I know this get into Time Magazine territory, and is really lame but it is the best way for me to say thanks for your contributions, insight and “Joy”. Merry Christmas to those of you celebrate Christmas, for those who don’t thanks for being a big part of my life in 2006
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I’ve been reading a lot about how certain conversations and comments have a way of halting the progress of an artist. I was surprised to learn that a positive remark has the same or similar effect for some artist
What happens is that our (individual) need for approval shows up and unconsciously we try to replicate the applause. In both cases, negative or positive, the artist moves away from his or her personal intent to “what can I do that will please others or at least avoid ridicule”. As result the artist becomes “Stopped” and avoids creativity in his or her work.
Does this ring true for anyone? I ask the question looking for ways to support the teaching of art and creativity.
Check out the comments on Art and Perception
There will be lots written today about John Lennon, his importance etc. I recall the day because it was one of my worst days. I was in bed sick, couldn’t walk and thinking, rather more like promising myself, that I would stop fooling myself. I hated pretending to be a “business man”. The randomness of Lennon’s death was a kind of wake up alarm. 
I hit the snooze button.
A day or two later when I could walk a little, my kid had this great idea and asked if I would limp down to her school and teach drawing to her 6 grade class. I had never done this before, but it connected for me. The alarm was still ringing.
I hit the snooze button.
There were tons of alarms and clues and eventually I woke up. Sure sometimes I think about the time I wasted not painting, being around artist. Those feelings quickly fade as soon as I pick up a brush.
Thanks Kid.
Tomorrow, I will be exhibiting a number of my paintings in support Zeta21 a foundation that trains and supports “Non-Traditional Leaders”. This event is important to me for a many reasons. One I get to support people who want to and can make an important contribution to people. Second, I introduce myself to a lot of folks who had no clue that I even existed. I’ve made mention of this before and have referred to other art bloggers’ post on this subject, that the most important thing that we artist can do is to find ways to introduce ourselves to new audiences. Third, I made a promise to myself in July that I would have two exhibit before the end of the year.
