Last class, we discussed how difficult it is to begin the actual process of creating in our books. We may have many rich ideas for our art but figuring out how to express those ideas visually can be a difficult process of translation. It's often intimidating to start making marks, laying down paint, affixing collage items. etc. because we believe that what we create must be perfect and we are conscious of the fact that our art is permanent. While we are indeed creating a record or document of our thoughts, ideas or feelings, we cannot let the permanence or perfection bully us into silence. We are, in a sense, making a static record of a very dynamic process, but it's the process that is exhilarating! We as artists are most certainly concerned with the product, for we create in order to communicate and we cannot communicate effectively if our art does not "say" what we wish it to say (though this doesn't mean it still can't be great art.) But, if we focus more on the process of our art making as we are going through it, and are not as worried about "messing something up" or making "mistakes" we'll probably be the better for it. That kind of focus will allow us to be thoughtful about our decisions, will bring an intensity to the creative risks and challenges we take on, and will give us the opportunity to direct all of our passions and intellect at the job at hand, not waste our energy worrying about falling short.
The artist Robert Henri said, "A work of art is the trace of a magnificent struggle." Right on, Robert. Let the man's words comfort you when you're facing the doubts and challenges so often associated with art-making. You are definitely not alone.
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