An Artist’s Life
Cathy Bennett eloquently writes about an artist’s life. Her words ring so true to me. We create art because we have to; it is as natural to us as breathing.
Leaps of faith are what we take. We try new things and put those things in public view. Fishbowl living; baring our souls. All of the nicks and freckles and spots are right there for the world to see. No hiding.
Finding kindred spirits and maintaining one’s sense of self in a world that relishes conformity is an interesting path. Sharing a way of being, communicating without words having to fill the quiet spaces, asking questions and questioning answers is how I am. Rudyard Kipling wrote, “The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. To be your own man is hard business. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself.”
August 22nd, 2007 at 2:56 pm
Thanks for your kind words, Debra! Being an artist is such a great, great path! Of course, like you say, it’s not really a choice more like a privilege. So, onwards!!
August 22nd, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Pardon this response, Debra, but my mind works in strange ways and, after reading your quote of Kipling, I’m wondering if the “American Idol” judges have read him. All three are into the contestants “owning” what they perform. Guess that is art…in a way.
August 24th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Well, you know I love Cathy…and I love you…and I love art…and I am grateful for the reminder that sometimes it means being lonely and afraid…that’s the price. Fortunately, that doesn’t last, but the benefits of the artistic endeavor, whatever it may be goes on and in and on and in.
hugs.
August 24th, 2007 at 10:27 pm
Larramie–sorry to say I have not watched American Idol…..
Kelly, my friend. The artistic endeavor (great expression!) is not a choice. It just is. And it reaches into every aspect of our lives.
August 24th, 2007 at 11:32 pm
Actually, Debra, you’re probably not sorry about not watching American Idol, you’re smart!