One of the pieces in progress in my studio right now. This is a good example of having the abstract collage, and painted ground complete. Now things are going to get interesting. And way more risky. Stay tuned. © 2021 David Limrite

“Lifeless Approach = Lifeless Art. The emotion and passion had to come from me, and I needed to inject that into my work.”
David Limrite, from “Create Anyway”

Be Willing To Eat Dirt

OK. So here it is. I have 5 new paintings started in my studio. “Started” means that they have their collage and abstract painted grounds on them.

Now, the risky part begins.

At least this is what I am telling myself.

The “risky part” is the part where I now have to draw and paint the figures into and on top of these grounds in order to express and convey my concepts.

The lines and brushstrokes are going to matter now.

I am being timid because now I have to trust that my skills and talents will allow me to realize my vision, and allow me to create what I want to create.

I have painted and drawn the figure all of my adult creative life, but I am telling myself that these are really important paintings and that they really matter.

As a result, I am freaking myself out a bit.

So, in response to my exasperation with my timid self, I made the realization that in order for me to move forward, I have to change my thinking. I decided that the better approach is to just begin and not care whether I mess them up or not. Just start and see what happens.

And then deal with the results.

In order for me to move forward, I have to not care what happens. This approach will be uncomfortable at first. I may feel inadequate for awhile. There is the distinct possibility of failure. I must allow myself to be vulnerable. And, yes, I may embarrass myself.

I call this, “Being Willing To Eat Dirt.”

Show up. Begin. Try my best. Fall down. Get back up. Keep going. Try again. Until I find a way in.

I have to be willing to eat some dirt when I fall.

And, most importantly, I have to be willing to stay in the arena.

( I will keep you posted on how this approach goes for me).

Best,

David