Not only the artist that makes music, or paints, sculpts, designs and builds, but every person that has ever made themselves vulnerable, understands what it takes to be an artist.
I was fortunate to have grown up in a creative home. My Mom is musical, my brother both musical and artistic, my sisters are artistic and creative, I have fair talents in both art and music, and my Dad…he told people: The only thing I can play, is the radio!
This meant that from a young age, I was exposing my ‘work’ to criticism — on purpose. For an artist, it is the shipping of the work that gives you a thrill, and the only way is to put your work on display for everyone to see. You can expose yourself, and your work, and make yourself vulnerable, because it is authentically you. However, like any art piece, it might not be for everyone.
Is it a risky way to live? Sure!
Is it worth it? Absolutely!
Accountants, lawyers and nurses — they can all be artists. So can you. Stop hiding your work. By putting your work on display for all to see, making yourself vulnerable to criticism, you have in you the makings of a Maestro or a Michelangelo.
(Image courtesy of my friend & local artist Greatjoy Ndlovo)
Originally published at https://www.leapfirst.co.za on July 7, 2020.
