As an artist it can be both a blessing and a curse. In one moment you are elated and inspired and then when things aren't working then you are tortured by insecurity and doubt. I try to explain this rollercoaster of emotion to others and they look at me kind of funny, hehe! Being creative and artistic is either a blessing that naturally flows or it is a draining and sometimes frustrating experience. To create on demand when you are not inspired is hard.
I am happy to say that as my kids have grown older my passion for creating and painting is in full force. I still have my days where I feel like pulling my hair out but for the most part it is fulfilling and rewarding. I thank God everyday for His blessings He has given me.
Years ago when my children came along and my life revolved around changing diapers and feedings I lost my desire to create. In the beginning I did not mind. I was in that"baby bubble" and I was content. About the time that my daughter turned two I started to feel something was missing. I started to dream about ideas and put them on paper. It took a few years but I now have my own online boutique where I sell my creations.
I have been painting on canvas for about a year and a half now. Between my business and family it is hard to find time to paint but I have three paintings now. One is completed and I have it for sale on my site and the other two are a work in progress. I am going to be brave and show you one of them that I am working on. I was hoping that by doing so I can get some feed back. Most of the time I don't like to show my work in progress. Sharing your work can be scary and humbling. An artist puts so much of themselves into their work and they always want to do their best.
This painting is of my daughter Alison and her friend. I have been working on this painting off and on for about a year. 
As I have just uploaded this I cringe a little because I can see what I need to work on. I am also a little excited though too because it feels good to share. I sit in my studio and paint my little heart out with no one to show it to. My goal is to have this done very soon because when spring comes it will be hard to work in the studio when my gardens and the birds are calling me to be outside. I cannot wait to hear from everyone who sees this what they think!! : )
Blessing ~ Nichole
To be able to paint the way you do is certainly a gift from God.
ReplyDeleteNichole, that is an amazing painting! You are so very talented! Is the one in your banner also yours? I think I remember reading that somewhere, I ahave adored that one too for along time. You have a gift from God girl! Continue to use it without fear or doubt! BEcs
ReplyDeleteNichole, I wanted to comment as one artist to another,you are definitely talened, a gift from God. I know what you mean because an artist is his own worst critic. We always see things that need correcting. I applaud you for following your dream and it is like mine, to see my art in print. I have had this vision for years, (all given by God) I can do nothing without Him. Please check out my website www.gracefulrose.com and look at my original paintings and tell me what you think. You can comment on my blog. My biggest thrill lately was that I made some note cards and check book covers with my own paintings and they have been selling! It's not the money, it's the thrill that they chose my art work. I have sold several paintings in the past 5 years but none on line yet. The beauty of an oil painting cannot be conveyed on a computer. I wish you great success. Never give up on your dream. Maybe we can be artist buddies. When I get brave, I am going to post some of my sketches of people that I have done.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous painting. You have a great talent.
ReplyDeleteHugs :)
Irma
OMG that is so beautiful--yes we all agree--you are incredibly talented!!
ReplyDeleteLove your blog!
Cola,
ReplyDeleteYou have come so very far from that first blog post. But one thing has not changed, and that is the way you create when you paint. It is so lovely to see you sharing more, and you have a wonderful way of expressing your feelings through painting. God has blessed you immeasurably. Keep painting and God will make the way for your dreams to come true!!!
Smoochies,
Theresa @ Cottage Violets
Hello Nichole!!!,So nice to hear from you,yes,I get over whelmed of late,but I do enjoy all my new blogging friends.Belive it or not,you were one of the first blogs I ever visited.I'm glad you are back,I missed you, and you know how I love your art,and of course your beautiful child.
ReplyDeleteWhich brings me to this...I can't tell what your painting needs,but I do know its just sooooooo beautiful.Of course I still love the first one,but this one is magnificent.I also love the art cards below,very sweet.I'll be back again soon,Hugs Marie Antionette
Hi Nichole,Just making the rounds and thought to say hello.Spring is in the air and I'm so happy.Hugs Marie Antionette
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