There are any number of reasons for someone to create art. I’ve always thought the best reason is to enjoy the process. I may refer to myself as an “artist”, when a conversation requires such a label, but what I really am is a “creator”. I revel in the process of creating and the satisfaction of learning along the way.
The stereotype of the tortured artist perseveres because many of us struggle with our creations, feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of our endeavors and the pressures society puts upon us. A simple drawing becomes an insurmountable wall when faced by our own judgment and insecurities. Lifetimes of being told that art is for children, that we cannot make a living as an artist, or that our work is lacking when compared to our contemporaries. These words often prevent us from enjoying the process of creating something new.
Like most creatives, I have fallen victim to my own harsh judgements many times. Along the way, I’ve lost my sense of enjoyment and excitement many times. Every time, I’ve had to pull myself out of that hole and relearn how to enjoy the creative process. This often means I have to focus on projects for myself, projects that likely won’t end up on someone else’s wall or on a shelf, projects that likely won’t make money or earn me accolades.
And that’s ok.
I’ve sold my art over the years. I’ve worked with paying clients. I’ve had my work published and displayed to the public. All of this is wonderful and I’m grateful to everyone who’s supported me over the years, but I’ve also learned that these reasons cannot be the primary reason I create anything. If I focus too much on the financial or trying to “get known”, I find I burn out very quickly.
If you’re reading this, you’ve obviously found my website. Like my art, I’ve struggled with what I want my website to be. For the longest time it was only a brochure to present my work, but that has never felt like the right direction for me. Starting in 2026, I’ve decided this website will be a constantly morphing creature of my creation. (insert Frankenstein “It’s alive!” soundbite here) While some of it will certainly look like a typical gallery artist website, after going live, it will start to change and mutate over time. It will go in unexpected directions with hidden rabbit holes and oddities for a viewer to discover, if they choose to take the time.
I want this to be something different, but that will also take time. Keep checking back to find out what’s next.