If you are paid to be a creative, conceptual thinker, then it is easy to get pulled into the drudgery of looming deadlines and pressures of production and deadlines. It may seem that delving into a bit of creativity and playful diversion is a waste of time. But the fact is, that is really far from it.

Danny Gregory’s book Art Before Breakfast is my latest obsession. I’ve learnt that making art will make me saner and happier. And, to tell you the truth, starting off my day with a contour drawing of my desk (my first project) really did help me begin the day less stressed. I felt like I was Picasso, exploring new territory, seeing my environment (in this case my desk) for the first time in a very different way. The various pieces I had on my messy desk reminded me of why I selected them in the first place. To inspire me.

But the art we are talking about here is far from the art that’s in museums and art galleries. Danny Gregory calls it art – with a small “a”.

art with a small “a” is not a product. It’s a point of view. While Art is made by trained professionals and experts, art is made by accountants, farmers and stay-at-home moms at restaurant tables. All it takes is desire and just 15 mins a day. And, this type of art gives you perspective and purpose.

Art Before Breakfast is published by Chronicle Books and distributed in Canada via Raincoast Books.