Creative Life Print by Hello Cherie Handmade
Feeling as if you have no choice but to be an artist can be scary….at least it scares ME sometimes. It's not a cookie cutter career, it doesn't have a neatly laid out path, it isn't always the most lucrative choice, and overcoming societal pressure, childhood conditioning, and your own fears can be very trying. So, what do I do to keep myself (relatively) sane, inspired and full of faith on this creative journey? I devour books, find communities, take classes, read blogs, spend time with other artists and watch videos that provide support for creative beings, living creative lives.
I've mentioned several different types of resources above, but I thought today I'd share the most easily accessible type. Here are 5 internet resources I've used to keep myself going recently:
2. Elizabeth Gilbert speech. I found this video through a Facebook post by Tama Kieves. Elizabeth Gilbert had a huge impact on my life a few years ago when I read Eat, Pray, Love. A friend in San Francisco lent me the book when I was going through a breakup, eating cookies for dinner, and devoting my days and nights to yoga and meditation (so, if you've read the book, you know that I obviously found it relatable). My affinity for all things Elizabeth Gilbert, thanks to my love for her book, led me to watch all 19 minutes of this video, in which she discusses nurturing creativity. She poses a very intriguing theory about the creative process, which ultimately relieves a lot of pressure we artists may feel. I love her idea! Check it out!
3. Ira Glass video. Ira Glass is the host and producer of the infamous NPR show: This American Life. I learned about this video in an amazing online painting class, Get Your Paint On, that I took a couple months back. Here Ira talks about being a beginner and what you have to push through to become great. It was a nice little pep talk for me that I was able to use in so many ways and gave me good perspective on where I am on the spectrum of beginner-expert in my many different crafts. I also simply find him enjoyable to listen to, but I suppose that's why he's a radio sensation.
4. Esty community. The Etsy blog is an amazing resource for those of us trying to make our art our livelihood or who have an Esty shop. If you have a shop, you likely receive the weekly emails highlighting the top posts for the week, which usually provide interesting and useful tips. One series that I really enjoy and get a lot of inspiration and encouragement from is: Quit Your Day Job. If you type both "quit your day job" and your specific craft (i.e. photography, painting) in the blog search function, as Etsy suggested to us readers last week, you'll have the added benefit of hearing from those who have been where you are. Aside from the wonderful articles, tips and how to's on Etsy, I have found just as much advice, encouragement and information in talking to other shop owners. I've been overwhelmed by the openness, honesty and friendliness to be found in other Etsy shop owners. Thanks to all of you for being you!
There is a great universe out there eager to support you! So, my question is where do YOU turn for support on your artistic journey? Where do you find inspiration or guidance? I'd love to hear from you!
What a wonderful post! I cannot wait to check out some of these links. I agree that the Elizabeth GIlbert post is well worth the time.
ReplyDeletethanks stephanie! i'm glad you found it helpful! elizabeth gilbert is just so inspiring and honest. love her!
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