Some may say that the holiday season is just a crazy time but for me, this year may actually be a break. Since August is has been one thing after another. Funerals, major household repairs, and job changes have all taken their toll.
Then there was the computer. . . . My trusty eMachines that I bought in 2002 finally submitted to obsolescence.
The graphics card (original equipment) started going and as many digital artists know, it is a vital component of our equipment. With that in mind I began to look into how to I could upgrade and unfortunately discovered that I would need to upgrade the power supply as well.
With Vista coming out in a few months I knew that I should either wait or buy a new system now. What I've been hearing about Vista tells me that I am happy with a system that works! Vista will inevitably have all the bugs and problems that need to be ironed out before it is a great platform, if ever. Until then, a system that is "Vista Ready" is a screamer in XP.
In the end, I went with a Dell for price and got a system I am happy with. I also took the upgrade option in case I ever decide to move to Vista. Until then, I am enjoying that I can now use oil brushes in Painter where before I had to wait interminably for the brush to render. It effectively put an end to using that set of brushes.
Not being able to paint for a while was frustrating and forced me to look at other avenues. I always carry a sketchbook in case I get an idea or two but I had noticed that my sketching had become incoherent and repetitive. Almost obsessive. Now that I have had a chance to concentrate on that skill I believe it has made a difference in how I will approach the next pieces.
As for the new job, it was a promotion at the library. It means a few more hours but a better schedule and better pay. Ironically, because of the duties, I have less time to think about art and it has helped me creatively.
My subconscious finally has a chance to get something done too!
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