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Start an Art Challenge — What If You Didn’t Finish?

The Spiritual Side of Art

Leave a Comment / Art, creativity, emotional vulnerability, Therapeutic benefits of art / admin

Sometimes when I’m painting, I lose all sense of time. My hand moves without thinking, and the colors seem to choose themselves. It’s as if something beyond me is guiding the brush—a quiet spiritual whisper that doesn’t need words. In those moments, I’m not just “making art.” I’m remembering something older, deeper… maybe even sacred.

For me, creating is spiritual. It’s not about the finished product or whether anyone else will like it. It’s about being present, open, and willing to be surprised. There’s something about sitting with blank paper or canvas that feels like standing on holy ground. I don’t always know what’s going to come through, but I trust the process. I trust that whatever needs to come out will find its way. We haven’t really talked directly about this, but you might see a connection in this blog post here.

Art has become a quiet companion in my life—a way to hear myself when the world gets too loud. There are days when I sit down to paint and realize I’m holding something heavy that I didn’t even know I was carrying. And somehow, through colors and shapes and gentle movements, it starts to lift. Sometimes it pours out in wild brushstrokes; other times it whispers through a soft wash of color. But always, something shifts.

I’ve come to believe that the creative act is a kind of spiritual dialogue. I may not always know who I’m speaking to—my higher self, my guides, the spark of divine creativity that lives in all of us—but I feel the presence. And when I really let go, when I stop trying to “make something good” and just allows what wants to come through… that’s when the magic happens. That’s when I feel closest to whatever it is that created me.

There’s something sacred about making something with your hands. It reminds us that we’re not just consumers or bystanders—we’re co-creators. Whether you’re painting, knitting, sculpting, doodling in the margins, or even rearranging furniture—there’s power in that act of creation. It says, I am here. I exist. And I have something inside me worth expressing.

I think that’s why art has always been tied to the spiritual, even in ancient cultures. People made cave paintings, wove symbols into cloth, carved their stories into stone. Not because they were trying to sell something or become famous—but because something inside them said, Speak. Sing. Create. And they listened.

So if you’ve ever felt that quiet tug to make something—anything—I hope you’ll answer it. You don’t have to wait for inspiration or feel “good enough.” Just begin.

Light a candle if you want. Put on music that moves you. Close your eyes and ask, “What wants to be seen today?” Then let your hands lead the way.

Because maybe art isn’t about making masterpieces. Maybe it’s about making meaning. And maybe the most spiritual thing we can do is allow ourselves to show up—imperfect, open, and willing to create anyway. Here is an interesting article I found on the internet that shows that other artists and creatives are beginning to feel the same way.

Have you ever felt something sacred stir while you were creating? I’d love to hear how art connects to your spirit.

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Raphael: A Short Life with Major Effects

Leave a Comment / Art, creativity, Fine Art, Great Artists from History, painting / admin

Did you know yesterday was the birthday of one of the greats? I’m talking about Raphael—the Italian Renaissance painter, not the Ninja Turtle. Born on April 6, 1483, in Urbino, Italy, Raphael (full name Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino) lived a short but incredibly influential life. He passed away on the very same day he was born, April 6, 1520, at just 37 years old. But wow, did he leave a mark in that time.

He’s best known for his mad skills with balance, harmony, and grace. Where Michelangelo brought muscle and drama, and Leonardo gave us mystery and science, Raphael gave us serenity and sweetness. His paintings just feel calm, don’t they?

One of his early hits was the Marriage of the Virgin, painted when he was still a teenager. You can already see the clarity and order that would become his signature. But it was when he moved to Florence and then later to Rome that his career really took off. Think of it like a small-town artist landing in the big leagues and totally owning it.

And then there’s the School of Athens. If you’ve ever seen this masterpiece, you know it’s a love letter to philosophy, learning, and all the big thinkers of the ancient world—Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, you name it. And he painted it on a wall in the Vatican. Casual. It’s full of clever little details, including a sneaky

self-portrait of Raphael himself in the corner, just chilling among the philosophers.

He also painted dozens of Madonnas—his depictions of the Virgin Mary are tender and beautifully human. The Sistine Madonna is probably the most famous

(those two little cherubs at the bottom have basically become pop culture icons), but every one of his Madonnas seems to glow with warmth.

It’s easy to see why Raphael was so beloved, not just by popes and princes but by other artists. In fact, after his death, people called him The Prince of Painters. And his influence didn’t stop there—his style set the standard for beauty and composition for centuries.

So today, for his birthday, maybe take a moment to scroll through some of his work online or read a little more about his life. He was more than just an artist—he was a visionary who helped shape the very idea of what art could be. And honestly, who couldn’t use a little more beauty and balance in their day?

Here are some online galleries where you can explore his masterpieces:

National Gallery, London: This gallery offers an insightful overview of Raphael’s life and houses a notable collection of his works.
National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.: Explore a slideshow of Raphael’s art, reflecting the harmony and balance that define his style. National Gallery of Art
Google Arts & Culture: A curated selection of Raphael’s works, providing high-resolution images and detailed information.
Web Gallery of Art: A virtual museum offering a comprehensive database of European fine arts, including an extensive section on Raphael. WGA
Musement’s Virtual Museum: An interactive platform featuring over a hundred of Raphael’s works, allowing users to browse by country and museum. Musement

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5 Fun and Easy Clay Projects for Beginners

Leave a Comment / Art, Art mediums, creativity, Family fun, pottery as art form / admin

Welcome! Here on this blog, we talk a lot about art, crafts, trash to treasure, art Masters, art mediums and more. If you would like to check out any or all of our previous blog posts, you can do that here. In the mean time, let’s talk about clay.

Working with clay is one of those magical things that makes you feel like a kid again, no matter how old you are. There’s something so satisfying about taking a lump of clay and turning it into something beautiful—or at least something that makes you smile. If you’re just getting started, the key is to keep it simple and let yourself play. Here are five easy clay projects that are perfect for beginners and can be done right at your kitchen table.

Start with a little pinch pot. This is one of the oldest forms of pottery and honestly one of the most forgiving. You just roll a ball of clay, stick your thumb in the center, and gently pinch the sides to make a little bowl. They’re great for holding jewelry, loose change, or even a tiny succulent. Want to jazz it up? Press in textures using lace, leaves, or stamps, or paint it once it’s dry for a personal touch.

Try making a set of simple beads. Roll small pieces of clay into spheres, ovals, or funky shapes, and use a toothpick or skewer to poke a hole through the center. Once they dry or bake (depending on your clay), you can string them into a necklace, bracelet, or even a keychain. It’s a great way to get used to handling clay and working on small details without feeling overwhelmed.

Create a mini animal sculpture—nothing fancy, just something cute like a chubby cat, sleepy dog, or even a tiny turtle. Focus on the basic shapes first, like round bodies and simple ears. A little toothpick or clay tool can help you add in eyes or texture. These make fun desk buddies or little gifts, and they’re a great way to practice shaping and proportion.

Make a clay dish using a cookie cutter. Roll out the clay like you’re making sugar cookies, press a large cookie cutter into it—think hearts, stars, or moons—and gently lift the shape. Place it over a bowl or upside-down cup to dry so it forms a slight curve. These make sweet catch-all dishes or decor pieces and are super satisfying to decorate with paints or metallic accents.

Try your hand at a decorative plaque. Roll out a slab of clay and cut it into a rectangle or oval, then carve in a word, name, or simple design using a pencil or stylus. You can even press a doily or fabric into the surface for some texture. Once it’s dry, add color with acrylics or watercolor, seal it, and hang it up. These make great handmade signs or gifts and feel more advanced than they really are.

The best part of working with clay is that there’s really no wrong way to do it. You’re learning as you go, and every piece is its own little adventure. Start small, enjoy the mess, and don’t worry about perfection—your creativity is what makes each piece special. If you try any of these, I’d love to hear how it goes or see pictures of your creations. Happy making!

If you are a visual learner, you might watch our companion YouTube video about this exact same topic.

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The Art of Sticking With an Art Challenge

Leave a Comment / Art, artistic style, creativity, drawing, goal setting, painting, pastels, Perfectionism, Pinterest / admin

Starting an art challenge feels a lot like falling in love. The excitement is real, the inspiration is endless, and you’re ready to create something amazing every single day. But then, somewhere along the way, life gets busy, enthusiasm starts to fizzle, and what once felt like a fun adventure starts feeling like a chore. Sound familiar?

Keeping your energy up for a long-term art challenge isn’t always easy, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. We even talked about some of the blocks to working on your art here. If you’re in the middle of one—or thinking about starting—here are a few tricks to keep the enthusiasm alive.

First, make it easy on yourself. In the beginning, it’s tempting to go all out with big, detailed pieces, but that’s a surefire way to burn out. Instead, give yourself permission to scale down. Quick sketches, simple color studies, or even doodles still count. The goal is to keep showing up, not to create a masterpiece every time.

Next, switch things up. If you’re tired of painting, try digital. If you’ve been doing nothing but graphite, throw in some ink or watercolor. A change in medium can spark fresh excitement and help break up the monotony.

Another trick? Plan rewards. Maybe after a week of consistent work, you treat yourself to a new brush, a fancy sketchbook, or even just a guilt-free day of scrolling through Pinterest for inspiration. Having something to look forward to can make all the difference.

It also helps to share your progress. Whether it’s posting online, checking in with a friend, or even just flipping back through your own sketchbook, seeing how far you’ve come can be incredibly motivating. Plus, getting a little encouragement from others never hurts!

Lastly, if the art challenge starts feeling like a burden, remember why you started. Was it to improve your skills? To build a habit? To reconnect with creativity? Focusing on the original goal can help shift your mindset from I have to do this back to I get to do this.

At the end of the day, an art challenge is meant to be just that—a challenge. But it should also be fun, inspiring, and rewarding. So take a breath, shake off the pressure, and get back to creating. You’ve got this!

Be sure to watch our video about this topic. You can watch it here.

A Little More About Art Challenges

I’ve been thinking more about art challenges, particularly what happens when we don’t finish one. Does that mean we’ve failed, or might we have gained something valuable along the way?

I’ve written a follow-up article exploring that very question, and I’ve also made a YouTube video sharing some additional thoughts.

You can read my new article, Start an Art Challenge — What if you did not finish it?, or watch my video about art challenges.

After all, creativity isn’t just about finishing what we start. Sometimes it’s about discovering something unexpected along the way.

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The Masters Can Bring Magic into Your Art

Leave a Comment / Art, artistic style, creativity, painting, pastels / admin

The Masters offer you the opportunity to see their vision and the beauty they were able to create. Have you ever stared at a Van Gogh or a Rembrandt and think, How did they do that? The way the light dances, the movement, the emotion—it’s mesmerizing. But then the doubt creeps in: If I try to paint like them, am I just copying? Is it even possible to capture that essence without losing my own artistic voice?

The short answer? Absolutely. And you should. The longer answer? There’s an art to it (pun totally intended), and it’s about inspiration, not imitation. We have talked before here about imposter syndrome and the fear that we are not artists, not good enough, etc. Using the Masters in your work does not mean that you are copying or not good enough to use them.

Understand, Don’t Mimic

Think of studying the Masters like learning a new language. You wouldn’t just memorize sentences—you’d learn how the language works so you can speak it in your own way. Instead of copying brushstrokes, compositions, or colors exactly, ask yourself:

What draws me to this artist? Is it their bold color choices, their dramatic lighting, their unique brushwork?
What emotions do they make me feel? And how do they achieve that feeling?
What techniques are they using that I can adapt to my own style?

Steal From the Masters Like an Artist (The Right Way)

Austin Kleon’s famous book Steal Like an Artist (affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4iyhrTQ) breaks it down: great artists don’t copy—they collect, transform, and remix.

Instead of copying a painting, take pieces of inspiration from multiple sources:
🎨 Love Monet’s dreamy, atmospheric quality? Experiment with softer edges and layered color.
🎭 Admire the dramatic lighting of Caravaggio? Play with contrast in your own way.
🌀 Obsessed with Van Gogh’s movement? Try exaggerating rhythm in your brushstrokes, but with your own subject matter.

Remixing vs. Replicating

Think of your art like a playlist. You wouldn’t copy a song note for note—you’d mix influences to create a sound that feels like you.

One way to do this is by blending old techniques with new concepts. Imagine taking the glow of a Rembrandt portrait but applying it to a futuristic sci-fi setting. Or borrowing the delicate, sketch-like quality of a Da Vinci study but using it for street scenes instead of Renaissance figures.

Make It Your Own

This is where it gets fun. Once you’ve absorbed an artist’s energy, start pushing it in new directions:

1️⃣ Swap Subjects – Take the structure of a famous painting but apply it to a totally different theme. What if Vermeer’s soft indoor lighting was used in a neon cityscape?
2️⃣ Change Mediums – Try translating oil painting techniques into digital art or pen sketches.
3️⃣ Mash Up Styles – Combine impressionist color palettes with bold, graphic shapes. Imagine what Klimt would do with a graffiti wall!

The Best Artists Learn From The Masters, Then Let Go

Picasso didn’t wake up one day painting in cubes. He mastered classical realism first, then shattered it into something new. Studying the Masters is about building your toolbox, but what you build with those tools? That’s all you.

So go ahead—learn from them, take what inspires you, then make it yours. That’s not copying. That’s art.

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Art Supply Care for Creative Success

Leave a Comment / Art, Art mediums, Art Supply Care, creativity / admin

Did you know that art supply care helps your creativity? Every artist knows that art supplies aren’t just tools—they’re investments in creativity. When you spend money on quality paints, brushes, canvases, and papers, you want them to last, so you can keep producing the work you love without constantly replacing what you use every day.

We have many other posts about art and creativity that you might enjoy. You can check them out here. I hope you find them entertaining and informative and help you on your creative journey.

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend the life of your supplies is by cleaning and properly storing them right after use. For instance, brushes should be gently rinsed with the appropriate cleaner—warm water with a little mild soap works wonders for acrylics, while oil painters might use a specific brush cleaner or a bit of turpentine. The idea is to remove all residue so the bristles don’t stiffen or fall apart over time. And it’s not just about the brushes; remember that your palettes, mixing tools, and even your sketchbooks deserve a bit of care too.

Proper storage is another key step for art supply care. Keep your paints in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents them from drying out or losing their vibrancy. For those delicate items like watercolors or charcoal pencils, consider using airtight containers or protective sleeves to guard against moisture and dust. Organization plays a big role here, too. When your supplies are neatly stored, you not only protect them better but also save time looking for the right tool when inspiration strikes.

Routine maintenance might seem like a chore, but think of it as part of your creative process. Setting aside a few minutes after each session for art supply care can make a huge difference. Over time, that small commitment pays off by keeping your art supplies in tip-top shape. Plus, a well-maintained set of tools can actually inspire more creative exploration since you’re not distracted by malfunctioning brushes or dried-out paints. Artist at work

In the end, taking care of your expensive art supplies is a blend of habit and respect for your craft. It’s about acknowledging that every stroke of the brush and every dab of color is a part of your creative journey. So, next time you finish a piece, remember to treat your supplies well. After all, they’re the foundation on which your art is built.

You might want to check out the companion video on YouTube: Unlock Your Creativity Care for Your Art Supplies

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OCD and Art: The Chaotic Dance of Creativity and Perfectionism

Leave a Comment / Art, OCD, Perfectionism / admin

For many artists, the creative process is both a blessing and a battle. The thrill of making something new, of pulling ideas from the ether and turning them into reality, is exhilarating. But when obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) enters the equation, that creative process can feel like walking a tightrope between inspiration and exhaustion. Others may even equate OCD with a form of creative art block, although nothing is farther from the truth. The hesitation and the avoidance that OCD creates stems directly from a certain way the brain is wired to think. Artists with OCD may want, even desire, to paint or sculpt or create but the messages in their heads prevents them from starting or finishing a project. That is not art block. We have a post about art block that you may want to read here.

OCD isn’t just about being neat or organized—though plenty of artists with OCD do have an intense need for order. It’s about intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and an overwhelming drive for perfection that can make finishing a piece feel like an impossible task. Imagine painting a canvas and being unable to stop tweaking the tiniest details, erasing and redoing a single stroke over and over because it doesn’t feel “right.” Or writing a poem and rereading the same line for hours, convinced that it’s just one word away from perfection but unable to move on. For an artist with OCD, the work is never truly finished—only abandoned after an exhausting internal battle.

That said, there’s also a strange beauty in the way OCD and creativity interact. The same relentless attention to detail that can drive an artist mad also pushes them to produce work of stunning intricacy and depth. The obsessive need to master a skill can lead to technical excellence that others might never achieve. And in some ways, making art can be a release—a way to process and externalize the chaos inside.

Many famous artists and creatives have struggled with OCD-like tendencies. Writers who obsess over the rhythm of a single sentence. Painters who can’t stand the thought of a brushstroke being out of place. Musicians who repeat a note endlessly until it resonates in exactly the right way. The line between obsessive dedication and creative genius is razor-thin.

Of course, living with OCD as an artist isn’t easy. The fear of imperfection can lead to creative paralysis, where starting a new piece feels too daunting. Deadlines become nightmares. And the frustration of never feeling “done” can sap the joy out of creating. But learning to work with OCD rather than against it is key. Some artists set time limits on revisions or force themselves to walk away from a project for a while before deciding if it really needs more work. Others embrace imperfection as part of their style, finding freedom in the flaws.

At the end of the day, art isn’t about perfection—it’s about expression. Whether your OCD fuels your creativity or fights against it, what matters is that you keep creating. The world needs the art that only you can make.

We also have a short video about this issue and you might enjoy watching that, too. Here is the link to that video on YouTube:https://youtube.com/shorts/v30AHVqR83E?feature=share

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The 7 Biggest Challenges Artists Face

Leave a Comment / Art, Art Block, artistic style, creativity, emotional vulnerability, self care / admin

Being an artist isn’t all sunshine and creativity, no matter what some might think. If you’ve been on this journey for any length of time, you know it’s filled with unique challenges that test your resolve. Whether you’re new to creating or a seasoned pro, there are struggles that unite us as artists. Let’s talk about some of the hardest challenges for artists and, more importantly, how to navigate through them.

1. That nagging feeling of “Am I good enough?”
Oh, the inner critic. It’s like an uninvited guest who never knows when to leave. Every artist battles self-doubt. “This isn’t good enough,” or “I’ll never be as talented as so-and-so.” Sound familiar? Here’s the truth: perfection doesn’t exist in art. What does exist is growth. Your work isn’t “bad”—it’s just a snapshot of where you are in your journey. Instead of obsessing over flaws, focus on progress. Celebrate each step forward, no matter how small.

2. Feeling like a fraud (hello, impostor syndrome!)
So many artists struggle with this and we visited this topic here. You might feel like your success is just luck or that you don’t deserve the title of “artist.” But listen: if you create art, you are an artist. It’s not about degrees, galleries, or how long you’ve been doing this. Own your creativity and the work you put into it. You’ve earned it.

3. The comparison trap
It’s easy to look at another artist’s work and feel like you’re falling short. But here’s the thing: their journey isn’t yours. There’s always going to be someone who’s further along, but guess what? There are also people who look at your work and find it inspiring. Instead of comparing, try learning from others while honing your own unique style. Your voice in art matters just as much as anyone else’s.

self-doubt and Artists 4. Confidence taking a hit
Art isn’t always easy, and it’s definitely not always fun. When things don’t turn out the way you hoped, it’s tempting to throw in the towel. But mistakes are part of the process—they teach us and make us better. Don’t aim for perfect pieces every time. Instead, aim to create a lot. Some of it will be great, some will be… well, not-so-great. That’s okay. Even the bad pieces serve a purpose. Keep going, and watch your confidence grow. We have a blog post that talks about vulnerability here that you might find of interest if your confidence is struggling.

5. Money worries
Ah, the “starving artist” myth. While it’s true that making a living as an artist can be tough, it’s not impossible. Many artists support themselves by selling their work through websites, online marketplaces like Etsy, or even local events. It takes effort, and yes, a little creativity in how you market yourself, but it’s absolutely doable. Money is full of challenges for everyone, not just artists. Be very creative in finding solutions to this particular issue.

6. Running out of inspiration
We’ve all been there: staring at a blank canvas or screen, completely out of ideas. It’s frustrating, especially if you rely on your art for income. When inspiration dries up, step away. Go for a walk, visit a gallery, listen to music, or explore nature—whatever helps you reset. Sometimes, simply living life is the best way to reignite your creativity.

7. Struggling to be seen
Getting your work in front of the right audience can feel like an uphill battle, especially if you’re an introvert. But remember, every artist starts somewhere. Start small, stay consistent, and don’t give up. Whether it’s through social media, local events, or networking with other artists, exposure takes time. Stick with it, and the right people will find you.

Getting Your Art Seen

Being an artist isn’t easy, but the challenges we face are what make the journey so rewarding. The key is to embrace the struggles as part of the process and keep pushing forward. Here is a great site to learn more about art and the struggle of artists today. I hope you find it helpful and interesting, I did. Here is another look at this topic but from a different viewpoint, so check it out and see what you think.

What about you? What’s been the hardest part of your artistic journey? I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share them in the comments below.

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Creating Hesitation?

Leave a Comment / Art, artistic style, creativity, creativity / admin

What Prevents You from Creating Even Though You Want To?

Have you ever sat down with every intention to create something, only to find yourself frozen, staring at your tools or a blank canvas? If so, you’re not alone. Many artists experience this frustrating gap between the desire to create and the ability to begin. Let’s explore some of the reasons why this happens and how you can overcome them.

One common barrier is perfectionism. The fear that what you create won’t live up to your expectations—or worse, someone else’s—can be paralyzing. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “If it can’t be perfect, why bother?” But here’s the truth: perfection is an illusion. The best way to silence that inner critic is to start small and give yourself permission to create something imperfect.

Another culprit is the fear of judgment. You might worry about how others will perceive your work, and that fear can stop you in your tracks. But art is deeply personal, and not everyone will connect with your creations—and that’s okay. Remind yourself that you don’t need anyone’s approval to create. Your art is for you first and foremost.

Time is a challenge for many of us. Between work, family, and other commitments, it often feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day. But creating doesn’t require huge chunks of time. Even setting aside 10 minutes to sketch or experiment with colors can make a difference. Small, consistent efforts can build momentum.

Of course, sometimes the issue isn’t external—it’s creative block. When inspiration doesn’t strike, it can feel impossible to create. In these moments, try stepping away from your usual medium. Go for a walk, listen to music, or doodle without a plan. Inspiration often sneaks in when you’re not actively searching for it.

Burnout can also play a big role. If you’ve been pushing yourself too hard or juggling too many responsibilities, your creative energy might be drained. Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Give yourself time to recharge, and don’t feel guilty about stepping back. Your creativity will thank you.

Then there’s imposter syndrome—that nagging voice that says you’re not a “real” artist or that you don’t deserve to create. Let me remind you of something important: if you’re creating, you are an artist. Everyone starts somewhere, and every piece you create adds to your story. We have explored this topic before here so you can visit that post to see what I mean.

Lastly, emotional blocks like stress or anxiety can sap your creative energy. Sometimes, these feelings are hard to shake. But your art can be a tool for processing them. Don’t wait for the perfect emotional state to create; instead, let your emotions fuel your work.

If you’ve been struggling to create, know that you’re not alone. Every artist faces these barriers at some point. The key is to recognize them for what they are—temporary hurdles, not permanent roadblocks. Take a deep breath, pick up your tools, and create something today, no matter how small. You might be surprised at what unfolds.

You can visit our YouTube video channel where we have videos about being vulnerable and imposter syndrome.

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