MY HEART VS. MY BRAIN
File Folder Drawing #6, 18”x 12”, pencil and acrylic on file folder. © 2020 David Limrite
“The greater danger for most of us lies, not in setting our aim too high and falling short, but in setting our aim too low and achieving our mark.”
Michelangelo, Artist
My Heart vs My Brain
My heart and my brain are fighting with each other. About what kind of art I should, or should not, be making.
My heart says to continue making the moody, dark and emotionally wrought figures that I love to make (and am known for). Because they seem even more relevant right now.
But my brain says that I should be creating more uplifting, inspiring and positive imagery. My heart does not really even know what that means or what those images might look like. My brain argues that what people need and want right now is uplifting art.
My heart wants to know, “How does my brain know what the world needs and wants right now?”
My heart is committed to creating the kind of art that I make. It reminds me that I have always tried to draw and paint from an emotional point of view. And, if that means that the work is dark, moody and brooding, then that’s what it is. I do what I do.
So… I think my heart is going to win this one.
I think honesty and authenticity are what helps us stay true to ourselves. And, I think my art does that. In its own way.
I know that my art is not for everyone. That it may be too emotional for many who are feeling especially raw and vulnerable during these difficult times. But, my heart believes that it will find its audience. The audience who needs to see it. And, when they do, they will respond to it.
So, for now, I am siding with my heart. I am going to continue to make images that reflect how I feel emotionally.
If you are having this same battle, I hope that reading about the internal struggle that I am having between my heart and my brain will resonate with you and help you clarify and make decisions about the kind of art you want to be making right now. Whether it is uplifting or deeply emotional. There is room for it all.
Best,
David