“The solitude that I find in my studio is one of plenitude. I am enough for myself. I live fully there.”
~ Artist, Joan Mitchell
I had already been thinking a lot about solitude when I read the above quote in the Patti Smith book entitled, Book of Days. Joan’s quote resonated, and felt like a sign for me to write on the subject of solitude; both the solitude experienced in the studio, and the solitude I’ve come to enjoy, even relish in my life.
Solitude means the state of being alone. Solitude is not to be confused with loneliness. Being alone is not necessarily a negative state to be in. Solitude does not mean being an anti-social person.
Like everything in life, I’m discovering the concept of solitude is layered, nuanced, not this or that. It’s everything.
A person can be in a crowded room and feel lonely. A person can be in a beautiful place in solitude and feel fulfilled.
Alone, I can think, process my thoughts, hear my inner voice above others, truly live in the moment, rest, replenish, heal, and move at my own pace.
Alone in my studio, I can focus on my work, indulge my creative self, and yes, “live fully there.”
This is not to say I never feel loneliness. Oh believe me, I do, but it’s transient like happiness is, like every feeling, sense, emotion is, transient. Everything is in flux, a state of impermanence.
Solitude is something I never had before. The experience of solitude is not only something I now enjoy, solitude is something I now need in between the busy work and social times.
Solitude and me. Me, in solitude… That's all.
Thank you for reading.
XO,
Michelle
Michelle, you have a beautiful way with words. I, too, need times of solitude for my mind, body, and soul.