Encouragement
March 4, 2022 – Written by Bethany Fields
”How do I get over rejection in the art world?”
“My work isn’t selling, can you help?”
“I am working hard but not getting noticed.”
We feel unwanted, disappointed, passed over, “I’m not good enough”, jealousy, and hurt.
In our digital age, it’s so easy to present perfection online when reality is very different. We struggle with our art, our finances, our businesses, our health, our loved-ones, our lives.
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We want to present our best, were taught “if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say it at all”, and so those feelings get pushed aside, creating shadows in our minds that whisper all kinds of negative self-talk.
We hide behind a mask of “everything is fine, I’m fine” and secretly feel so left behind.
I’m a champion of negative self-talk. And when I think about it, why do I say things to myself I would never say to someone I love?
So…
•when the art doesn’t sell
•when no one pays attention
•when we’re rejected from an exhibit
•when we receive negative emails or comments online
•when another artist seems to catch all the breaks
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I have to take a deep breath, recognize my emotions, and go back to the beginning of why I’m an artist in the first place.
It’s for joy.
It’s a moment of peace.
It’s to feel incredible gratitude for eyes to see the beauty around us.
It’s a moment to myself to stop worrying about anything but which color to choose.
It’s the thrill of seeing something come alive.
It’s the bliss of creation and praise for the beautiful world.
It’s grounding.
It’s community.
Going back to my roots remind me that even though hurt may come, I’m painting for myself and no one else. All I can do is take care of my own work and trust in the process of continual study.
It’s not about anyone but me! I don’t want to create just to get attention in “likes” and “comments.” I want to create because it’s a part of who I am.
So don’t give up! Keep going because we need your creativity in the world! In upcoming posts, we’ll talk about writing resumes, artist statements, how to share online, how to monetize your online presence, how to save money on materials, best apps for productivity, approaching galleries, online submissions, and more. Please give me some feedback on what else you’d like to discuss in regards to your business because I’d love to hear from you.
I’m in your corner and thank you for being in mine!
Now let’s all go paint because it makes us happy, brings us peace, and fills us with joy.
xoxo,
Bethany
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