I keep trying to distil my varied thoughts on the significance of art practice down to the simplest concept. And a few mornings ago, while walking through the forest, it was more clear. It struck me how we (broader society) are actually saying that if you can’t paint, draw, sing or dance really well, you’re not allowed to do it. Or, at least, we don’t want to see or hear you do it!
Natural state
And then I immediately think of young children because this is the time when we are closest to our natural state. Before we become self-conscious and subjugated by societal conditioning. We just do that creative stuff! Why? Because we want to! Remember yourself as a young child?
Personal meaning
Do we want a world in which only the best get to ply their craft, to express and create, while the masses endure a dull and barren existence? A world in which we merely consume what is prescribed for us? If someone wants to paint and they are doing it because they enjoy it, and it has meaning and is of benefit to them, then they should be heartily encouraged.
Freedom
In some ways we are emerging from the era of the guru, idol, and icon of perfection and forging a new era in which we tune into and value our own wisdom, abilities and creative potential.
So sing, dance, paint, sculpt – create whatever, and share it! Do it because you love the process. And through this process you will also grow AND show others that they have the freedom to do the same!
Does this resonate with you? I would love to hear your insights and experiences!
Hi Wendy
Hope you are safe and well. I really enjoyed this and I’m finding it very relevant to my state of mind right now.
In my profession as a working graphic designer, everything has to be so perfect. Recently I am feeling stunted creatively. When I do just want to dabble, because my doodles aren’t ‘perfect’ then I stop doing them. It’s like my ‘professional brain’ is ruining the fun.
Anyway, I will just keep at it and hopefully find a way to switch the other brain ‘off’.
Take care
Leigh
Thank you for sharing, dear Leigh! I think the quest for perfection really steals our joy and derails our creative process. Fortunately, you are able to identify where it’s coming from and realise that it’s simply conditioning, how you’ve come to think about what art should be. This is why I like to work with my body, and do specific practices that help me to shift my mental and emotional state. And it’s from that place that I experience a sense of surrender, acceptance and enjoyment.
What would happen if you approached your work with a sense of curiosity at what might emerge, rather than a sense of expectation?
Sending you much love X
I absolutely love watching people who cannot sing or dance well but who love doing it. I think because when people can do it well it is too clear why they do it. But when they don’t do it well, you can see they do it because it brings them pure enjoyment. Does it make sense?
Yes, it makes perfect sense!! I think there’s something in us that responds to that rawness, like a primal instinct. We know that they are not performing for us, but doing it for themselves. Maybe we admire their inhibition and ability to just go with their feelings. It’s refreshing and liberating!
I feel a similar way when I hear people heartily laugh. It’s like you can be happy for them because they are experiencing joy.
Thanks for sharing your insight, Lily. X
A friend shared this blog post with me from a few years back, and it’s so relevant to my post and our conversation. Take a look: http://blog.dada.nyc/2017/11/art-is-by-everyone-for-everyone/