Art of the Arts.

A “THOUGHT-SKETCH,” a little something to explain why I’ve been so pen and pencil obsessed over the past few days.

I’ve been asked about my love of fine writing instruments and rare paper, and my pursuit of the perfect notebook and pen. Some wonder why it’s so important to me, or what the difference is between a Montblanc fountain pen and a freebie BIC ballpoint. The obvious physical differences aside, I suppose that it’s similar to the differences between a Squarespace or TypePad paid blog, and a freebie Blogger site. 

The significance of art, and its preservation:

Would the Declaration of Independence carry the same significance if it were scribbled on napkins with chalk? 

I doubt that many people ask themselves, or others, this question very often (if ever); however, this is something that I consider regularly. If an artist doesn’t value his or her own work, should anyone else? If a writer doesn’t think that his blog is worth paying for, should you consider it worth reading?

People want to believe that the old adage, “don’t judge a book by its cover,” is followed — and believed — but it isn’t. Our culture has impressed upon us all the importance of aesthetics, advertising and marketing… and we give more credence to the claims of the financially supported (or otherwise famous) than those without similar backing.

I use fine paper to encourage fine writing…

Hopefully, I can create a fine all-around product. If I didn’t believe that I had considerable talent or skill in something, I wouldn’t waste the time or money. I don’t think that everyone should go out and buy $50 notebooks and $1,300 pens… I know that not everyone can afford it. However, there are finer things at a lower-pricepoint. Two-dollar pencils and ten dollar notebooks.

Opening a well-constructed notebook with beautiful paper sets a wonderful tone. Hovering above the page, uncapping a fine writing instrument, my mind becomes enveloped by the significance of the moment, the idea, the message, and my purpose.

I place importance on my work before I even begin, by placing importance on the facilitators of my creations — be it a notebook and pen, pencil and paper, or a computer and blogging service. I like to use products and services created by people who put every ounce of themselves into their craft in hopes of creating a masterwork. Knowing this, I try to do the same.

First, I respect my art. If I won’t, why would anyone?

Timeless

I have a lot of work to do this week — and likely next week, as well. I’m enjoying the slow, rhythmic, methodical process of writing-longhand in my Canteo Classeur notebook… I’m also enjoying skag-sniping in Borderlands with Mordecai “The Hunter.” (Got XBOX 360? Message me, let’s play sometime! Rainfault) 

Next week, Forza 3 and DJ Hero. Next month: Modern Warfare 2.

This holiday season is going to be great for gamers. What else does this mean? I’ll have a lot of sub-$100 items on my wishlist.

I’m working on my next topics — and Bradtastic Premier — but because I don’t have a full site-sponsor yet, Superfluous is on the back-burner. These side-projects take second-seat to my other stuff. Soon I should have another design commission, however… that should be fun!

Meanwhile, if you have questions about getting your online-assets in order, task management, or design, please email me! 37signals’ products are wonderful, but they aren’t automatic breakthroughs. That I can help with.

Also, if you’ve checked out Jumpchart and are considering using it, let me know.

Hope to hear from you!