Most artists struggle with comparing themselves to other artists. I try hard not to do this, as it can be very damaging. It can even make you avoid painting. I enjoy reading and living by quotes, and one of my favorites is one by Theodore Roosevelt.
That quote is so true! When I am working on a painting, I will sometimes look at other paintings to see how other’s have created their art. And I always wish that my art would look more like theirs. Today though I thought more about that wish, and realized that maybe I don’t want my art to look more like theirs…. maybe I want it to look different. Like the style I have. I have heard my art described as whimsical, and I think that is a good thing. Especially when you want your art to be an escape and to make people happy.
So maybe I should embrace my whimsical interpretation. I have always liked being different, and I think it finally sunk in today, that I should enjoy my interpretation, and listen to Teddy Roosevelt. And enjoy my colorful art, rather than compare myself to others. As usual, I find that this lesson also should relate to my life as well, and I should not compare myself to others. I feel as though the older I get, every day life’s experiences and podcasts I listen to are enlightening me. So please take my little epiphany today and learn from it as well. Don’t compare yourself to that person that seems to have it all, or is thinner than you. Or has more than you. Because as Teddy says, “Comparison is the thief of joy”. I for one will be embracing my whimsical side, and enjoying being different. And I hope you enjoy it as well!
Art and Musings by Marnie 