Mastery Monday: Everyday Objects

Six gentle art exercises finding creativity in the ordinary

How are we in May already?! I do love May, as everything has life and energy. The Hawthorn flowers are bursting to life here in the UK, and I have already been out picking them to make a lovely little brew. I have patiently photographing the bees, in eager to capture a picture that I can recreate into a painting. It is lovely just strolling and watching the world go by - being very present.

In Mastery Monday, we are slowing things down and finding creativity in the ordinary around your space. The key is to observe. The art of seeing - I feel - is becoming distant due to the busyness of life. Flitting here and there, and being bombarded with information on TV and the internet - it make us almost glaze over life. I, for one, sometimes have to remind myself to slow down. I read this week, that our bodies don’t actually cope with the speed we live at - until it forces us to! Usually through illness.

So, this is your permission to slow down, observe and draw.

You don’t need anything special. It could be just a simple object from your home or garden. A mug, your keys, a plant or flower, a pair of scissors… something you see everyday but might not really take the time to look at.

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What Mastery Monday Offers

Over the month, you’ll move through six gentle steps that build on one another, helping you reconnect with your creativity in a way that feels grounded, intentional and deeply personal. The six activities include:

1. Artist Exploration: A quiet moment to study another artist’s work, gather ideas, and let something spark.

2. Elements of Art: A focused look at one element (line, shape, space, value, colour, texture and form) to deepen your understanding.

3. Skill Practice: A simple, focused exercise that lets you explore the materials and build confidence through creating art.

4. Observational Study: Slowing down to really see something and translating that into marks.

5. Create: Bringing everything together in a finished piece that reflects this month’s theme.

6. Journal: A gentle reflection on what felt good, what surprised you and what you’d like to explore next.

This is your chance to ignite your creativity, imagination and curiosity without the intimidation of a blank canvas. It’s time to reignite your artistic spirit!

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Overview

Theme Focus: Everyday Objects

Art Form Focus: Drawing

Elements of Art Focus: Shape

Resources Needed:

• A range of graded pencils e.g. 2H to 6B

• Eraser

• Sharpener

• Paper or sketchbook

• Everyday objects from your home or garden, such as flowers, mug, stones, etc.