Mood Boards

I was playing around on the internet this morning and came across the term "mood board", a term I was unfamiliar with.  So, intrigued, I went looking.  I discovered that it is basically what I refer to as an inspiration collage, but with a more focused purpose.

I've used this before to collect home decor ideas,

or color inspiration for paintings.

It occurred to me that this could be a great tool for art idea generation.  So I gave it a try.

I've been wanting to move towards fiber as a medium in my artwork.  I haven't had any clear ideas for what I wanted; I just get random images flitting across my brain, of textures and threads.  The mood board idea really worked, and fast.  I pulled out my magazines, and with the thought of fibers, started looking for pictures that inspired me.  Before long, more cohesive ideas started forming in my head.  I know where I'm headed now.  Of course the next step will be to sketch out some designs.

Do you have an idea you're working on, but need a jump start?  Try this!  Pull out your magazines and catalogues and just start looking for images that draw you to them.  Things to look for, and include on your board, are color palattes, textures, shapes, effects of light and shadow, or just any image that you can't stop looking at.  I added in a piece of vintage crochet, some thread, and paisley fabric.  There are no rules (I love not having rules!!).

This is the kind of thing I can do all day long, and did!  I started on this this morning, only taking a couple breaks for lunch and shower.  Next thing I knew it was 3:00pm!!  But, I managed to get some great ideas.  I had to put some pictures aside for the next project.

Now I need some of those little white plastic rings.  I don't know where to get them; the fabric store maybe?