"Standing Alone"

($40.00....6" x 6"....Water Soluble Oils on Gessobord)

"Standing alone sets you apart from the crowd." If you dare to do things differently or stand for something that runs counter to what everyone else is thinking, it may feel a bit awkward. However, there isn't a single biography of anyone who accomplished something that didn't dare to set themselves apart from the crowd.

My thoughts today actually "dovetail" into the quote and commentary from yesterday. This "standing alone" thing is particularly true of artists. And it all begins where your desires take you. God given desires help us know how we're "wired" and what direction to take. Paying close attention to what you gravitate to and then acting on that direction will definitely take you out of your comfort zone.

What happens next is very important because there will always be "nay sayers" who will question what on earth you're doing and why you're doing it in a particular way. But if the desire is nurtured and you actually have the guts to follow your heart, you will discover that many doors will open. 

For instance, if everyone who paints in oils mixed and laid down the paint in the same way, there would be no need to try to set yourself apart because everyone would be doing the same thing. A very wise instructor once said something..."if you want to learn how to do something, try it on your own for about six months and then go find a teacher." I will add something to that thought. You might not need a teacher if you have already figured it out in your own way.  Although instruction is often needed when beginning a new thing, teachers can often "muck" it up.  It is not good to simply copy another artist (or teacher's style), but to use what they show you to add to your own desire to go in a particular direction. 

Of course, whatever way you choose to go needs practice and many hours in your studio, but we will all benefit from your courage to step out into the unknown and simply see where your desires take you. I have been in a very philosophical mood lately so if this helps you....great.....and if not, my attention will soon turn back to process and especially "design". And there you have it...just a few more things to think about.

Please contact me personally to inquire about this piece.