feeling a little artistically challenged?

I sure am! This past little while as I look towards the school summer break and think about what plans we shall make, I am feeling the need to 'take' myself on a little 'stay-cation' art retreat. I feel the need to engross myself in a daily ritual of actual art-making spurred on by the encouragement and challenge of others, stepping outside my comfort zone and stretch my artistic abilities. I feel most certainly that this summer is for play before the knuckle-down of autumn returns...

For a long while I have heard of various artistic challenges whispered on the ether that is the web'net. I've been tucking them away (for a rainy day) in a folder of bookmarks so as to find them again when I need. It is a little overwhelming when you look at all the options...

Firstly, there are the short-term, but intensive, 30-Day Challenges...


...via Run with Scissors

...via 30 Days of Doodles

...via Traci Bunkers and Bianca

And then there are the Every Day Challenges that challenge you over a longer period. Some are daily, while others are weekly...


...via In the Sun


...via Balzer Designs


...via Traci Bautista

And, of course this list doesn't even cover the artsy e-course options out there... Are you doing any of these challenges? If not (like me), what would you choose to create your ideal stay-cation art retreat?

{Also, I'd just like to add a quick 'hello' to those visiting for the first time via LA's blog and her 5th Anniversay of Freckled Nest. Welcome!}