January 11, 2013

Let Tears Fall Where They May, You Will Be Okay

Been walking through some difficult days with people lately and this painting emerged as I was processing. Grief in all it's elements can be tough. But I have seen that even when you're broken, you can be okay. Something about that is hopeful during dark times.

Apart from that, I've been sorting through thoughts about my art. I've had a dry spell and couldn't figure out why. Finally I realized I'm putting a lot of pressure on myself to perform, produce and sell. So I've decided to take a break from my shop to get my painting groove back. I'm also letting go of expectations to paint at a certain level or to keep within a certain genre. I'm going to get back to playing, the way I used to. I'm giving myself freedom to create anything. Just deciding this has been a relief and I'm already playing with ideas.

What are your thoughts? How do you fight burnout?


32 comments :

  1. You are so right. I was feeling the same, so my "word" of 2013 is "Relax". If I don't feel like finishing and going to bed in the wee hours, then I will just finish tomorrow. Also off the worrying about selling train. Relax, enjoy.

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    1. What an incredible word, Gloria! I think we all need that reminder. :)

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  2. That can definitely block you. You are doing the right thing, just play and create. But even a block can be a good thing, because you will come back with fresh ideas and enjoy it even more when you start.
    Happy PPF!

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  3. I went through some very tough stuff and the hope I have in Jesus got me through as well as many friends

    praying for you my friend

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    1. PS I LOVE the colour of the tears :)

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    2. I'm glad to hear you got through it, Jen. And thank you about the colours; I wanted happy hues in the tears.

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  4. Dear Catherine, Beautiful painting, I like composition, colours and message which you put into it. you wrote so beautifully that 'even if we are broken, you can be okay' and also that you are giving yourself freedom to create anything. Thank you for wise words and sharing your art. Happy PPF!!!

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  5. Loving the words which fit beautifully to your artwork. Happy PPF, Annette x

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    1. It's a message that's been circling my heart. Thank you, Netty!

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  6. This is great advice I've found many a creative moment hidden behind a cloud of tears Happy PPF!

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    1. Oh I love that! Think I'm going to write that in my quote book, "I've found many a creative moment hidden behind a cloud of tears". Beautiful, Mary.

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  7. Well, congratulations so is the way to create art. Saludos

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  8. I like Mary's quote too. :)
    Giving yourself permission to play takes the pressure off, I hope you have a lovely play to help get back into the groove.xx

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  9. You are so right about all you have said here. I hope the sun is now shining for you. Good for you to allow yourself to just create and play! Happy PPF!

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  10. Yes, good for you for playing! Lovely work, love the transparent white with brights and darks, looks very fresh! <3

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  11. I really love the play of the figure/ground relationship in this painting. :)
    ♥♥♥
    Happy PPF!!
    Mary
    Mixed-Media Map Art

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    1. Thanks Mary, that makes total sense with your love of maps and contrast textures! :)

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  12. Catherine, I love this message and I like what you've been doing with painting white over a colored background. Glad to hear you plan to get back to "playing" again--I know so well about that pressure we put on ourselves! It's so hard to keep the spirit of "play" when we want so much for our art to be our "work" too!

    Thinking of you and praying for you as you walk with your friends through grief.

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  13. Wow, so true how the push to create to sell really can mess up the creative spirit. Good for you for recognizing that and taking a step back from the edge. Your groove will come back once the pressure is off. Have fun with it. Art is fun! Happy PPF

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  14. Powerful post. I too have been walking through some grief with friends and family!! Goodness knows I have had so much of it myself. We do get through it, wiser and stronger with conviction. In the end it's something to be proud of..... your dry spell is just the chance for change!! Play and get your spirit back!

    Big hugs to you!!
    Giggles

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    1. You're so right. I love how you said, "your dry spell is just the chance for change". Really like outlook! :)

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  15. yes tears are the river of life, so they say. Sounds like a good idea to get back to basics with your art, much more enjoyable!I'm off to the gym today, will feel good after! Heather x

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    1. Yes, I'm understanding that quote more now. Have fun at the gym! :)

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  16. So sorry for your need to grieve. I wish for you it to be a healing process , and perhaps your newly allowing self more freedom in creating will help that healng long. Sweet piece. HPPF.

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