You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.
You're on your own.
And you know what you know.
You are the guy who'll decide where to go. ~Dr. Seuss
I have never been one to promote myself. While I was growing up the children's accomplishments in our home were never recognized. The opposite was true with heavy criticism dished out at every opportunity and all creativity squashed. I am not blaming my difficulties on my parents, but I have to recognize how I got to where I am today. I remember a drawing I did as a child, and I was so happy with it, I practically begged my grandmother to put it on the wall; she kept promising to do it, but never did and I don't recall sharing any more of my pictures with her or anyone else after that. Being the center of attention and applauded for my successes made me feel uncomfortable at the rare times it did happen, but at a deep level I ached for it. I attempted to satisfy that desire with being funny--one attribute that folks didn't seem to mind and it got me the attention I craved. There was also fear at work in my life--fear of rejection. Fear of being myself--that I would somehow be found lacking.
After I started painting in earnest, I was afraid to approach the prestigious galleries to show my art. I felt that my education credits were pathetic. Until I went to a community college in my late thirties, I was self -taught --from library books; by then I had been drawing and painting for 20 years--my bio didn't read too well next to those with lofty accomplishments. I also didn't have much confidence in my ability. I did show my work, but in rinky-dink places where nobody shopped. But about 10 years ago I started showing my paintings in places around town; I sold some paintings and my confidence soared. I became quite productive. However I let circumstances of the last couple of years erode at my confidence and motivation and I am having to fight to get them back. But I am becoming quite the dragon slayer now. Maybe that will be my new moniker--Phoenix the Dragon Slayer--she is rising from her ashes with an attitude.
Damn those voices that say I should be shy and retiring. In order to be a success, I have to sell myself--just like the grocer advertises and sells his canned green beans. In a sudden fit of boldness, I created an art page in my Face Book account and already have sold two paintings. Yea!! Watch out everyone, Maxie is on her way.
This painting is Blue Iris. I renamed it The Dance like it because it seems to be moving--maybe moving towards great accomplishments, or at least towards the sun.
Perfectly exquisite, pretty much the norm around here. You are a prodigious talent, Maxie, and need only to be found to be recognized. Smiles.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the kind words. You made me smile.
ReplyDeleteI like it, too. I would definitely buy one of your paintings if I saw it (and could swing it financially!).
ReplyDeleteHello Sue, I appreciate your comment. I have an art page in Face Book, with most of my work showing, if you want to look at it. It is called, "Art of Maxie Lee." Your site is delightful.
ReplyDelete