The Artist's Way is not always easy...
Behind the scenes: artistic process
Picture above: me on the commissioned bench in Amersfoort
Is making art always enjoyable? My friends might think that I am always happy to create art, but the answer is more complicated.
Julia Cameron, the author of "The Artist's Way" has famously said, "Creativity – like human life itself – begins in darkness." This poignant statement emphasizes that the creative journey often starts with uncertainty, challenges, and moments of doubt. It's a reminder that not all aspects of the creative process are enjoyable, and artists must navigate through these difficult phases.
Louise Bourgeois, the influential French-American sculptor and artist, once observed, "Art is restoration: the idea is to repair the damages that are inflicted in life, to make something that is fragmented – which is what fear and anxiety do to a person – into something whole." This perspective underscores the idea that art can be a means of healing and transformation, but the process can involve confronting painful emotions and experiences.
The creative process can be a complex and multifaceted journey. It involves moments of darkness, self-discovery, and even discomfort. While not always enjoyable, it is undeniably a powerful means of expression and a pathway to understanding oneself and the world.
