SCREWING UP CREATES OPPORTUNITY
It was a nice challenge to twist this figure around and distort it a bit, while still making it believable. There is an emotional tone to this one that I really like. “Untitled File Folder Drawing”, 18”x12”, acrylic, charcoal, spray paint and pencil on file folder. © 2020 David Limrite
“I shut my eyes in order to see.”
Paul Gauguin, Artist
Screwing Up Creates Opportunity
I make a lot of stuff. I am very productive. I am not saying this to brag, but to help make a point. I have created what I consider to be a few “excellent” pieces over the years. I have created a fair amount of “good” pieces. And, I have created a lot of “bad” pictures.
I have also screwed up many, many paintings. It comes with the territory. Some of these screw ups I have been able to resurrect, some I ended up painting over, and some just had to be trashed.
Because of all the picture making I engage in, I have developed the ability to have little or no fear of screwing up. My work just is not that precious. If I screw up, I just make another. And, I always learn something.
When I screw up a painting, I chalk it up to experience, try to learn from the misstep and look for the opportunity for another adventure. It’s all just paint, charcoal, canvas and paper. Right?
Sometimes the opportunity exists right there in the piece I just messed up. Sometimes what happened on the surface of this painting was something I just wasn’t expecting. It may have looked like a mistake at first, but actually shoved me in an unexpected direction, which I probably would have not gone down that path without screwing up. Without a little help. Without a little nudge.
Usually, when I screw up, it is because I am pushing my medium and my current talents to go beyond what they can do, or what I can make them do.
The other thing that really helps me is that I believe my creativity matters. I believe in my ability to right the ship, to get myself and the painting back on track, and get back in the game, with a minimal amount of damage. I believe in my ability to be able to rework, adjust, correct, redo and try to make it work.
Sometimes I am not able to create what I want to create, but I always have the confidence that I can. I try not to engage in self-doubt whenever possible. Self-doubt never seems to serve me well.
This confidence was built over time. By working hard. By making a lot of paintings.By always being willing to try. With conviction, determination, persistence and perseverance. And, by riding all the ups and downs that come with being a creator.
And, by never giving up. Ever!
And, by always looking for opportunities instead of anticipating mistakes.
Best,
David
Quotes from the Create Anyway Collective (12-week program, currently in progress):
"When you [work fast], your brain can’t participate. That takes your brain out of it. So that’s not a bad exercise every once in a while. You can put a timer on if you want to. Do some quick things balanced out with doing some slower, longer things."
~ David Limrite, Lightning Critique Session in the CAC"I've wanted to make my voice more present in my work...it's just starting to be present... So happy I've joined you. You always do great work and are inspiring many to your credit!!!"
~ Participating CAC Artist (on why she joined the CAC)"Thanks for today’s session. I’m looking forward to the next few weeks…it seems to be a great supportive group. And the support from both of you create a safe and friendly atmosphere for risk and growth."
~ Participating CAC Artist, Bonus SessionTo learn more about the Create Anyway Collective or to get on the Wait List for the next CAC program, click here.