Working in series is usually an involved process in terms of both time and focus. Artists are often known for series that explore ideas in a sustained, deep way. But the intriguing aspects working in series can also happen in a quicker, more spontaneous way, with a new piece each day. Today we’ll look at working in series with a sketchbook, or using other small or quick formats, and explore how this can be an important part of an artist’s practice. Series of any kind generate and develop new ideas, grow technical ability, and help to organize your thinking and direction. Working on a series in a fairly quick, direct daily practice opens the door to new ideas and abilities even wider. Your process with such a series may be either spontaneous and open-ended, or more conceptual and defined. In either case, completing the individual pieces in a short time can yield surprising and satisfying results. In this episode we present background on two such series, Rebecca’s Pandemic Sketchbook and James Edward Scherbarth’s Currach and Stone Series. Though they approach their work with very different intentions, these are both very personal and meaningful series to the artists. The work also is created within boundaries that help define it as a series—limitations on focus, format, materials used, and a timeline set by the artist. By delving into the details of these two series we hope to inspire listeners to try their own practice of recording thoughts, ideas, and moods on a daily or regular basis as a series, and to consider what this might bring to their work overall. James Edward Scherbarth website: www.jamesedwardscherbarth.com Eric Maisel's book: The Power of Daily Practice Thanks to everyone who has been sharing the show and donating! If you would like to donate to the Messy Studio Podcast donate here (https://www.paypal.com/donate?token=Yyrf7Ht1DYfkYzAaWNoW8zuvCpTryLYsxY2VAj4qGZ3o2o4F7xHGv4VmDDef7kFxuvbgpz_z4jUa-z7F). ​ Thank you also to everyone who has written testimonials for Ross's website! Have you enjoyed the audio production quality and hearing Ross's voice? Submit a testimonial by email at rticknor.core@gmail.com or by submitting the contact form at www.messystudiopodcast.com! ​ When you buy art supplies at Blick remember to use our affiliate link to support the podcast! Bookmark this link and then you don't even have to think about it again. This is one of the best ways to support the show. It takes a few seconds and costs you nothing! Right now Gamblin products are 40% off, so this is a great time to buy Cold Wax or Gamblin oil paints! www.messystudiopodcast.com/blick ​ It's time for an update on the latest news from Cold Wax Academy! Rebecca and her partner Jerry Mclaughlin are now well into their second quarter of weekly Live sessions for their members, in which they explore 3 main topics in deep, interrelated, and engaging ways. This quarter, those topics are Texture, Layering, and Writing and Talking about your Work. Weekly sessions include discussion, slide presentations, videos, critiques, special guests, and the opportunty to ask questions during the session. Cold Wax Academy Members have access to all past sessions, which are recorded each week--so if you're hesitating to join mid-quarter, no worries about missing out. There is plenty for you to explore, and you can watch previous sessions on your own schedule. Jerry and Rebecca offer for a trial month at the Core level for only $29.99. Visit www.coldwaxacademy.com and and click on the Memberships button. ​ Have an art related product, service, or event you would like to advertise on the Messy Studio Podcast? Email Ross at rticknor.core@gmail.com (mailto:rticknor.core@gmail.com) for current mid-roll advertising rates. ​ For more from The Messy Studio: www.messystudiopodcast.com www.facebook.com/messystudiopodcast ​ For more from Rebecca Crowell: www.rebeccacrowell.com www.coldwaxacademy.com ​ The Messy Studio Podcast is a CORE Publication MGMT production.