Monday, April 19, 2010

enthusiasm is grounded in play, not work

I recently decided that I would drop off the Daily Painter's Gallery blog. My work has been appearing on there for many years and I would have to say that much of my early success in the blogsphere was due to exposure there. So it was hard to decide to not participate. Its probably not that big a deal, but I have felt pressure to "perform" because of the expectation the online gallery creates. I haven't been painting those small paintings though I do paint daily. Most of my work is focused on gallery pieces. And sometimes, too much on that.

When reading chapters 8 and 9 the last couple of weeks, I was struck by this -
"The discipline itself, not the creative outflow, becomes the point."
I know some artists, especially since this "daily painting" phenomenon, believe they cannot stop, that they have to paint/produce something every day - especially in order to sell on their blogs.

I think that some artists who do the "daily paintings" can get stuck in a rut, or put out work that is not the best just for the sake of being seen... I don't want to do that. I do not want to judge a work by whether its "good enough for the blog" or "good enough for $100."

Since the new year, and beginning this book, I've relaxed a lot in my work and allowed myself to change gears, to experiment a little more, and to focus on what I love. So it seems logical to remove the pressure to create something to meet other's expectations.

"That part of us that creates best is not a driven, disciplined automation, functioning from willpower, with a booster of pride to back it up. Over any extended period of time, being an artist requires enthusiasm more than discipline."

- Robin

Monday, April 12, 2010

remember when...

I was reading and posting?
I've been implementing more than reading. The book really did help me immensely and I am reminding myself as I begin each new day at the easel to think about those comments about perfectionism. I've relaxed so much more and am enjoying my work. Its interesting to me what an impact reading that section had on me. I suppose others might have a similar response to some other parts. Its nice that she covers so many possible blocks to the creative spirit and offers so much in the way of overcoming those blocks.

My days are so full this month that I have a hard time working in anything else, so my reading is on hold. My hope to do this in 12 to 16 weeks has stretched out further and further. But I am still picking it up and underlining key ideas for me. Just not writing about them much.

-- Robin
 
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