In the past couple of weeks, I have experienced what you could describe as 'artists block'.. It seems that every time I take a brand new canvas out of the packet, I sit there staring at it - and when I eventually do put paint on it, things don't really turn out like I imagined they would. There have been paintings that I am just too embarrassed to show you! I look around at all the amazing art out there, I desperately wish that my art was being as successful as some of the other Etsians - I know it takes time, and I think all of this looking over the fence is more unsettling than inspiring at the moment. I can't seem to settle with one style, one medium - one day I might paint, the next I sit drawing on the computer, today I made a sculpture.. I often look at my sewing machine wishing I was sewing.So I have been trying to pinpoint the cause of this creative block, and I think it comes down to one thing - fear. How often does the fear of failing hold us back? I know it often holds me back from reaching my highest potential, and I'd like to overcome that. Sometimes the path isn't always clear, in my case I feel that there isn't one. It is a lot of trial and error, painstakinly carving a pathway, teaching myself and trying to figure out what will work best for me. I like that saying - "If you can't find a way, make one". Thats exactly what this ostrich did!
Who said I can't? The new print is available on Etsy!
Who said I can't? The new print is available on Etsy!
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I love this. I think I'm in a balloon moment right now since so many of them still reside in my home (still floating after 12 days!).
ReplyDeleteFear is definitely a big factor. That and the thought of disappointing yourself and others. But don't hold back. If you fail then do it again, or try something new. You're so creative and talented that I'm sure you'll succeed. Plus things always happen for a reason.
wishing you inspiration
xo
This is BEAUTIFUL, Deanna! You are very talented and have nothing to be afraid of. It's funny that we've both been having the same "artist's block" feeling lately. I think it means we're experiencing a learning curve and are on the verge of something great.
ReplyDeleteAwww thankyou both for the encouragement! There's a lot of factors I think are contributing to the lack of creative 'juices' at the moment, but I hope you're right Cathy, and something great is coming! I've been in limbo for months and months and would welcome some direction!
ReplyDeleteOMG that is so me. I make my art according to what iam going through. so i have a new piece that says "be yourself " b/c im always comparing my self to more successful artist and feeling down on myself.... and i did a givingstone "face your fears". its something most artist must go through, but we always push through somehow..love your work.
ReplyDeleteHi I'm new to your blog- I found you through Cathy Nichol's blog today.
ReplyDeleteYou certainly are not alone in how you are feeling- I've recently started painting again (after a very long break) and confidence and fear are the 2 things holding me back. But you're right you cannot let fear stop you from doing something you love. Also don't try and settle with one style- I know it's tempting as people will then associate your work with one style but in doing that you are limiting yourself also and that is such a shame. I have many different styles and worried about it like you are but I've finally decided that, that's just a part of me- who I am and that's ok. Your work is lovely- keep on experimenting with different styles- don't let it worry you and when you do get stuck I often think to myself "what would I love to do today?" rather than what should I be doing today and normally I get an answer straight away be it sewing, painting or drawing.
Hi! Its always exciting to meet new people via my blog, so welcome Michelle and Little Brown Rabbit, I've enjoyed checking out your work as well! I think the best thing about feeling the way I do, is that I'm not alone - you've all shown me that! Its encouraging to hear from you all. I like that question "What would I love to do today?".. I think I will be adopting that one too. Thanks!
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