As a young art student I would spend afternoons sitting on various floors at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, sketching, reading, contemplating.

My favorite place to sit and ponder all that was and all that could be was the Brancusi exhibit. There was, and still is, something magical and meditative to me about his work. The Kiss, Madame Progeny, his eponymous Bird in Space…his work has always spoken to me in a deep way. I was beyond giddy to visit the replication of his atelier when I went to Paris a few years ago.

I have read several of Brancusi’s writings, as well as commentary about him from a variety of art historians and critics. Of his own words, there are many statements I have reflected on, and often keep in mind the statement:

“Things are not difficult to make; what is difficult is putting ourselves in the state of mind to make them.” - Constatin Brancusi

I’ve been reminded of this sentiment often in the last severals days. The run up to the holidays, the holiday break, and then getting back into the thick of things work-wise (and school-wise) has made focusing on starting something new a challenge. In fact, I’ve started several somethings new, but finding traction on any of the ideas floating around in my head has been a challenge.

Right now I’m looking at six newly cast on projects. Also three completed ones that need photographing. And two finished items that have drafted patterns to complete and edit.

I could work on any of these things. But instead my state of mind says “Eh. Let’s go get another cup of coffee and read that Selbu Mittens book you got for Christmas”.

The coffee is delicious this morning ;)

Atelier Brancusi, Paris | Places you can knit