Some Thoughts on “Why”

My first vivid memory of drawing and coloring goes back to first grade, when our project in school was to draw a picture of our house. I remember my art teacher complimenting my drawing, then asking if I wanted to add some yellow to the windows- that would make it look like there were lights on. I added the yellow.

And in what feels like a lifetime of classes and workshops surrounding some sort of artistic pursuit, there are several comments my teachers have made that have really stuck with me. One that I hold onto more than any other:

“Nothing scares you.”

My high school art teacher said that to me, when referring to my approach in class. While some students felt intimidated and didn’t know where to start, I would always dive right in. A blank white canvas can feel scary, but that teacher observed that it was not for me. 

Was it completely true at the time? I don’t know. Frankly I hadn’t noticed or even given it much thought. I guess I wasn’t super intimidated by the art making process. 

But that’s not really the point. 

I remember this comment so vividly, because by saying “nothing scares you,” my teacher gave me a personal narrative about my art practice. An internal story that became my reality. 

“Nothing scares you” became my inner voice when I was at the easel. My creative practice became my place of confidence, where I didn’t have to be afraid of anything. 

To this day, creativity is about the only place in my world where fear and worry don’t really appear. It’s a place where my heart finds comfort.

Do I have bad days in the studio? Yes, of course. There are times when I get completely frustrated with what I am doing. Do I stress about the ins-and-outs of being a creative entrepreneur? All the time! 

But I don’t feel afraid when I’m creating work in the studio. I feel safe. Capable. 

Perhaps that’s why I have been so dedicated to creativity my entire life. My art practice feels like my place of strength. It’s the place where I’m at my best, and also giving my best to the world.

Thanks for reading.

~ Claire