It’s not Rocket Science
I realize that it is not the goal of most artists to just paint and explore the world of being creative. Most artists need to include that dimension of earning a living to support their journey into the wonderful world of the creative community. Most of us artists live in that reality. There are bills, housing costs, food and medical expenses that have to be paid. Still, being an artist, we need a large portion of time and energy to execute our craft. If we must ear a living, why not doing what we love? It’s not rocket science.
For Me Things Have Changed.
Previously, I declared myself an outsider in relation to the art world. I have come to see the present system as broken and nobody inside cares to fix it. I am, of course, referring to that world of art where money, exclusivity and self glorification have taken priority over things like the true value of art and the artist. Where is the welcome mat of inclusion at the door of joy in the house of creativity?
Man Overboard
I want to make art my way, like artists do, and not be another deckhand rearranging the chairs on a sinking ship. So for what ever it costs me, I’ve gone outsider on the whole gig.
Life of Art
In all honesty, I’m 74 years old and for almost all of those years art, in some form, has been a part of my life. I started painting at 11, but before that had become pretty good with pencil and pen. When I finally found a “career” job to exercise creativity in, I spent the next 30 years practicing the art of drafting and design. It was very rewarding. After that, my goal was to became more serious about art, especially the art of painting. My artistic focus zoomed in on abstract art. That was my art life for the next 17 years.
Wakey Wakey
Yes, it’s true, I had all those aspirations artists have… to earn a living… a big living, to find my place in the Art World, maybe even become a name recognized among the “famous artists.” Such were the dreams, and you know what the problem with dreams is… Eventually you wake up.
Money is Not Everything
Sun’s shining and it’s a new day… and much of what I’ve said, is water under the bridge by now. I am hardly, more known now than when I started with those dreams. Do I care? I used to. Do I not care anymore? Well I’d like to make money with my art but I really don’t need to. I’ve come to a point where it’s just not that important anymore.
Open the Windows
Whether people buy my art or not is not my focus. I like art. I like being an artist. I like making art. I make it when I want or not. There is a certain freedom in that. I can enjoy life… and believe me, life is a whole lot bigger than art. Don’t dig yourself into a hole or operate in your own personal art rut. Open the windows of life and let in some fresh air. Breathe. Be happy!
Epilogue
This is not exactly where I wanted to go with this blog but I does express my present attitude toward the art world rat race that I am happy now, to have never gotten tangled up with.
Good luck to you rats still out there in the big race, I think you’re going to need it.
Dave
