I share the Apple Textures 2 painting only because it’s a recent loan out–to a children’s art class, so they can see (and feel) an actual piece of art. Better with them than under the bed. (Click it for larger view.)
As creators, one of the things we need to get over is the inhibition to share what we’ve created. It can all be part of the psychological hangup from which, in fact, art making (of any kind) can help set us free.
Art is made to be viewed. Without that, the process isn’t complete.
Okay, there are practices, or failed attempts, or half-finished works that aren’t ready for walls, and maybe never will be.
And there can be a challenge for the prolific where there just aren’t enough walls available to hold the large production . . . at least not yet.
Where you put your art in the meantime can be a challenge.
For this I’ve sometimes thought of designing “Beds for Artists” with telescopic legs. The more paintings you put under the bed, the higher you can raise it. As accessories I’d offer a ladder, and a rail to keep from falling when sleeping near the ceiling.
But paintings are meant for walls, not for under beds.
At whatever level our development, we need to get used to sharing what we do. Inhibition only kills the spirit. We need feedback from our friends. We need the encouragement to keep the courage up to continue to improve. Most people will celebrate our progress. If nothing else we may be providing the example to others to also take seriously their God-given gift.
Remember what Jesus said, “Let them see your good works . . . and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Let them see your good works. Or at least your best works. Well then, your most recent works . . .
Don’ t hide them. That serves no one.
So, get over yourself. Eschew false humility. Do your work and share it. Until it’s viewed, the process is incomplete.
Don’t wait until your works are perfect. We could never make a bed that high.
Our Lives Together
Its About Life
11:58 am
Thanks Hyatt!!
12:20 pm
How great! And I might say, I’d never been able to see God develop His gifts in me if I had waited until I did them the perfect way….as you well know – none of the things I do are done the way “most people” do them. You’ve just given me more food for thought, and I promise I’ll use it (and not put it under the bed!) Bless you and Anne…you are such inspirations to all of us.
12:26 pm
Mabel, No one would know you do everything you do with just one arm. Even as a piano maestro!
12:39 pm
Agreed!
1:15 pm
Truth and humor hit the mark!
1:47 pm
In my mind I can see the bed rising and rising and the ceiling lowering as we hide the gift given to us by the Lord.
I have come to think that there is a reason for cathedral ceilings so there will be a humongous triangle of yours and others works to enjoy…
5:35 pm
Great thoughts, Hyatt. We all need the reminder. And a big “HI” to our friend Mildred.
4:52 am
Thanks Hyatt. I really needed this right now. Since most of my paintings are copies, I have hesitated to share them with anybody. I’ve got two friends (an artist and an art teacher) who really want to see my work but I’ve put off for months taking anything to show either of them, much less put it out for the public to see.
Putting it in a Biblical perspective helps get over that self-imposed barrier.
12:10 pm
Bravo! Couldn’t agree more……….now, to get those paintings out from under several beds!!
7:29 am
Thanks for the encouragement, Hyatt. Something I needed to see and hear myself repeat. I often want to throw my paintings away about midway through. Sometimes I set it aside for months. Since my brother-in-law died (1 1/2 years ago) I haven’t painted-his was the last portrait I did. Last week I got my stuff out and got as far as the background–had to stop. I’ll get back to it, but just had to thank you for inspiring me to bring it out again. You are a blessing!
Aida
5:38 pm
LOVED THIS HYATT! AGAIN, LOVE YOUR HUMOR!! AND ALL IS SOOOO TRUE! BLESSINGS! LISA
9:56 am
I’ve been thinking lately about freedom and art. And how fear can be a strong variable in art making. To paint freely with emotion rather than focusing on accomplishing perfect aesthetics. But to paint for people rather than for myself, or even more, for God, brings fear and confinements. Yet I agree with you wholly that sharing completes the process. I just read recently that most people in Emily Dickinson’s lifetime thought she was a gardener and not a poet. But by reading her story, I could tell she was yearning for her work to be read by others yet she didn’t really put out the effort to get her work out.
6:47 am
you made me giggle Hyatt. I hide some under my bed, but most is in my closet:)