Painful, Scary, Goodness

"OUCH! Artists need a push, don't we? We like to work alone-thus avoiding any criticism, and usually hate deadlines-it messes up our "flow".

For a year now I have been painting on Sunday mornings, on stage, at my church, as part of the worship and the teaching. I have a two-hour paint, in front of everyone, to the music and then to the message. It is a push and for sure I am not working privately. Everything about this arrangement is a stretch. I cry occasionally, sometimes my hands shake, and I have experienced some anger.  And to be honest, I have been doing my best work... ever. People have loved my work and they even "get it". It's a great opportunity to give. I have sold many pieces, and have encouraged many other artists to press on in their creativity.  I have found my happy place, with weekly deadlines, in front of everybody. "OUCH" and "AHHHHH"!