Today I read the concept somewhere that an artist who likes their own
work is not a good artist. I think that is a terrible message. Some of the
artists whose work I love the most clearly enjoy everything about making
their work, and are super happy with it once it’s completed.
In my own life some of my best work in terms of portraits just leapt off
the brush, and onto the canvas so easily and effortlessly. It’s almost magic
when that happens, and as an artist you don’t dislike the work more because
it happened in such a delightful way. That’s a prohibitive point of view.
I’m not suggesting that the work is of lesser value because it takes a long
time, a lot of thought, and even layers and layers of struggle to get it right.
But from my own experience when it does come together -- it still gives the
artist so much joy. Well it certainly makes me happy when I keep going.
The painting I'm showing you tonight was one that took time to create.
It was displayed in a show supporting an nature reserve in The Netherlands,
and came home and sold for one of my top prices. So yes I was happy
when I completed it. And ecstatic when the rest of the story unfolded.
Have an enjoying your art day.
4 comments:
'artist who likes their own work is not a good artist'
Bollocks!! who ever said that is an idiot
Hi Jennifer Rose,
The person who said it was not an idiot, but a very good artist. It's
an opinion, but thankfully I disagree with it. I do know many artists
who are excellent, and don't know it, or appreciate their own work,
but I'm happy to say that I know more who do enjoy their work, and
feel proud when it's done.
Love your work!
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO Barbara
opinion sure, but one that might put a lot of younger unconfident artists not to create sadly
Hi Jennifer Rose,
That is part of what I thought. Art is a hard career it's true. But the pleasure
part is huge. Loving making art, loving exhibiting it, so many good things about the
life.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO Barbara
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