Your Weekly Inspiration: Post 13 of 14
About the Author: Erynn Rice worked as an art teacher in Cincinnati, Ohio before deciding to stay home with her three children. Using her kids as inspiration, she has remained committed to pursuing her passion in art through writing and illustrating children’s books, painting, and children’s party planning.
At this point in my life, my inspiration for creativity revolves completely around my children. From stories and illustrations, to paintings and party planning, everything is inspired by my three little ones.
Recently, as I was in the check out lane at the store, my daughter was growing impatient sitting in the shopping cart. She began to whine, asking, “Will I EVER get out of here?” A silly conversation then began about what her life would be like if she was stuck in the car t forever. For me, it was the perfect inspiration for my next children’s book: My Life in a Shopping Cart. That evening, the story came to life on paper. (I have found that one of the most important parts of being creative is to JUST GO FOR IT when the inspiration strikes you. Don’t put it off… act on it while the idea is still fresh in your mind and keep the momentum going).
My kids are also a great source of inspiration for many of the oil paintings I create. While on a family trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan, my daughter skipped up a garden path toward our hotel, and I was overcome with inspiration to capture that image on canvas. Even the artwork I have created for my children’s bedrooms is inspired by their personalities and by what they are interested in. My daughter once said that she wanted to be a fairy when she grew up, so it made perfect sense to paint one to hang in her room.
As an avid children’s party planner, I’m always on the lookout for new inspiration for party ideas. Luckily, living in a house full of crazy kids who have ENORMOUS imaginations, I don’t have to look very far! My son’s pretend play has inspired awesome party ideas, from a “Happy Hoedown,” to an “All Aboard Bash,” and a “Pirate Parrrr-ty!” I do my best to set the stage for a party that will inspire children to immerse themselves in imaginative play.
With kids ages 7, 4, and 5 months, I’m sure I will have plenty of inspiration for more silly stories and illustrations, memorable paintings, and exciting parties in the years ahead.
