I AM NOT GOOD ENOUGH
Thought you might be interested in what my work table looks like at the museum for my “Ghosts” project. I am using mainly acrylic, charcoal and collage. But there is so much more to it than those. I know you know what I am talking about. What are your favorite mediums that you are using right now? © 2018 David Limrite
“If you hear a voice within you saying, ‘You are not a painter’, then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced.”
Vincent Van Gogh
I Am Not Good Enough
For a second, just a second, before I began my Roomful Of Ghosts residency at the San Luis Obispo Museum Of Art, I had the thought that I was not good enough to pull off this project, I don’t think I was questioning my skill or talent. And it was not about fear of criticism from others. It was something bigger than that.
What I was concerned about was that I was afraid that I would not be pleased with the results. That I would, in some way, let myself down.
I worked on preparations for this project for 3 years, before I even began the actual residency. This whole thing has been a big deal for me. I knew I had very high expectations for myself and these 10 paintings.
As a result, I was filled with a bit of fear and self-doubt before I began.
But, here’s the thing. As soon as I began working on the paintings in the space in the museum, all of those fears and self-doubts went away.
As soon as I got out of my head and, instead, got involved in the process of creating the paintings, I began to have fun with it and that allowed me to just create. And, not worry about the outcome. This was a great reminder to me that creativity is all about “process not product”.
One of my favorite things that I love to tell the artists whom I mentor is, “ACTION QUIETS FEAR”.
Action sure worked for me this time. So, next time you are filled with fear and self-doubt about a painting in progress , or an upcoming project, focus on the “act of” making the painting. Show up, begin to paint and get involved in the process. And, don’t be surprised if fear and self-doubt take a hike.
Best,
David
[COMING SOON]
Closing Reception:
A ROOMFUL OF GHOSTS
San Luis Obispo Museum of Art | 1010 Broad Street, SLO
December 1, Saturday, 3-5pm
10 PAINTINGS.
2 MONTHS.
1 MUSEUM.
ALL CREATED LIVE.
SEE THE COMPLETED PAINTINGS.
Join me in celebrating the transformation from blank surface to completed pieces. I have enjoyed sharing this process with so many wonderful and diverse people from all walks of life and areas of the country, who came to discover, support and explore the beautiful creative process.
I hope to see you Saturday, December 1st from 3-5pm.
FYI, the last live painting days are November 29 & 30 (Thurs & Fri), and the last day to see the completed works is Sunday, December 2nd, 11am - 5pm. View the full Live Painting Schedule.