This is the first of many questions I am mulling over, while writing my statement. I think first and foremost, I get from art a satisfaction of being able to express myself in a way that others can also enjoy. Yes, I really am expressing viewpoints, thoughts, ideas, perspectives, etc. I have certain thoughts about the way the world is and how it should be, and painting helps me make my feelings more concrete, more complete, I think.
I also enjoy the feeling of working on something and making it beautiful, and finally finishing it. The very act of creating gives me a thrill, a feeling of enjoyment. This is true especially if the piece is actually good, from my perspective. If it’s not to my liking I usually keep working or start on another painting. When it hits on all 4 cylinders, so to speak, it really satisfies my sense of self, my ego, my worthiness as an artist and person. I feel good!
I also like to show my paintings to other people, and to see what their reactions are. Sure, sometimes they may not say what I expect them to say, but it’s still good to get a comment or suggestion. I like to get positive feedback, but who doesn’t. Of course, I enjoy praise, and that really makes me happy to have done what I did, to make a beautiful object and get a good response. On the other hand, negative critique is always good too, because it keeps me from getting too much of a “big head”. I try to listen to their viewpoint and process it to the extant that I can.
Good or Bad, Hate it or Love it, it’s nice to hear critical comments. They’re better than nothing at all!
Jeff: I won’t be able to attend Art-A-Whirl this weekend (Ashey’s graduating from the New School … yea!) but I love your work and hope the weekend goes well for you.
Donna
Hi Donna, I’m not in Art-A-Whirl this year… too busy! (I was just putting it on the calender for anyone who was interested.) Good Luck at graduation! Congratulations!