Ideas on how to foster creativity by artist Linda Cote.

1) Failure is a good thing.

Linda Cote embraces failure. This is but one gem of wisdom the print making artist shared with me, on a recent visit, over banana bread and tea at her studio in Canmore, Alberta, Canada.

She explained that the biggest learning from her art and creative print making is what is important is not so much what she makes, but what she learns through the process of making; the learning of how to let go of failure and move on and keep creating.

2) Follow your passion.

Trained as a journalist, Linda always had a passion for art, but was never able to pursue it fully. It has been in the last five years she has been ‘pressing  ink’ full time. Nothing like doing what you were designed to do.

Her studio, with a magnificent view of the Rocky mountains, serves as the epicenter of her artistic world.  It is here that she carves images either in wood or on a lino base (material that is reminiscent of linoleum flooring), applies ink to a glass top surface, rolls the ink on a roller and then applies the ink with the roller to the lino base image.

3) Collaborate

After careful positioning of the paper on top, and pressing the paper so the ink adheres to the paper, Linda  ‘pulls’ of the soon-to-be card or print off the lino base. Each time a card or print is made, ink must be reapplied. To experience the process yourself, you will want to visit Linda’s YouTube channel where you will see her art making process come to life.

Sometimes Linda will organize an “Artist play date” with other artists and they will spend a day working in a medium they don’t normally work in. This experience has fueled new projects, new art, and the exchange of ideas that would never have happened alone in the studio.

 4) Make an ‘Inspiration Wire.’

As I enjoyed Linda’s hospitality, my eye was drawn to what appeared to be a clothes line hung on her wall.  More than just a conversation piece, this ‘inspiration wire’ is where Linda will hang things that inspire her.

Pictures of family, special mementos of friends, cards and letters, or whatever she finds moves her that particular day. I say ‘day’ because this wire is ever changing in its makeup.  Linda removes things, switches it around, adds something new.  It is not a stagnant wire collecting dust; rather it is vibrant and full of colour and ever changing.

Sort of like Linda herself.

5) Try it

Should you want to give print making a try or show the kids what it is all about, Linda provides easy directions using materials all available at the dollar store for you to get started.

I treated myself and bought one of Linda’s beautiful prints called “Rockies Ski Day.”   I have sent off several of her cards in the past too…that is, if I can part with them.

What tips do you have about fostering creativity? Have you ever tried print-making before?