Frustrated Artist ?????

Does that title speak to you? It often speaks to me. In trying to be the best I can be so often I fall so short of that goal, or is that frustration just in my own mind? How many times have you said to yourself, this piece just isn't good enough, I can't expect anyone to like this. Do all artists have struggles with this? If so, what can we do to stop this sabotage in our minds? I came across an article, author unknown (if someone does know the author I would love to find out to give proper credit)

How To Feel Fulfilled As an Artist-or how to get over your self-sabotage.

1. Never compare yourself to other artists.
2. Know that your family is biased. Whether for or against, their views are skewed and do not represent an accurate reflection of your work in the world.
3.Base your success on how your art has enriched your life and how YOU feel when YOU create it.
4.Constantly push yourself to expand and learn.
5.Know that art can never be measured in dollars and will only ever appreciate in value.
6.Trust that when you are making the world more beautiful, there is always enough. Honest work is not a compromise if it supports the creation of art.
7.Remember, it is the job of the artist to create new culture, not simply to regurgitate what exists.
8.Never expect your family to understand your art, but do your best to educate them about it, patiently.
9.Whenever a client/gallery/owner/patron offers their advice, smile and nod. Then create your art authentically.
10.Remember what Dau said: "Have no fear of perfection. You will never reach it.

I have re-read this many times to help soothe my frustrated mind (or monkey mind as I like to call it). I hope in some small way by reading this, it will help you too.

Next week we will begin exploring the many contributing artists at Seranya Studios Art Boutique,www.seranyastudios.com ,and see what inspired them.

Stay tuned.