The Journey to Becoming an Artist

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” 
- Pablo Picasso 

When I was a preschool art teacher, I would love to see children naturally gravitate towards colors and creating things of their own.  The children would proudly talk about what they made and have such joy in their hearts when they shared their art with their families and their friends. Their art was displayed on the walls of the school and their home refrigerator. They had abundant curiosity when they played with paints, papers, fibers, items from nature and any other thing with which they could create something new.  There were no words of “I can’t” or “It’s not good enough” or “I’m not an artist” – the children’s love for their art was untainted. How many times have we told ourselves negative things which have extinguished our true creativity and joy? How can we capture and understand that our true joy comes from within ourselves and not from the world outside of us? How can we better listen, discover and nurture what truly calls us in life?  

I have always kept art close to my heart, not only for inspiration to help me get through difficult times,  but also to celebrate the blessings in life. Ever since I was young, I have lost all sense of time in creative endeavors.  I often reflect on joyful childhood memories of looking through my mother’s collection of art books, playing with paintbrushes, watching her sketch, hearing the sounds of her palette knife scraping a canvas and smelling the remnants of oil paints and linseed oil in the room. Art is such an emotional and multi-sensory experience!  

Several years ago, I listened to the whispers in my heart and took some classes at a local art center. I reconnected with my creative joy as I learned from some incredible teachers and fellow art students.  Each week I shared my artwork with loved ones and then I posted it on social media to encourage others to explore and pursue their interests. Over the next several years I would play in the arts for my own creative journey and with each step, I was encouraged to share my art and make it available for others.  Change is hard and uncomfortable at times, but you ALWAYS have a choice. You can let fear, self-doubt, worry and the negative chatter keep you stuck right where you are or you can embrace your strengths, your talents, your gifts, and your possibilities. Believe throughout changes, growth can be welcomed. When thoughts of doubt and possibilities swirl together in your mind—choose what is possible. Find the encouragers and the positive mentors in your life. 

Don’t let fear and panic invade your strength. It is through connection we can make a difference in each other’s lives. Remember to bring the gifts of enthusiasm, kindness, and possibility wherever you go.  By silencing your inner-critic, you can create joy, be a helper, truly connect with others and LOVE abundantly. There is no greater experience.