I love the beginning of the book A Proven Strategy for Creating Great Art by Dan McCaw. This book is written from the point-of-view of a painter, but he encourages the artist in us all.
Art is not something we learn to do but instead is a search to uncover and express that which already exists within all of us. We are the art. What we are searching for is our inner voice. I believe that most of us protect, deny or under-value this intrinsic voice, but we all have one. It’s that part of us that, when touched, moves our emotions and tugs at our hearts. It’s that part of us that responds to a painting a piece of music a beautiful scene. These things do not contain emotions, but only bring to the surface that which we already possess, both as the artist and as the art appreciator.
… We must learn to let go, surrender and trust that if we open our hearts, we will be destined to express the art that lies within us.
Does this speak to you as it does to me? Are you denying or encouraging your creativity?
Dawn,
I just read your post on (in)courage, and that is how I found your site here. Thanks for the info on the app– it sounds great!
I appreciate the article above. “We are the art”. I think for so long I denied or stifled my creative side, and I let other things in life stifle that part of me. I’m working on a better balance!
Also I had to comment, because after reading your profile on the sidebar, I wanted to tell you that just yesterday I attended a Kelby seminar on Photoshop! And I just joined NAPP– I see that you are a “NAPP evangelist”! LOL! 🙂 Looking forward to my first issue of the magazine that comes with the membership. I have an older version of Photoshop, but still found the seminar helpful. There’s so much to learn. I’m not sure what the difference is between Lightroom and Photoshop.
I am a beginner, and am in the market for a new camera … it is coming to me as a gift this year. My 13 year old daughter also attended the seminar with me yesterday; she is interested in developing her photography skills, too. I homeschool as well (with the exception of this past year, when I didn’t)… and seeing you, as a homeschooling mom of 8, and all that you do, is highly encouraging to me.
Nice to meet you! 🙂
Just wanted to let you know I dropped by and was blessed by your blog! Keep up the good work!
Lovely post, Dawn.