An Artists New Years Resolution

An Artists New Years Resolution

It has been suggested that almost one third of British people will set a New Year's resolution tonight (https://www.forbes.com/uk/advisor/life-insurance/new-years-resolution-statistics) - mostly to do with having over indulged during Christmas, too much food, chocolate, alcohol etc; or maybe recognising we need to change our life choices. We focus on positive changes – to get physically or mentally fit and the 1st of January is a date that is perfect as it gives us an opportunity to break from any past mistakes (old  year) and re-invest in ourselves (new year). Sometimes we succeed in our New Years Resolutions, sometimes we fail. But what we should do is resolve to be just kinder to ourselves. Too many people get depressed in February after failing in their New Years goals.

Artists are not kind to themselves. We are usually overly critical of our own work, highly anxious, and always stressed (deadlines and artist block)

So, my New Years Resolution is not to visit more galleries and museums or paint more (though I want to), or even to promote myself better on social media (I know I need to).

No, my New Year Resolution is to be kinder to the artist me. To be less self-critical about my Artwork but still seek out positive criticism from people I respect. I recognise I am lucky enough to be following my passion and I’m enjoying the creative process. Each painting is a road travelled. It might be a rocky one, it might be a smooth one; but it is still me moving forward, helping me find my personal art style.

Art can change your life , and creating art that you love is a form of self-love.

So, in 2024 on my painting journey I am going to strive to be kinder to me. Happy New Year everyone and especially to all artists out there. Be kind to yourself.