That’s no photoshop my friends. Last night I grabbed a painting and ripped it right down the middle.
You’re all probably thinking, whhhaaaaaat. Who rips up their own artwork!? Well, I couldn’t write this post without showing you I’m serious, could I?
Simply put, I completely believe in detaching yourself from your work. Now, I’m not telling you to go rip up all your best artwork. I’m just telling you to remember your artwork is something that’s within you. The actual art… well, it’s just stuff when you think about it. If it’s all burnt in a fire tomorrow, you will still have your technique, your ideas, and your creativity.
The first time the idea of detaching myself from my art came about was when I was applying to college. I remember applying to RISD, and part of the application required you to do a tedious drawing assignment…and then fold the artwork into a small square. At the time, I was thinking why on earth would they have me spend hours and hours on a drawing just to fold it up?! Throughout the years, the idea has stuck with me.
Being able to let your art go is not only something that will help you grow, but it will also allow you to create a business with your art (if that’s your intention). There are SO many times I’ve wanted to keep a painting instead of selling it. I’d say, “but this is my best work!”. Sometimes, I have to remind myself that it’s just one piece, and if I wanted to recreate it, I could. If I held on to every painting I ever thought was my absolute best, I’d never be able to make a living off of my artwork.
Make lots of art, and don’t be afraid of ‘ruining’ it. If you do a painting and wonder what will happen if you splatter bleach all over it, go for it! If it ruins the painting, so what!? At least you tried. Who knows, maybe you’ll find that those ‘mistakes’, are just great discoveries.
Be passionate about making art, but don’t be afraid to let go!
I could go on and on about this topic! What are your thoughts?! Do you get attached to your artwork? I’m curious!
