Category: Morning Artist Tips

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Unleashing Your Artistic Superpower

The image above was taken in 2010 at the beginning of our artistic journey. This picture is the first step in us embracing our superpower. It’s a superpower that all creatives have inside. It is being you, with all your quirks and all your weirdness.

Today, we’re about to embark on a journey into the heart of what makes you not just an artist but a superhero in your own right – your uniqueness.

I’ve been deep in contemplation lately, navigating the twists and turns of my own creative path. Moving, life’s chaos, and a hiatus from art had left me grappling to rediscover my theme, my voice. And what stood in my way like a formidable adversary? Conformity.

Let’s call it what it is – conformity is the kryptonite for artists. It threatens to make us invisible, to drown out the very essence of what makes us special. But fear not, for embracing our uniqueness is the ultimate superpower.

In my artistic journey, I’ve found solace in embracing the quirks that make me, well, me. My artwork is fluid, a reflection of my rebellion against the meticulous finishing touches. There’s a rawness to it that my insecure side once questioned, but deep down, I adore it just the way it is.

Now, imagine your uniqueness as a melody within you, a rhythm that sets you apart from the symphony of the world. Every artist carries this unique tune, a blend of experiences, emotions, and perspectives – your artistic DNA. No two tunes are the same.

Conformity may seem like the easy path, but it’s a road that leads to invisibility. Picture it as trying to fit into a preset song, drowning out your individual tune. It might make you blend in, but it makes you vanish from the spotlight, turning you into background noise instead of the star of your own show.

Why is being unique a superpower? Because the world is noisy. Everyone is doing their thing, following trends. Standing out is not just crucial; it’s your signature move. Your uniqueness is the key to creating art that resonates profoundly because it comes from within you.

Now, let’s tackle the fear – the fear of being different, the fear of standing out. But here’s the truth: your uniqueness is not a weakness; it’s a strength. It’s your authenticity, your realness, and there’s nothing more powerful than authentic art. Stand in your confidence, surround yourself with those who celebrate diversity – fellow rogues who understand the value of being unique.

Experiment, explore, create your own path. Your uniqueness is your secret sauce, making your art memorable and incomparable. The road may be tough initially, with people struggling to understand your work. But keep putting it out there, for in time, they will compare it to your own unique journey.

Conformity is the silent killer of creativity. It stifles growth and hinders your own evolution. Embrace your uniqueness; it’s the antidote to invisibility. Don’t jump through hoops to fit in; stand out, for that is who you are.

So, how can you embrace your unique superpower? Start by accepting being different as a strength, not a weakness. Your uniqueness makes you authentic, real, and powerful.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, explore, and create your own way of doing things. The more you embrace your uniqueness, the louder it will resonate in the world. Your artwork will become more popular as you gain confidence in your own way of creating.

At the end of the day, remember this – your unique melody, the voice inside you, is your superpower. Don’t struggle to fit in, for your conformity might make you blend in, but it’s your uniqueness that will make you stand out. Stay unique, stay awesome, keep creating, keep dancing to your own beat, and embrace the rhythm that is your uniqueness.

I adore each and every one of you, Until next week, adios!

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Finding Your Unique Artist Voice

I remember the early days of my art career, grappling with the notion of creating something uniquely mine. What exactly is an artistic voice? It felt like deciphering an ancient code. You might relate – the struggle to break free from the labels of abstract, figurative, or surreal. I mistakenly believed I had to intentionally craft something entirely novel to claim my artistic voice.

But here’s the revelation: Your voice isn’t just about style or technique. It’s about what you want to achieve, how you perceive the world, and the techniques you grow to love over time. It’s a journey of self-discovery and exploration.

Experimentation became my guide, leading me to new techniques and mediums. The challenge was real – everyone advising to specialize in one thing. Yet, my heart urged me to work with different mediums. It was about discovering what resonated with me, even if it meant going against conventional wisdom.

Finding Your Unique Artist Voice Is A Journey

Artists, including the greats, traverse various styles before finding their true calling. It’s a process of self-reflection and experimentation, a journey into authenticity that takes time and perseverance. Embrace the suck, push through the mistakes, and keep putting your creations out there.

External influences, societal expectations, and trends can be daunting. It’s easy to feel overshadowed by what’s popular. But remember, your authenticity is your strength. Don’t let market demands dictate your work. What feels new and innovative to you may not gain instant recognition, and that’s okay. Consistency and persistence will carve out your unique space.

Then comes the fear of judgment – a universal hurdle. The moment you start expressing your true self, judgment creeps in. Fear of criticism can lead you to conform and play it safe. But here’s the truth – standing out is liberating. Embrace the fear, push past it, and revel in your unique style.

Finding Your Unique Artist Voice Is A Journey

Artistic evolution is inevitable. As you grow, your skills and perspectives evolve. Don’t be confined by the notion that you reach a pinnacle and stay there forever. Embrace the fluidity of your journey, allowing your voice to evolve with you.

Finding your artistic voice is finding confidence in creating what resonates with you. It’s about being real and authentic, creating work that is deeply meaningful to you and potentially connects with others who share your essence.

So, experiment, embrace what you love, and focus on your authenticity. Your voice is the unique melody within you, waiting to be heard. Share it with the world, fearlessly. Remember, you’re amazing, keep creating, and I’ll catch you next week. Adios!

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Letting Go of the Glitches: A Rogue’s Reflection on Simplifying Life

Today, we embark on a journey through the intricacies of managing a self-run membership site versus the streamlined simplicity of Patreon.

A year ago, we bid farewell to Patreon in pursuit of greater control and customization for our members on our dedicated website, theroguecommunity.com. The decision seemed like the right move, given our desire to offer a plethora of exclusive content and interactions. Little did we anticipate the challenges that lay ahead.

Our artistic haven, the Rogue community, thrives on live podcasts, private streams, workshops, art challenges, exclusive videos, and more. We’ve created a vibrant space for artists to connect and grow. However, as we delved into the intricacies of managing our own site, we discovered a hidden labyrinth of technical glitches, especially with the WordPress framework and various plugins required to deliver the best membership options.

The past year became a testament to the delicate balance between managing a thriving online community and nurturing one’s artistic soul. The website, while a hub of creativity, also became a source of unexpected challenges. Every week, a new glitch emerged, demanding my attention and diverting my focus from the art studio.

As an artist, my yearly goal is to create at least 150 new works of art, a lofty ambition that drives my passion for creation. However, the demands of troubleshooting website issues left little room for artistic endeavors. Despite the behind-the-scenes chaos, the members remained blissfully unaware, shielded from the technical storms I wrestled with.

The stark realization hit me hard – in the pursuit of providing more for our community, I inadvertently sacrificed my personal artistic goals. The very essence of being an artist involves immersion in the creative process, yet I found myself entangled in the complexities of maintaining a membership website.

Last year’s goal was to simplify, a mantra that echoed through our endeavors. We streamlined processes, eliminated unnecessary complexities, and aimed for a more straightforward approach. However, the website posed a significant challenge, introducing unforeseen technical complexities that disrupted the delicate balance we sought.

The toll on my artistic output was profound. The studio, my sanctuary, became a neglected haven, visited sporadically amid the chaos of fixing glitches and ensuring the website’s seamless operation. Art, the lifeblood of my existence, took a backseat to the demands of managing a self-run platform.

The financial repercussions were undeniable. While the membership site contributed to our income, the artistic side, our primary source of revenue, suffered a decline. It became apparent that the pursuit of a self-run membership site had unintended consequences on both my artistic fulfillment and our financial stability.

As the year drew to a close, a profound reevaluation became imperative. Simplify had been our guiding principle, yet the reality begged for a more drastic shift. The decision to let go of the self-run membership site, despite the fears and uncertainties it brought, became a pivotal moment in reclaiming artistic autonomy.

The fear of returning to Patreon with a metaphorical “tail between our legs” clashed with the realization that holding onto a project that no longer served its purpose was detrimental. The members, our cherished rogues, remained at the forefront of our considerations. However, it was evident that a significant change was needed to restore the delicate balance between community management and artistic creation.

The decision to let go was not merely a surrender; it was a reclaiming of artistic agency. The emotional turmoil – fear, financial concerns, and a tinge of regret – were overshadowed by the need for a renewed focus on art.

This podcast episode serves as an open narrative, offering a glimpse into the struggles and realizations of the past year. It’s a testament to the artist’s journey, the constant negotiation between creative passion and external demands.

As we step into 2024, the mantra shifts to “simplify.” Yet, this year’s simplicity transcends the mere elimination of unnecessary complexities. It delves deeper into the notion of shedding projects that no longer serve our artistic essence.

The lesson is clear – life is short, and time is a precious currency. Focus on the things you love, and let go of the burdens that hinder your creative journey. In sharing this personal odyssey, I hope it resonates with fellow artists facing similar struggles.

Adios, wonderful rogues! May your 2024 be a year of simplicity, focus on magic, love, and everything that brings you joy. Life’s canvas awaits, and it’s time to paint with unabated passion.

Have an amazing, art-filled week, and I look forward to our next rendezvous. Until then, stay inspired!

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Why Do I Put Off Creative Projects?

I’ve got a burning topic that’s been tickling my brain all week, and it’s about the sneaky ways we convince ourselves that we’re not procrastinating when we totally are. You know, the art of self-trickery.

I Need More Research.

So, picture this: you’ve got this brilliant project or art career you’re dying to dive into, but somehow, you find yourself tangled in the infamous research loop. You’re convinced you need to know more, and before you know it, you’re knee-deep in a vortex of information, with no end in sight. Research is essential, but there’s a fine line between knowing enough and drowning in the sea of Google tabs.

I Need More Time.

And let’s not forget the classic “I need more time” excuse. We’ve all been there, swearing up and down that the day only has 24 hours, conveniently forgetting that Beyoncé also has the same 24 hours. Time is a sneaky thing. The longer you put off your masterpiece, the more time magically disappears, or so we tell ourselves.

I Need To Be Told It’s OK To Do This.

Now, here’s a gem: waiting for permission. Newsflash, you don’t need a golden ticket from Willy Wonka to start creating. Don’t sit around twiddling your thumbs, hoping for someone to discover you. Be your own art superhero and put yourself out there. It’s like jumping into the deep end of a pool – it’s scary, but it’s where the magic happens.

Don’t Put Off Projects Just Relax And Have Fun

I Should Be Doing Something Important.

And here’s a personal favorite of mine – the “it’s irresponsible” excuse. Sometimes, your brain tells you that pursuing your passion is reckless, especially if it doesn’t come with a fat paycheck. But guess what? Responsibility is overrated. Dive into those passion projects, even if they’re not swimming in dollar bills. The reward is in the process, not just the outcome.

I Need More Money.

Ah, the money excuse. “I’ll start when I have more money.” Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt. Spoiler alert: you’ll never feel like you have enough money. Embrace the chaos, start with what you have, and watch the magic unfold.

I Have Kids.

Now, kids and responsibilities – a legitimate concern. But hey, you can be an artist and a responsible adult simultaneously. Show your kids the beauty of pursuing your dreams, and don’t be the parent who only preaches. Be the parent who paints the picture of a life well-lived.

I Need The Right Logo.

And don’t get me started on the “I don’t have the right space or logo” nonsense. Your creative journey doesn’t hinge on having the perfect setup. Picasso didn’t wait for the stars to align, and neither should you. Use what you have, where you are, and let the creativity flow.

Don’t Put Off Projects Just Relax And Have Fun

In conclusion, just get started. Break free from the chains of procrastination, even if it’s just baby steps. Embrace the suck, because everything you do will suck until it doesn’t. Happy holidays, you incredible beings. ! adore you all, and will catch you on the flip side! Adios!

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Navigating The Holidays As An Artist

I want to share some thoughts with you as we navigate the wild landscape of artistry during the holiday season.

The holidays are a peculiar time for artists, aren’t they? A blend of opportunities and challenges, where the art you pour your soul into may or may not find its way into the hearts of others. I’ve had years of both highs and lows during this festive season, and I want to let you in on a little secret: it’s not just about the art.

Sure, art is a deeply personal gift, and it can be a hit or miss during the holidays. But here’s the thing, the magic doesn’t lie in waiting for someone to recognize your masterpiece. It lies in how you navigate these times and turn challenges into opportunities.

During the holidays, I’ve learned to adapt. I create unique items like ornaments and limited-edition calendars, making my art more accessible and giftable. It’s not about compromising authenticity; it’s about finding ways to connect with people during a season when gifting is at its peak.

Let’s talk about the emotional rollercoaster this season can be. Whether you’re soaring high on sales or feeling the weight of unsold pieces, remember this: your art matters. Every stroke, every color choice, every piece of your soul poured onto the art makes a difference.

It’s easy to get caught up in the commercial frenzy of the holidays, with businesses shouting about sales and discounts. As an artist, you might feel the pressure to join in. And that’s okay—just make sure you do it authentically. Create something special, something that aligns with your artistic vision.

Promoting your work consistently is a challenge, no doubt. I had to make videos, posts, and blogs reminding people about my calendar until the last day of the virtual show when the final pieces found their homes. It’s exhausting, and there’s that inner voice whispering in your head that you’re being annoying. But remember, your voice matters, and your art deserves to be seen.

If the financial success doesn’t come during the holidays, don’t let it discourage you. Your art is bigger than any sale or promotion. Each brushstroke is a step toward your masterpiece. Your journey as an artist is a masterpiece in itself. Embrace the process, the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

So, as we dive into the holiday madness, remember why you started this journey. It’s not just about making money or becoming a marketing whiz. It’s about expressing your authentic self to the world. Your art is a unique gift, and you are the masterpiece.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season, filled with creativity, authenticity, and the unwavering belief that your art matters. Adios until next week!

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Finishing Your Art Projects

Welcome to this week’s expedition into the realm of finishing art projects. Today, Klee and I embarked on a podcast adventure, exploring the depths of creativity, struggles, and the elusive art of completing our art projects. Now, gather ’round, as I unravel the tapestry of our conversation.

The Uncharted Terrain of Project Completion:

We delved into the seemingly straightforward concept of finishing art projects. What does it truly mean to complete a project? Well, according to Klee, it’s as simple as finishing your art projects. A good answer, indeed, and yet, the journey unfolds with more complexity than meets the eye. The act of completing is sometimes an act of will. Also, give yourself more time, just because you put something on a shelf, doesn’t mean you are never going to finish it.

The Balancing Act of Creative Multiplicity:

As creatives, we often find ourselves juggling an array of projects—sound, books, videos, paintings, and jewelry. The challenge, Klee and I noted, lies in striking a balance amid this myriad of creative pursuits. The intricate dance between various mediums requires focus, intention, and, most importantly, the art of finishing what we start.

Single-Tasking Greatness:

In the midst of our creative chaos, we echoed the sentiment that multitasking is but an illusion. The key to unlocking greatness lies in single-tasking—pouring our undivided attention into one project at a time. The revelation? Focus is the secret sauce to letting our creative mojo thrive.

Navigating the Post-Holiday Lull:

Post-holiday periods often bring a paradox of challenges. While busy times demand strategic thinking, the lull can tempt us into the abyss of indecision. Klee shared her struggles during these quieter times and the importance of deliberate downtime—conscious choices to recalibrate rather than getting lost in the void of “I don’t know what to do today.”

“Fa Chunking” and Embracing Strategic Focus:

Fiona introduced the concept of “fa chunking,” a brilliant strategy to break projects into manageable 5-minute increments. Whether pushing through or hitting pause, this technique allows for intentional and strategic progress. Klee highlighted the value of strategic focus, ensuring that our creative endeavors align with our current priorities.

As we wrapped up this artistic odyssey, one thing became abundantly clear—finishing art projects is not just about the final brushstroke or concluding note. It’s a journey of self-discovery, intentional choices, and the delicate dance of balancing our creative pursuits.

So, whether you’re navigating the chaos of creativity or embracing the calm after the storm, remember to find your rhythm. Clear the cache, chunk your time, and, above all, relish in the joy of creating. May your creative week be filled with magic, wonder, and the completion of inspiring projects.

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When You Are Not Feeling Your Creativity

Today, I want to share something personal, something I’ve been grappling with lately – the challenge of bouncing back from the edge of feeling creatively drained. It’s a journey I find myself on at this very moment.

A couple of weeks ago, a negative comment on one of my YouTube videos hit me like a curveball. What made it worse was that it came from someone I know. It wasn’t just a run-of-the-mill internet troll; it was someone I had a connection with. The negativity wasn’t even related to the video itself but was rooted in some unrelated drama involving a toxic person in my life. My knee-jerk reaction was, “I don’t need this,” and I firmly believe that when dealing with toxicity, the best course of action is to cut ties.

However, this incident coincided with the holiday season, the release of my calendars, and the adjustments that come with my daughter moving in. Balancing it all became overwhelming, and exhaustion began to creep in. The familiar feeling of not having enough time for everything, especially after facing an emotional hurdle, became all too real.

This year, my focus has been on simplifying – simplifying schedules, tasks, and life in general. But even with that intention, life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way. Many of you reading this may relate – just when you think you’ve got it together, a wrench gets thrown into the works.

In these moments, the typical response is to force ourselves to move forward, to push through the challenges and not display any weakness. But here’s the truth – suppressing and burying emotions is not a sustainable solution. It might seem like a good idea, but those buried emotions will resurface, and when they do, the impact can be profound.

Pulling Yourself Out Of A Slump

So, what do you do when you’re caught in a whirlwind of emotions and a demanding schedule? The first step, and it might sound cliché, is to acknowledge and accept your feelings. Give yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling, and don’t rush the process. I’ve come to view myself as two entities – the boss and the employee. There’s often conflict between the two, with the boss demanding productivity and the employee feeling overwhelmed. It’s crucial to recognize and accept both aspects.

The next step is to take a break. Change your environment if needed. I find solace in what I call walking meditation – a mindful stroll to clear my mind. Following this, I practice mindfulness and relaxation, purposefully directing my thoughts. It’s about taking control of your mind instead of letting it spiral into negativity.

If inspiration strikes, I engage in a creative outlet without the pressure of it becoming work. It’s about creating for the sake of creating, not for selling or posting. This process, coupled with seeking inspiration from like-minded individuals, helps in regaining clarity and motivation.

Klee Clearing Her Mind After Her Bench Was Destroyed

At the end of the day, when you’re not feeling it, give yourself the space to heal. Our instinct is often to soldier on, but there’s strength in acknowledging your thoughts, processing them, and then moving forward with a clearer understanding of yourself and your goals.

Remember, you’re not a cog in your own machine; you are your own boss. Don’t let that boss shame you or make you feel inadequate. Take the time to focus on your relationship with yourself, practice self-love, and give yourself the space needed for growth.

So, if you find yourself at the brink, know that it’s okay to pause, reflect, and heal. You’re doing more than you realize, and sometimes, giving yourself the time and space you need is the best way to move forward.

Alright, that’s all I have for you today. I appreciate each and every one of you. Adios, and I’ll catch you next week.

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Don’t Ruin The Thing You Love Doing

Today, I want to dive into a topic that has been brought to my attention countless times—the fear of turning your passion into a source of income. I’ve heard people say, “Don’t try to make money with your hobbies; you’ll ruin them.” Well, I’m here to challenge that notion and share some insights that might just change your perspective.

First off, I want to acknowledge those of you who have made a deliberate decision not to monetize your art. Your creative space is sacred, your escape from the demands of everyday life. I get it, and this podcast isn’t aimed at convincing you otherwise. What I want to address are those who hesitate to explore the idea of turning their passion into a source of income due to the fear of losing the joy and authenticity associated with their craft.

Let’s talk about our relationship with money. From a young age, we’re conditioned to associate money with tasks we may not enjoy—chores, responsibilities, jobs. It becomes a reward and punishment system. Fast forward to adulthood, and many of us view money as something stressful, tied to bills and obligations. So, when contemplating monetizing our passion, we carry this baggage into the equation.

Don’t Ruin The Thing You Love

Here’s the key: it’s not the act of making money from your hobby that’s the issue; it’s the mindset you bring to it. Your pre-existing relationship with money can either enhance or detract from your creative experience. This doesn’t apply universally—some people navigate this effortlessly, while others find themselves trapped in a cycle of stress and resentment.

Klee and I have dedicated years to understanding this dynamic. The first time you sell a piece, you’re forced to confront your emotions around money. If you harbor negative feelings, they can seep into your artistic journey. It’s not about making money; it’s about the deeper emotions and habits associated with finances.

The trap lies in treating your art as a transaction rather than a passion. The moment your goals shift from creating meaningful art to making money, you risk losing the essence of why you started in the first place. This slippery slope leads to stress, resentment, and a feeling of selling out—creating solely for profit, not for the love of the craft.

Don’t Ruin The Thing You Love

There must be a balance. While financial stability is crucial, your motivation should extend beyond money. If you’re solely chasing dollars, you risk forgetting why you create art in the first place. The art you produce should be a reflection of what you want to see, not a product designed solely for profit.

It’s easy to get lost in the noise of analytics, marketing strategies, and the pressure to “build a business” like a “professional.” But as artists, our primary job is to create meaningful art. Don’t fall into the trap of chasing trends and trying to replicate someone else’s success. Your authenticity is your strength.

So, as you navigate the intersection of art and commerce, keep your why in focus. Remember why you started creating art—it wasn’t about making money but expressing yourself and sharing your vision. Don’t let the pursuit of profit dilute the passion that fuels your creativity.

Thanks for tuning in! Your dedication to your craft inspires me, and I’ll catch you next week. Keep creating authentically!

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Weird Questions People Ask Artists

Today, we’re diving into the quirky world of questions artists get bombarded with. I mean, let’s face it, people who don’t do art see us as these magical unicorns who conjure art out of thin air, and sometimes the questions we get are just as fantastical. So, grab your sketchbook, and let’s tackle some of the wild queries together.

How long did it take you to make that?

First up on the list: “How long did it take you to make that?” Ah, the timeless classic. My go-to response? “About 40 years.” Because, you know, I’ve been at this art game since the crayon days, and it took a bit of time to fine-tune this masterpiece. It’s not just about the one piece; it’s a lifetime of artistic evolution!

Can you draw me for free?

Now, here’s a gem: “Can you draw me for free?” Short answer: No. I mean, come on, even unicorns need to pay the bills. If I drew everyone for free, I’d be living in a cardboard box, not a magical art studio.

Remember To Be Weird And Have Fun

What does this mean?

Then there’s the deep philosophical inquiry: “What does this mean?” when pointing at a piece. My tactic? Flip the question back at them – “What do you see?” It’s like inception, but with art, and it opens up a conversation instead of leaving them stranded in the depths of artistic interpretation.

Why don’t you get a real job?

Ah, the classic “Why don’t you get a real job?” To that, I simply say, “Because real jobs are overrated.” I mean, who needs a nine-to-five when you can have a canvas and colors as your companions?

Can you teach me to draw in a day?

The golden question, “Can you teach me to draw in a day?” My answer is a masterpiece in itself. “I could teach you to draw a stickman right now.” But, of course, I sneak in a little truth – becoming an artist takes time, dedication, and more than a day.

Remember To Be Weird And Have Fun

Why is it so expensive?

Now, the wallet-wincing question: “Why is it so expensive?” My response? “My art is not for everyone.” Boom. It’s not about the price; it’s about the value, and my art is like a rare gem, not your run-of-the-mill trinket.

How much money do you make?

And then we have the grand finale: “How much money do you make?” Seriously? It’s like asking a magician to reveal their secrets. My go-to? “It’s not consistent, but it’s a magical rollercoaster of creativity and financial surprises.”

When faced with these quirky questions, remember to have fun with it. Practice your responses in the mirror, turn those awkward moments into a chance to showcase your wit, and, most importantly, keep having an amazing, awesome, and creatively wild week. Adios!

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Challenging Notions of Normality and Embracing Creativity

Today, I’m diving headfirst into the whirlwind of thoughts and emotions that often ensnare us artists in the pursuit of validation. Buckle up for some truth bombs and a few rambles about what we experience in this wild artistic journey.

Let’s unpack this: the world sometimes frowns upon our choice to weave dreams into reality. There’s this pervasive notion that being an artist is indulgent, impractical, and perhaps a touch on the childish side. But, spoiler alert—it couldn’t be farther from reality! You and I, and all of us creative souls, are the true change-makers, the visionaries of the world. We aren’t just decorators for the elite; we’re warriors wielding brushes, chisels, or words to shape the universe.

As Artists, we challenge the world.

In a society fixated on the hamster wheel of ‘normalcy,’ many of us have done the corporate gig—punched the clock, treaded the corporate ladder, and danced the dance of conforming to predetermined roles. It’s almost like being a cog in someone else’s wheel, striving for bonuses, climbing that ladder, hoping not to get the boot in uncertain times. It’s a reality that sucks the life out of living, disguised as a mirage of security.

But here’s the rub: that ‘security’ is often a facade, a glittering illusion we’re taught to chase. The truth is, the sky’s the limit when you’re an artist. Sure, there’s no weekly paycheck guarantee, but what you invest is what you reap. As for me, the corporate pay was handsome, but it had a ceiling, a limit to the joy I could wring out of it.

I’d Rather Be Happy Than Responsible.

Yes, there’s that incessant battle for validation, isn’t there? As an artist, explaining what we do can sometimes feel like describing a technicolor dream to a black-and-white thinker. It’s tough for people to grasp the multifaceted nature of our work. But, here’s the silver lining—embracing this unique path is a choice to express authentically, to craft something genuinely ours. It’s about donning multiple hats, being a businessperson, an artist, and a wild dreamer all at once.

Life isn’t a dress rehearsal. When we’re on our last voyage, it won’t be thoughts of more money or being ‘normal’ that crowd our minds. It’ll be the undying wish to have pursued our passions, embraced our authenticity, and shared our creativity with the world.

Our art? It’s more than a pretty ornament. It’s a catalyst for change, a gentle whisper nudging the world toward a more colorful existence. The mere act of boldly putting ourselves out there, embracing vulnerability, and persisting despite setbacks—each step chips away at the walls society builds around itself.

We Create Change By Being Who We Are Meant To Be.

And here’s a truth bomb: we are dreamers, rebels against conformity. We’re not just living but striving for more, pushing against the mundane, and inspiring others to do the same. What we create, our art, leaves an indelible mark. It becomes a timeless echo, outliving our mortal selves.

So, keep that childlike wonder alive. Embrace the messiness of creation and revel in the chaos of your creativity. Your art matters. It’s not selfish, it’s practical, and it’s a blaze of inspiration. Don’t let the world dim that shining beacon of imagination within you. Keep creating, keep inspiring, and most importantly, keep being unapologetically you.

Until next week, keep shining bright, you wonderful beings. Adios for now, and let’s keep painting this world with our vibrant hues. Cheers to all the magical unicorns out there!