Blog 4:12:20 Copyright 2020 David Limrite Artist Teacher Coach Mentor Over-Compensating.jpg

Finally found my figurative groove again. I just had to push through and keep at it. I call it “Mystery Figure” because I really do not know where it came from. I may have a new series on my hands. “Untitled” Mystery Figure No 2, 16”x 12”, pencil, acrylic and collage on wood. © 2020 David Limrite

“You get whatever accomplishment you are willing to declare.”
Georgia O’Keefe, Artist

Accomplishment

Well, Ms. O'Keeffe, I'm declaring CRITIQUE WEEK an accomplishment.

Fourteen critiques. Seven days. Ninety artists.

The daily 30-minute sessions were the highlight of my days last week as well as many of the artists who participated (according to their own feedback).

I'm so glad we came together to connect around a shared passion for creativity. The participants all truly inspired me.

Over-Compensating

I think I figured out why I have been having such difficulty creating my mixed media figurative pieces. I thought it might have been because of this whole social distancing thing. I have only been out of the house twice in the past three weeks. And as a result, I have not seen that many people. I thought maybe the lack of connection with other people had disrupted the connection I normally have with my art.

And, while this may be a contributing factor, I think the real reason is this: Because things are so bad, and negative, and scary, and ugly out there right now, I feel as if my figurative work has to be extra beautiful. I think I have to create greatness to balance out all the fear, worry, distress and anxiety in the world. I feel as if everything I create must be beautiful, amazing and perfect.

Aren’t those some crazy thoughts? Talk about putting extra pressure on myself to be perfect. No wonder I have not been happy with my recent figurative work. Until now! (See the above photo).

I decided it was in my best interest to let those thoughts go and just make my stuff. Just do what I do. And, not worry about whether it is good or bad, right or wrong, perfect or flawed.

Once I was able to make this mindset shift, I was able to get back to working with the figure.

I would love to hear about how current events are affecting your art and creativity.

Stay well and be healthy.

David