Monday Must: Things to Feel Inspired

I’M ROSANNA PENG! I’M A MARATHONER, A PROUD AUNTIE, AND I MAKE ART AND FILMS ON THE SIDE.

I chose this topic as a reminder to myself of all the new additions I’ve made to my routine that have brought me inspiration and motivation. It’s easy to rule off certain hobbies or interests and blame it on a lack of time or skill, but prioritizing my emotional well-being is a non-negotiable as a creative person.

NIGHT CLASSES

Taking night or online classes has been a staple for me last year. I’ve taken two painting classes and a figure drawing class through Pasadena Art Center College. I highly recommend checking out some part-time classes your local colleges offer. Since most schools have moved online due to COVID-19, take advantage of the fact that you don’t even have to be in the same city as the school itself. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to pay for an institution to teach you how to do anything, but I enjoyed the structure of school and the accountability of taking a course with other classmates.

READING

I’m so proud to be able to say that I read 21 books last year— that’s 99% more books than the year prior! Goodreads has been a great app to log all the books I want to read and have already read. It’s a great way to read reviews on a book before taking the plunge. This year I made it a goal to read 40 books, which I can easily track on the app. For the record, my two favorite reads from 2020 are: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Know My Name: A Memoir by Chanel Miller.

ART & FRIENDS’ FIGURE DRAWING SESSIONS

Art and Friends started as a small online group of friends who wanted to draw and make art more with the newfound free time during the pandemic. We started hosting virtual figure drawing classes and invited models to pose through zoom. It was an experiment for all of us involved but ended up being so much fun! We all deserve a space to create without judgment. 

RUNNING

Running has taught me so much about myself. On the days that I need help re-focusing on my run, the Guided Runs on the NRC app really helps. You have access to different coaches and pro athletes while they give tips on your workout and all for free. 

Find more of Rosanna’s work here.

What do you do to stay inspired? Let us know in the comments below and or on social media by tagging us @itsmaryyoung.