Holiday Art Ideas

Happy Holidays

Pen & Watercolor
©Jill Jeffers Goodell

This is probably the weirdest Christmas holiday I've ever encountered. Instead of going out to shop for presents, visit our favorite holiday haunts or see family and friends, we're hunkered down. Traditionally, the holiday season is one of my favorite because of the activities--church choirs, cookie exchanges, dinner plans, decorations and simply the hustle and bustle  of the time. It's always been magical for me.

I've never experienced a dichotomy such as this. On one hand, we're trying to celebrate and on the other, we find ourselves mourning. As I write this newsletter thousands of souls are losing their lives and others are battling this unholy medical war. 

While praying for peace on earth and goodwill toward men, we are now including prayers for all the medical front-liners, the people who have lost their jobs and those who are facing unimaginable financial crises in the coming months. This is the year to be most grateful for what we have, although frankly I can't wait to see it go.

Whenever I face anxious circumstances from cancer to political uncertainty, I head for my studio. It's a time to be creative. It doesn't matter what subject or medium I use. I just need to pour my heart and soul into creating something that wasn't there before. 

Soft pastel ©Jill Jeffers Goodell

I seem to enter a zone where my troubles seem to vanish. Also, I try to keep the critic at bay. I just let loose and do it. Surprisingly, it works.

Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. Thomas Merton

Pen & Watercolor
©Jill Jeffers Goodell

With that in mind, I'd like to suggest spending some time on art this season. Below you will find a list of ideas, along with some websites that may help along the way. Not only is this good for you, but through Zoom, you can share the experience with other artists, friends, nieces, nephews, grandchildren or even the kid across the street. Think of it as your way to spread the holiday cheer.

Sixteen holiday subjects

An angel

Santa Clause

Reindeer

Snowman

Skates/sleds

Stockings

Ornaments and lights

Gingerbread men/house

Tree

Presents

Bells

Holly

Wreath

Toys

Candy Cane

Fir/Pine Cone

Soft Pastel ©Jill Jeffers Goodell

Some sites for ideas