Art & Encouragement

@colleenkr2

Behind the scenes: the story of making prints, part 1 Yes, it is COLD, now that January’s here! #canada #art #artist #artprints #canadianartist #business #smallbusiness #thunderbay #canadianbusiness #design #winter #cold #femaleartist #womensart #canadiangirl #water

♬ Takin’ Care Of Business – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

It would be easier if I was the kind of artist who painted at home and didn’t share my work. By easier, I mean that I wouldn’t risk putting myself “out there” – when I post pictures of my work, I expose myself. I feel raw. I hope that people will like my pictures, and when I create prints, I hope people want to buy them.

There’s always a chance they won’t, and that possibility is almost enough to prevent me from sharing my work. Did someone see my work and just scroll past? Is it my work they don’t like? Is it me? Is my work too simple? Too expressive?

But at some point (after the ruthless anxiety has had its fun), I remember how happy I am when I create. And although my worth doesn’t depend on the opinion of others, it brings me so much joy when other people like my work too.

So, on I go. gathering courage from the scraps I find littered around my heart when anxiety sleeps. From the encouragement of friends (is that why “courage” is part of that word??). From experience, and from hope. Because, hey – we’re here to live the best life we can and sometimes it takes a brave step forward.