what I really want to do, announcing..

As an artist, I face the constant struggle between how to gain recognition and success (in the eyes of others) and being true to myself. It’s quite the battle when frequently it feels like the process is easier for everyone else—which, of course is not true.

I know it is a process, difficult, exciting, tedious, occasionally discouraging, and  often inspiring.  Strange how that sounds like most great things in life?

The truth is, I love selling my art.  I love sharing it with others.  I love  seeing that someone across the world find merit in my work.  But, frankly, it’s not about the money.  It can’t be.  The moment I sit down to create something that would sell, I lose the inspiration.  Internally, it’s no longer fun.   It’s an obligation, which is why I don’t do custom work (incase you were wondering).

What is important to me is creating art, to take the inspiration from my heart and my head and translate it to the canvas.  I want to create art that shares truth, beauty, mystery, love, hope, goodness, emotion, and life.  I want it to speak volumes in no words at all.  I want to honor my maker by sharing the beauty of his world.

I find great success and encouragement in living an inspired, artistic, and genuine life, so that someone else may be encouraged to believe that THEY are creative, that they are talented, and that they have great potential to achieve impressive things.  I get SO excited about this.  I got  a message the other that a friend of mine bought canvases, paints, and brushes, because she wanted to paint more.  I heard from a friend who told me that she was so inspired by the lyrics of a song that she wanted to paint something with those words and hang it in her living room.  Another friend just started a blog, because she wanted to share great recipes with her friends and family.  Another dear friend decided she needed a new creative outlet and is making a headpiece for derby day inspired by a fantastic milliner.

I love it.  I really, really do.  It’s so easy to start.  It just takes a bit of time to discover a new interest.  It just takes a bit of gumption to try sometime new.  It just takes an ounce of desire to rise above the possibility of failure and take the plunge.

I know we’re all busy, so busy.  I know there are ten million things to do and even more people who want your time and attention, but, I believe that people make time for the things they love to do.

So, I’m starting a new project here on the Saturated Palette and I really would love it if you join me. 

What:  Project: Ten for Creativity

When:  Starting Monday, April 19, 2010

Where:  HERE, Saturated Palette. (saturatedpalette.blogspot.com)

Goal:  Jumpstart imagination. Gather inspiration.  Go create.

Each weekday, I will share a fun, simple idea of how to  find inspiration and engage in creativity.  Most of these ideas can be done at home, with few supplies, mostly things you already have.

Ask yourself, what new adventures you’d like to try.  Dream.  Scheme.  Start looking around your home and gather supplies. Find a box, a drawer, a journal,  or a folder… anything to collect your projects.  Tell your friends.  Spread the word.  Aspire. Create.  Ten minutes a day.

Project: Ten for Creativity, will you take ten?

-olivia