So, where does a crushed artist heart start - how do we get our mojo back? I'm not entirely sure but I have noticed a pattern that bears looking at more closely. Or rather its my behavioral reaction to a perceived situation that interests me.....and I'm calling it 'Social Pottery'.
Here's the pattern.....
....started art school foundation - creativity was very loose and relaxed - chat with other students, drink coffee, listen to music - feels good.
....assessments begin - creativity formalised and structured - deadlines to be met - feels like a chore.
....started art school BFA - creativity was very loose and relaxed - chat with other students, drink coffee, listen to music - feels good.
....assessments begin - creativity formalised and structured - deadlines to be met - feels like a chore.
....finished art school, started with Potters Society - creativity was very loose and relaxed - chat with other artists, drink coffee, listen to music - feels good.
....exhibitions begin - creativity formalised and structured - deadlines to be met - feels like a chore.
....started working at home on anything that sparks my fancy for no reason at all- creativity is very loose and relaxed - drink coffee, listen to music - feels good.
Could it be that every time I see something that I perceive as 'pressure' or 'formal requirement', I respond with fear and shut down. It is said that a creative block is born of fear and thats true but it seems to me that its also enhanced by perception. Regardless of what I do - painting, claywork, patchwork even......if its 'Social Pottery', its ok - it works for me. Maybe thats the difference between a job and a successful career - if its 'Social Pottery' to you, its never a chore. It's soooo simple - for some, its just semantics but for me, its a subtle change in perception that I believe will make all the difference.
I think it may be time to stop reacting to exhibitions or people liking my work as if its a threat. Somebody complimented my work today and I can feel the fear rising in me even now. As if they'd said to me....I want 10 of the same by Xmas. Interesting reaction that - to be fearful of positive feedback. Now that's screwed up.
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