Chapter 1: Understanding Impedance in Art and Life

In the realm of creation, the concept of impedance often serves as a metaphor for the limitations we impose on ourselves. We often only need a fraction of what we think to be necessary. The rest is simply a backup, a precaution for when our self-doubt and insecurities begin to creep in. I remind myself of this whenever I feel discontent with my appearance or my artistic endeavors. It's worth noting that if you have only one eye, the distance between them becomes irrelevant. Similarly, when one side of your face seems to fade, it’s a reminder that our perceptions can be skewed.

Creating art that embodies this beautifully imperfect symmetry requires meticulous planning. I realized this deeply when I attempted to sketch a figure that has remained nameless in my mind, an embodiment of my desires. A small round make-up mirror sits beside my collection of art supplies, serving as a tool of reference. However, how can another person's features truly serve as a guide for my own? While my brow might share some traits with yours, the very essence of individual identity makes them unique. We cannot reference others to delve into our own inner truths.

At best, one might attempt to cross-reference experiences. Yet, this could lead us to an entirely different understanding. I find myself flipping the mirror, scrutinizing every detail, every imperfection. The contrast of dark circles beneath my eyes reminds me of the weight I carry — both the physical and emotional burdens that have shaped me. You have helped me discover just how much I am capable of bearing.

As I prepare for my moment in the spotlight, I often feel unprepared. Individuals like us tend to use our creative personas as shields, guarding our vulnerabilities while we navigate through life’s challenges, often fueled by caffeine and art. Recently, my creative vessels seem shattered. I’m left extracting fragments of inspiration from one piece to another, only to encounter obstacles that disrupt my narrative. Yet, in my personal existence, I am a warrior determined to create, even as I feel like a hunchback artist facing a tangled web of ideas. The absence of inspiration leaves me parched.

To be an artist is to become intimately familiar with scarcity. In my youth, I interpreted this primarily in material terms. I believed that the messages I received were about the lavish garments I couldn't obtain. I accepted it, thinking I looked better in casual wear. However, there’s a profound depth to artistic struggle that transcends the superficial.

Every artist encounters moments when they scrape the bottom of their creative reservoir. When the inspiration they’ve set out to thaw in the warmth of their passion has soured under the weight of time. I look at my remnants, disheartened, and acknowledge my share of this creative hunger. It’s a necessary part of the process.

I can no longer feast on the memories of my past creations. For a time, I reveled in them, indulging in the beauty of what once was. I drew from my sadness and joy alike, often without realizing that they too can become exhausted. Perhaps joy and sorrow share more similarities than we care to admit.

People like you and me often find ourselves in a barren landscape, celebrating our creative deprivation. I must strip myself bare to foster new creations. Yet, there’s a reason even deities take breaks.

Do you ever wonder if the divine was adhering to a six-day workweek, only to run out of creativity by Day 6? Some days, I feel as though I’m the sole survivor, waiting for that spark to reignite the creative flame.

To begin anew offers more possibilities for poetry than the existence of poets themselves. I analyze myself to better express who I am, and with the fine dust of charcoal on my fingers, I transform my features into shapes of geometry. My once-offensive traits become simply elements of existence. Art serves to remind us that imperfections are part of being human.

Humans are here to create flawed art.

While a woman may bare her soul for the sake of poetry, she must also recognize when it is time to pause, to turn her gaze outward, and replenish her spirit. To release, rather than to relapse.

This is me

Resetting the stage

Cleaning my slate.

Releasing.

I can no longer afford to fall back into old patterns.

Thank you for reading. I often find art to be an intricate challenge, while words flow more easily. I remind myself that words, too, are a form of art. Yet, there are times when it's difficult to discern what to embrace and what to relinquish for survival. It’s crucial to hold onto the right things.

And, as always, a heartfelt thanks to Tisha Dee✨ and J.D. Harms for providing a space for me to share these thoughts.

Chapter 2: Exploring the Concept of Impedance

The first video titled "Impedance Explained" delves into the concept of impedance, offering insights into its applications in both art and life.

The second video titled "Impedance" further explores the implications of this concept, providing a deeper understanding of its relevance in creative processes.