10/24
I wrote this the other night after attending another artist event. I always feel a combination of distaste and commiseration when I go to events full of artists orbiting each others work like small children begging for attention. It’s a weird combination of silliness and seriousness, this artist journey.
From a few entries distilled into this journal entry 10/24
To think like an artist is to embrace a mindset that dances along the edge of perception, to delve into the world with an intensity that pierces the mundane and reveals the extraordinary. It is an invitation to look deeply, not merely with the eyes but with the soul, to listen intently to the whispers of life that often go unheard. In this act of immersive observation, one discovers the beauty hidden in the overlooked—a glimmer of light on a dew-laden leaf, the laughter of children weaving through the air, the shadows that play upon the walls of our existence.
Yet, the artist knows that to create is not a mechanical act but a passionate affair with inspiration. Your best work, the work that resonates with the core of your being, is the one that ignites a fire within you. It is born from the wellspring of your excitement, the bubbling enthusiasm that propels you to the canvas or the page. Each stroke of the brush, each word penned, is a testament to that fervor, a celebration of your unique vision. It is vital to honor this thrill, for it is the heartbeat of true artistry.
To cultivate this vibrant spirit, one must practice their art daily. Art is not merely a pastime to be indulged in sporadically; it is a commitment, a relationship that requires nurturing and attention. Each day offers a fresh canvas, a new opportunity to explore, to create, and to grow. In the rhythm of practice, one finds not only improvement but also a deepening connection to their craft, a dialogue with the muse that whispers in the quiet hours.
Yet, in a world that often equates worth with validation, an artist must guard against the temptation to create for the applause of others. True artistry is a solitary pursuit, driven by an internal compass rather than the external cheers of the crowd. It flourishes in the authenticity of expression, unencumbered by the need for approval. Instead of seeking validation, one must focus on the act of creation itself, allowing the work to speak for its own merit.
Moreover, amidst the fervor of creation, one must carve out time for nothingness. In the stillness, in the quiet moments of idleness, the mind unfurls like a flower, allowing space for ideas to blossom. It is in these pauses that the seeds of inspiration are sown, where daydreams can take flight and imagination can roam free. The artist, then, becomes not just a maker but a seeker, finding beauty in both creation and contemplation.
To think like an artist is to embrace a holistic approach to life—a way of being that honors the depths of experience, the joy of creation, and the necessity of stillness. It is an invitation to dance with the world around us, to weave our own narrative into the fabric of existence, and to celebrate the exquisite complexity of being alive. In this pursuit, we find not just artistry but a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place within this grand tapestry.
