Getting Over the Fear of Not Having The Perfect Image

Another tendency that a few folks have is to save their focal images or their supplies until they can find the "perfect page, perfect project, etc...."

My question for you to think about is how do you not know that the page you are working on at this very moment isn't the perfect page, the one that calls for you to use the favorite image or special pen or last piece of tape RIGHT NOW? 

I find that when I am working with my materials, I tend to sort through my collage ephemera quickly. I pull the first focal image and the first pieces of background paper that appeals to me at that moment. It helps me avoid spending hours looking for something that's "just right" and keeps me from falling into the trap of saving my focal images for the "perfect page" (whatever that may be.) 

I used to make color copies of my images before I used them. That expense adds up quickly. Now I only make color copies if I am absolutely in love with the images that are on both sides of the page AND if I feel like dragging my rear to the copy shop. Instead, I decided a long time ago that I can make copies of my pages AFTER I use the images IF I want to reuse the images again. 

I also got over the fear of using up my most precious supplies awhile back when I quickly realized that there is almost always something else available to take its place.

Again, all of this is what works best for me.

What? Did I just hear someone say, "What if I can't find the perfect focal images?" Yes, you can. I have listed my sources here. In 2013, there's no excuse for folks not to be able to find things that they want to use in their own private journals. A quick google image search will come up with virtually any subject matter that you are looking for. I encourage folks to go through books and magazines, take your own photos if you want and paste what you are most drawn to in your books. 

Finding your favorite images won't come over night. It takes work and effort. Also, keep in mind that your tastes WILL change.

I've been keeping visual journals for over sixteen years now and my tastes have changed greatly. I have built up what I call my visual vocabulary, images that I am drawn towards (right now) that I can use to represent me (more on that here.) Open up your journals and make note of what things you are drawn towards. What colors and imagery do you use repeatedly? When you see the work of others what is it about their work that draws you in that you can take and glean for yourself?

Try not to beat yourself up when you look at others pages. "My work doesn't look like so and so." You don't want you work to look like anyone else made it but YOU. 

What's the point in making artwork then if you could buy prints or pieces from the artist you are comparing your work to? 

Crack open your journal, take that favorite piece of paper that you've been hoarding, I mean saving, for years now and use it. Find your most precious focal image and glue it down. MAKE IT WORK. Don't be afraid to use it up. Don't be like Mom with the China cabinet full of the most precious dishes that are only used for special occasions and never end up being used at all. Use it. You can't take it with you.

Added 2 March 2013: You may find this post helpful where I talk about my process as I collage (picking papers, etc...)