As a Professional Artist, sometimes it's hard to find the time to do all that needs to be done in a day. It's so easy to get distracted by LIFE. Capital L-I-F-E. The phone is ringing, the dishes need to be done, the laundry needs to be put away and let's not even talk about the unread emails in my Inbox. Or we just distracted in general, ohh look a kitty.
To be successful at being an Artist, you have to treat it as a job. Because it is a job. It's long hours, life-long learning, often dirty looking paint-smudged fingers. Put in the work. So on days like today...when LIFE interrupted what was supposed to be a full day of painting in the studio I have to remind myself that it wasn't a total loss.
Sometimes, it's ok not to paint. Or even not to feel like painting. BUT a successful artist will still do something creative. Feed the beast, so to speak.
Under the weather or exhausted? Read. Look up a new technique on your smart phone while in line at the DMV, doodle some ideas for paintings while you're on infinite hold with the cable company, browse Pinterest for a different style, poke around the MET's online collection, flip through a book of your favorite paintings. Keep a sketchbook or notebook anywhere you spend time outside of your studio or painting space. I have one in my purse, car and next to the bed. Sketch in your free moments. Don't know what to draw? Here's a little secret, it doesn't matter! Just draw. You can sketch your water bottle or tape dispenser. Warhol became famous for soup cans. Jot down ideas, inspiration, opportunities and goals. Even if it the opportunity or goal seems crazy or far-fetched, write it down. Maybe today it's a crazy idea but tomorrow it won't be.
Or if you're just feeling stuck or uninspired, start painting. Squirt some paint on a canvas or Yupo and rub it around with your fingers or a stick. Go for a walk. Look for interesting colors, textures or shapes in nature. Take a photo of it or bring it home with you. The ideas will come. Clear your head and then do the work.
But let's be honest, some days it just won't happen. And you know what? That's ok too.
Try again tomorrow.