I’ve been thinking about this phrase a lot recently and the importance of maintaining hope in the face of difficulty. That’s not always easy and this last year has certainly thrown up lots of challenges; the biggest and still unresolved being the Covid-19 pandemic.
For me as an Artist life hasn’t changed too much. I usually work in isolation, have plenty of projects on the go and although I’ve missed seeing family and friends face to face, my online interaction has helped me feel connected to them. Yesterday I went for a lovely walk with my Daughter who was very excited about a flat that she and her partner are hoping to buy. It reminded me of the emotional rollercoaster that so many life events present us with. Too many to name here but I’m sure you can think of the significant events that caused you to feel up one minute and down the very next.
I was asked to be interviewed to be featured on a Podcast just this week, with only a few days to prepare I was totally excited about the opportunity. Becoming more visible as an Artist is all part of my development and not without it’s vulnerabilities. How one moment I can be raring to go and the next wanting to retreat into the shadows. Oh how that internal dialogue of criticism can appear out of nowhere; just as things are going so well. The interview spurred me to think about my Art practice, how, where and when I make Art as well as the subject matter and ideas behind my work. Clouds is a big theme for me and it was helpful to think about it more deeply. I’ve always tried to embrace positivity and embrace ‘Blue Sky Thinking’ but what about when the skies are cloudy with foreboding storms ahead. For me, painting is the way I process so much and looking back on work that’s even years old helps me make sense of my internal world. It’s also really interesting when images resonate with others; I often wonder if people who like my work have similar stories and experiences.
Anyway for now I’m still learning the fine art of balancing the emotions that erupt during times of uncertainty.
M Scott Peck in his book The Road less Travelled talks about how the avoidance of emotional pain is often the root of so much further distress. Facing our difficulties head on can feel scary but is more positive in the long run.
So let’s hold on to our hope in all kinds of weather, for Brighter Days will come.
There’s a link to the podcast below, it’s great and I’ve been listening to it for a while. The episode I mention doesn’t air until 24.11.202 so do follow and subscribe as Margret Petrie is a great interviewer and Artist too.