I refer to my non-productive periods as fallow times. I think they are essential. Catherine Stock More Quotes by Catherine Stock More Quotes From Catherine Stock My fabulous architect godfather and mentor told me once that striving toward a goal - or perfection - gives one focus and direction, which is a helluva lot better than chasing one's tail. Catherine Stock goal perfection giving Art is a business, like any other. Catherine Stock art-is art My biggest fear is expending the best and most exciting energy in sketches, no matter how quickly executed. I often need to empty the rubbish bin several times before regaining the fresh quality of the initial exploratory sketches. Catherine Stock quality energy needs If one is constantly challenged, one grows. If one becomes complacent, one stultifies. Catherine Stock complacent growth grows The muse on my shoulder is very sensitive and does not abide claptrap of any kind... Only when I am totally immersed... absorbed in work... does she allow something magical to happen and I become aware of a faint heartbeat and gentle breath emanating from my brush. Catherine Stock muse kind doe I am holed up in a small village where I am doing my own work and it feels great. I have a small gallery and not many people find me, but I am happy being left alone and doing what I love. Catherine Stock small-villages gallery people