometimes it’s hard being a writer—I get it. Sometimes we get writers’ block and sometimes we just don’t feel like pulling up to the computer and cranking out 1200 words a day for the month of November, or ever for that matter. Writing is hard. No matter how many times I say it, it doesn’t make the process any easier. Writing can be really, really, reeeeeally difficult sometimes. Most of the time, in fact. It’s a process that makes you swoon, cry, cringe, hyperventilate, and want to tear your hair out at every turn. It’s frustrating when you want to write but you just don’t feel motivated or inspired enough to do so. It’s frustrating when you feel motivated and inspired but you just don’t feel like writing.
Breathing New Life Into Humanities At Rose State College
A humanities mural project at Rose State College provided students with hands-on experience in public art, from research and planning to execution. The process involved consulting with local arts professionals, budgeting supplies, and presenting designs to a committee. The selected mural, created collaboratively by students, emphasized the role of public art in reflecting community values. The project not only beautified the campus but also deepened students’ understanding of public art’s impact.
Exploring Murals In Oklahoma: Where Public Art Is More Than Just Paint
Public art, particularly murals, plays a significant role in enhancing urban spaces and fostering community identity. In Oklahoma, the process of creating murals involves collaboration between artists, city officials, and property owners. Legal considerations, including the Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA), protect artists’ rights and ensure their work is respected. Additionally, partnerships with local organizations and educational institutions provide opportunities for aspiring artists to gain experience. This dynamic environment encourages artistic expression while promoting cultural appreciation.
7 Fun, Useful, Quirky, and Cute Non-Book Bookish Items
Here’s a bunch of fun, weird, non-book bookish things that you may not have heard of before!
I Visited The Full Circle Bookstore In Oklahoma City
I took my bestie on a bookish, friend date to the Full Circle Bookstore in OKC…
And we loved it.
Yeah, we’re hitting the ground running in Reader Life this week, because I just cannot wait to tell you all about it.
Neither me nor my best friend Allie have ever been to Full Circle before and needless to say, we a first-time FC converts, if there is such a thing. When we rolled up to the shop at the bottom of the 50 Penn Place building, we were greeted with a quaint little storefront, painted mint green and black with chalkboard signs and jazzy music playing softly from an outdoor speaker. We were already so excited, and we hadn’t even entered the building.
When Writing Becomes Difficult
I get it—trust me. I just came back from a writing hiatus and while I wish I didn’t take that time away from writing, it’s hard to picture me where I am now without it. So, as we get into it, let’s think of this as a group therapy session.
The Importance of Befriending Your Competition
Building relationships with competitors can provide significant benefits in any industry. Rather than viewing others as threats, collaborating and exchanging knowledge can lead to mutual growth. Competitors often offer valuable insights, opportunities for collaboration, and the potential for referrals when workloads overflow. Additionally, forming genuine connections fosters a supportive network where professionals can learn from one another’s successes and mistakes. This mindset encourages shared learning, resource exchange, and creative partnerships that benefit everyone involved.
Balancing Authenticity and Sensitivity: Self-Censorship in Modern Writing
Writers often grapple with the dilemma of self-censorship to avoid offending family members or even the broader public. Concerns about explicit content, offensive language, or themes deemed unsuitable for certain age groups frequently lead to challenges and bans, as noted by the American Library Association. This internal conflict raises critical questions about the importance of preserving artistic integrity versus mitigating potential backlash. Self-censorship can stifle creativity and result in an inaccurate portrayal of societal issues, politics, and cultural trends. Notable works like Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird and Kate Chopin’s “The Awakening" have faced bans but serve as essential reflections of their times. Ultimately, writers must weigh the value of honest storytelling against the desire to avoid controversy, considering the long-term implications of their choices on literature and society.
Making Space With Oklahoma Contemporary: Interview With Pablo Barrera
A mural series in Oklahoma City, called Making Space provides opportunities for emerging artists to collaborate with mentors and contribute to the city’s visual landscape. The project was developed as a way to maintain public engagement with art while Oklahoma Contemporary’s new arts center was under construction. Artists were selected based on style, diversity, and mentorship potential, with an emphasis on community representation. By pairing newer artists with established mentors, it fostered professional growth and artistic collaboration. The murals, displayed on temporary walls, brought vibrancy to the community while reflecting local culture and diverse perspectives. The initiative also encouraged public engagement with art, increasing visibility for underrepresented artists.
