Making art is at odds with many of the values of modern life. It is mostly a lone pursuit in a time that celebrates extroverts not introverts. It is done for love and self-expression and though I make a living from it, it is not the driving force yet capitalist culture calls on us to earn more and build a business from our passions. More, bigger, better is the common mantra.
Putting myself at the top of my to do list has taken years. I feel my balance is much healthier. A turning point for me was to begin and add to a list titled Things I Love. Cheese scones was the first entry. I still add to it, many many entries now and it helped me feel seen by myself.
I apologise for my previous post which was a bit harsh. Going through a difficult time. Only a few days ago I had Googled 'are artists selfish?' then I read your article. I think the defining factor of an artist may be that they have a 'true north ', this makes it easier for them to pursue their goal - whether this is selfish or necessary. If we were all truly selfish the wouldn't function, it is about finding the right balance.
I have done one of your workshops on Textile Artist's Stitch Club which I enjoyed and I also discovered your website which I will now get back to.
I will never be an artist. I have enjoyed craft all my life and thought I wanted to be an artist but now I'm not so sure. I found enormous satisfaction raising my children and later caring for my husband. All this talk about honouring yourself - how very lucky you are, how privileged. Some people don't have the choice. I think artists are selfish and I don't want to be like that. Different species.
Is it selfish to be an artist?
Another thought provoking read.
Putting myself at the top of my to do list has taken years. I feel my balance is much healthier. A turning point for me was to begin and add to a list titled Things I Love. Cheese scones was the first entry. I still add to it, many many entries now and it helped me feel seen by myself.
If my soul isn't fed, I feel unwell.
A beautiful post, full of truth.
I apologise for my previous post which was a bit harsh. Going through a difficult time. Only a few days ago I had Googled 'are artists selfish?' then I read your article. I think the defining factor of an artist may be that they have a 'true north ', this makes it easier for them to pursue their goal - whether this is selfish or necessary. If we were all truly selfish the wouldn't function, it is about finding the right balance.
I have done one of your workshops on Textile Artist's Stitch Club which I enjoyed and I also discovered your website which I will now get back to.
I will never be an artist. I have enjoyed craft all my life and thought I wanted to be an artist but now I'm not so sure. I found enormous satisfaction raising my children and later caring for my husband. All this talk about honouring yourself - how very lucky you are, how privileged. Some people don't have the choice. I think artists are selfish and I don't want to be like that. Different species.