Anytime you go out of your comfort zone you are probably going to encounter Fear. As a Christian I know where my heart is and comfort truly lies. However, it still is only being honest to admit that in art I do suffer from fear on many a day.
Recently a friend loaned me a book, not knowing the struggles I have been privately battling. The book really got my attention when I saw the title, ART & FEAR. How can you not be intrigued and when she told me it was a quick read I knew I had to take some holiday down time and give it a look.
David Bayless, one of the co authors of the book warns that most people who begin work in art soon loose heart and quit. He list an operating manual to avoid being a quitter and it really struck home with me.
A. Make friends with others who make art, and share your in-progress work with each other frequently.
B. Learn to think of (A) rather than the Museum of Modern Art, as the destination of your work.
Now this was powerful for me. So to direct this into real terms that fit where I am, I realize I need to stay in class, not just for instruction and guidance, but more for the fellowship of other artist! The most encouragement I get is from those who know and love me, and other artist that see my work in classes and workshops.
So that sets up my New Year's Promise to myself with:
Goal #1 -- Stay in situations, classes, workshops, critiques, clubs and any other opportunities to be with artist who are there for inspiration, comfort, cheer, encouragement, urging, favor, helpfulness and all those other terms to describe support!
Even when the cash is tight, I will see if I can rub a few nickels together and continue with my classes. Of course the big daddy of all is coming up at the end of the month and even though this is considered a chance of a lifetime class, it still is no more important that the once every Tuesday or Thursday class I set in each week.
Thank you Father for such opportunity.
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