YOU"RE NOT DOING IT WRONG
Finally completed my “Blue Moments” series. 20 pieces. Each one is 11”x 8”, acrylic, collage and pencil on wood. This is one of the projects that has come to fruition during the pandemic. © 2020 David Limrite
“The quality of your work is directly related to your involvement with what you are doing.”
Anna Held Audette, From her book: “The Blank Canvas
You’re Not Doing It Wrong
If you are not having fun while you are engaged in a creative endeavor, it does not mean that you are doing it wrong.
It does not mean that you are failing. Or, that you don’t know what you are doing. It does not mean that you are a terrible artist. And, it most certainly does not mean that what you are creating is awful.
Art making can be very challenging and difficult at times for every artist, amateur to professional.
If you are having difficulty creating, what it probably means is that you are challenging yourself by attempting something either new, or something out of your comfort zone or beyond your skill level. But it does not mean that you can’t find the joy.
Sometimes art making is just not fun. Creating is hard work on a good day.
However, joy can be found even in the most difficult task.
Please consider not ever shying away from trying something difficult just because it may or may not be fun. More often than not, creating is not going to be fun. And, it may not seem that enjoyable. But, the enjoyment is there. In the challenge. In the opportunity. In the learning. In the attempt.
If you are attempting something new or difficult or challenging, you will be making missteps. But you will also be learning. And, you will be involved in the activity of creating. Which is, in itself, a glorious activity. Right?
The most challenging pursuits are the most meaningful.
I have found that whenever I am trying something difficult and not having any fun, my focus is sharpened. My concentration is more intense. My ability to learn is heightened.
Of course, there will be many, many times when creating will be fun and joyous.
This is all just part of the journey of the artist and what the creative practice is all about.
When things are not going your way, and you are not having fun, it does not mean that you are doing it wrong. Focus on finding the joy. If you are not having fun, it is usually your thoughts about what is going on, rather than your actions.
Best,
David
Quotes from the Create Anyway Collective (12-week program, currently in progress):
"I was overwhelmed with the beauty of your breakthrough and all of the connectivity that was happening. That moment was a realization of something I envisioned being possible in the Collective. I think it was a dream come true moment. It was brimming over with good things."
~ C. Jordan Blaquera, Co-Creator, The Create Anyway Collective, Week 7"What an engaging, grueling, inspiring experience this CAC is! I look forward to every session."
~ Participating CAC Artist, Week 7, when sending in work for an In-Depth Critique"I just wanted to thank you for your brilliant “modification” to the schedule. Allowing everyone to check in and share their thoughts, feelings and progress was really beautiful. I feel it further cemented the connection between us all. I am thankful I am part of the group and look forward to the next half of the CAC!"
~ Marilyn D, CAC Artist, Week 7To learn more about the Create Anyway Collective or to get on the Wait List for the next CAC program, click here.