Art is an image-using system. In order to create, we draw from our inner well. This inner well -- an artistic reservoir -- is ideally like a well-stocked trout pond. We've got big fish, little fish, fat fish, skinny fish... an abundance of artistic fish to fry! As artists, we must realize that we have to maintain this pond, because if we don't it could become depleted, stagnant or dried up.

The creation of artwork draws heavily on our "pond" or "artistic well". Overfishing the pond leaves us with diminished resources, so we need to be conscious of stocking the pond. As artists, we must learn to become self-nourishing. We must constantly restock the trout pond -- or fill the well.

Filling the well involves the active (or incidental) pursuit of images to refresh and revive our artistic reservoir. The language of art is in the image and in the experience. When we work at our art, we dip into the well of our experience or memories and scoop out images. Because we do this, we need to learn how to put images back. This well will become a collection of visual images, experiences, writings, poems, photos, clippings, stamps, candy wrappers and so on. The possibilities are endless!

You'll be given an envelope to keep with your sketchbook or with you. Toss images and findings in for future use in your sketchbook. Use these to trigger your creativity!

Adapted from the "Artist's Way" and Laura Hill