I have a HUGE confession

Posting some of my latest work scares the S**T out of me.

There.  I said it.

But, let me tell you why.  First of all, even though I have ventured into non-objective art in the past, and quit because of “my three yo could do this”, and “give me a couple of shots of tequila and I can do something JUST LIKE THIS!”, comments, it keeps pulling me back in.  It’s like some unseen force keeps imploring me to continue.  So, there is this fear of negative criticism.

Second of all, I’m very aware of the “rule” that artists are ALWAYS supposed to paint the same sort of subject matter in the same style. But, I’ve never been much of a rule follower.  I had a very famous artist tell me one time at the very beginning of my career to never let galleries pigeon-hole me, as it would stifle my creative nature.  I always want to paint with passion and what my soul journey is asking me to paint, as I feel that this is my calling.   I suppose that it may be a big drawback as far as gallery representation, however, I’ve been there and done that, and I find when I paint what my galleries in the past have asked me to paint – they don’t sell.  I’m very fortunate to be represented by two galleries right now that understand artists and their need and desire to have total creative freedom.  Do they want all of my work?  Of course not!!!  They know their collectors and what resonates with them.

As people, we change, and we grow, so why can’t we, as artists, do the same???

Since I have started creating visionary art with messages, I have gained collectors, and lost some.  I know that this is a part of my journey.  Not always comfortable, but essential for my growth.

I am finding that with this non-objective art – it is making me let go of my desire to control.  In both the way I live, and the way I paint.  After all, I find that artists are what they paint.

This quote by Degas sums a lot up for me:

“If you are an artist, you must never underestimate the role you play in society. Although you may struggle to make ends meet, and although your work may seem unappreciated or undervalued, you MUST continue bringing beauty into the world, for without the eyes of the artist, what do we see, but dust? Your role in life is to make others see what only you can see, and in doing so, point others in the right direction. Never get discouraged. In your humility, you are powerful beyond measure.”

There is something so beautiful to me when I see an artist go outside of their comfort zone and truly “create” from their soul rather than creating for others.  To create for the sake of creating….to bring in those messages that are dying to come through the artist meant for someone to receive.

I know that this is not a path for all artists….but it is mine.  Unapologetically mine.  I’m somewhat of a freer spirit than others…and not as much as some.

I am an artist.

I am a writer,

I am a visionary.

I am ME.

May We Walk Together As One.