Smashing an Artist's Block

 When the world says, "Give up,"
Hope whispers, "Try it one more time."

 Consider the postage stamp:  its usefulness consists in the ability to stick to one thing till it gets there.  ~Josh Billings

A friend told me that she hasn't found any recent posts in my blog, suggesting that I have had a lot to write about lately in regards to my art.  She is right.  The purpose of this blog when I began it, was to overcome a gigantic artist's block so I could start painting again.  Getting from there to here has been a long process involving much more than just writing about my struggles in a blog.  

I sit here at the keyboard inhaling the scent of oil paint; I seemed to have wrestled down that block and beaten it to a pulp.  How I managed that is to think about, talk about and pray about ---art. The unused drawing table--indeed the whole studio-- had become a dumping ground so I first had to clear out the room because clutter creates chaos in my mind. I involved friends in conversation about art, posted comments about it on Face Book  and other sites; I exposed myself and my work to new situations and new people. I stretched myself beyond the limits of my little studio and I took risks.

A friend brought me an application to the art show at the local college and on the day of the show he helped me unload and set up; he cheered me on and told anybody who'd listen about the exhibit.  I met a lot of people in those two days and I sold 3 pieces at modest prices.  In talking with other artists, I learned about a special show at the local gallery "Everything Blooming" and  I took four paintings to exhibit there. The painting of the goldfinch was placed in the front window glowing  for all passing by to see.  I also donated a couple of pictures to fundraisers and was surprised to find at one event that someone had placed next to the painting a copy of a post from this blog as a bio.  My pictures always bring wonderful comments which makes me pretty happy but I know the ability to create comes from the Creator of the universe and I am deeply grateful for that gift, and I give Him the credit every chance I get.

So now I have two paintings underway and had decided to record process of them in Face Book to keep myself accountable.  I am excited to be back on track again and I am planning on a bigger and better studio when I get another house.  This is what I am supposed to be doing.  This is what makes me happy.

I want to thank those who have been part of this recovery process, by reading, following and commenting on this blog, by checking out my other sites and by loving and encouraging me.  This is your victory too.