Trash trucks and priorities.
Fine Art Friday #43
You know the sound—that low rumble, the unmistakable squeal of brakes, and the metallic clang of a trash can being hoisted into a truck. It was 6 a.m., and I was half-asleep, enjoying that blissful state between dreams and full consciousness, when it hit me: The trash cans aren’t out.
Cue panic mode.
In what can only be described as a moment of survival instinct, I leapt out of bed, threw on a coat over my pajamas, and bolted outside. Did I have shoes on? No. There wasn’t time. Was I barefoot? Unfortunately for my feet, yes.
The air was so cold it could’ve slapped the sleep right out of me. My breath puffed in clouds as I dragged one trash can after another to the curb. I don’t know if my neighbors were watching, but if they were, they got quite the show—a pajama-clad madwoman, hair flying, doing a 50-yard dash with a trash can.
By the time the truck made it to my house, I was victorious. The cans were out, my fingers were numb, and I was questioning all my life choices. But hey, the trash was gone, and that’s what mattered.
Where’s the Art in This?
Art is a lot like that 6 a.m. trash truck scramble. It’s messy, sometimes rushed, and definitely not glamorous. There are days when you’re freezing, running on fumes, and questioning why you’re doing it at all. But at the end of it? You’ve made something happen.
Even the most mundane moments can hold a little creative spark. And sometimes, just like that last-minute dash to the curb, the process of creating is all about showing up, even when it’s hard.
Art Tip of the Week: Work With What You’ve Got
If you’re stuck in your creative process, don’t overcomplicate it. Just start where you are and use what you have. Limited supplies? Lean into the challenge and let it guide your creativity. That scrap of paper or leftover paint can become something incredible if you let it.
And remember, even if your creativity feels like a 6 a.m. scramble in the cold, it’s worth it. You’re still showing up, and that’s what counts.
PS: Don’t forget—portraits are on sale this week or SUBSCRIBE as a FOUNDING MEMBER and you get a painting as my gift to you, the POSITANO SWEATSHIRT (in blue jean, obvs), is what I LIVE IN, and I’m making some new candles! If you want some, grab them so they’ll be there in time for Valentine’s Day! Check them out the shop. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find something to spark your creativity (or solve your last-minute gift dilemma).
Now, go make something beautiful. Just maybe put on shoes first.
LOOKING FOR HELP WITH YOUR ART FOR YOUR HOME?!
I'm currently booking commissions and live events for 2025 – click here to inquire about custom commissions! Or if you'd rather find something already made, check out my latest art collections at The Scouted Studio.
PHOTO TO PAINTING MINI COMMISSION
Thanks for reading today's edition of the Stories I Only Tell My Friends newsletter! & if you're new here—hi! I'm Courtney, fine artist and live wedding painter, honored to paint beautiful celebrations around the 🌎. I'd love for you to stick around and subscribe to keep reading one art tip, once a week. :)