Experiments in Joy

As the weeks in quarantine count up (celebrating 16 weeks+ here), I'm focused on one thing- HAPPINESS!
Happiness and health, specifically immunity, are entwined. With many of the common options for seeking happiness outside the home are greatly reduced right now or completely eliminated; there is a real need for finding new forms of joy within this time of isolation. I've been documenting my process along the way.

Here's a little photo diary of my latest experiments in joy!

I've started a new round of art experiments because the brain loves novelty.
I also find great joy in discovery, invention, and creation.
I have spent as much time outside in nature as I can. I hike, I forage, I collect, I photograph and recently, I've been combining hobbies. I made mushroom spore art using mushrooms I've collected on walks. I have plans to use these for some digital collage art.

   
Digital tools are making a comeback in my work! I did a lot of digital work in the early 2000s toying with scanners and early digital photography. I've enjoyed the nostalgia feelings combined with new perspective in this process of returning to digital work. 
I've been painting my face and putting it on a scanner.
      
To make images like these: