On the Pain of Creativity

Artists are a different breed.  We are driven to create, but there is an emotional toll to pay.  Always on the line is our insecurity about whether what we do has merit.  I know it's like that for me and for many artists who are honest enough to voice it.  Whether you are a visual artist, musician, actor, dancer, or writer, whatever your artistic discipline, the emotional element of what we do can be a driving force, or can actually be a hindrance to our own success.  Fear of failure, I tell you, can be immobilizing.  I guess that's why the image of the slightly insane, self-destructive artist is so pervasive, and there are so many examples to site.  Whether imploding or exploding, the creative energy needed to do what we do can be fuel or fodder.  And with today's up to the minute social media ready to record and disseminate every misstep or misdeed, there's nowhere to hide.  It's vital that artists support and encourage each other, because it's only other artists who truly understand and appreciate the pains of "birthing" our creations.  Collectively we enhance life not only for ourselves in the act of creating something we can be truly satisfied with, but for our larger community, we enhance the living experience through our toil by producing something others can relate to and in this act, reflect back our collective humanity.

Worry over ancient artifacts and antiquities being damaged in Egypt during the current unrest.

I feel echoes of the events in Iraq following the overthrow of Saddam Hussein, when I watched in horror as museums were looted and priceless antiquities destroyed.  As an artist with a passion for art history, it is very disturbing to hear about museum lootings and damage to ancient artifacts.  The historical significance of such objects can't be measured.  Smashed Tut statues and iconic objects tracing back thousands of years of the history of this cradle of civilization are so upsetting to see.  Unfortunately there will always be those who take advatange of the upheaval happening.  Desperation can lead to such tragic results.  I understand that security has been restored and the safety of these ancient treasures is once again assured. 

Day 1 of Logging volunteer hours in the arts, and Other Things

I've been inspired by Ruth Lawrence, and will begin logging my volunteer hours in the arts and cultural work that I do.  I don't think we are aware as both artists and the public just how much artists do behind the scenes that they don't see an income for.  This promises to be an eye-opener I think! 

I'm also working like mad to finish the paintings for my exhibition "The Sensuality of the Maturing Woman - Celebrating the Fine Art of Aging Well" at The Christina Parker Gallery, which opens on Friday, March 4.  The opening reception begins at 5:30, and I'm so thrilled to have Johnston and Lear, one of my favourite jazz duos, play for the opening.  Another thrill - my friend and colleague Amy House will be offering opening remarks.  This exhibition will be the last show at Christina's historic Plank Road location, as she prepares to open her brand new gallery on Water Street in the very near future.  It promises to be a wonderful evening of celebration on many fronts.