The process, the behind-the-scenes champ, deserves some limelight from time-to-time. I often get asked, “how did you DO that exactly?” in regards to my art. A loaded question for sure, but I totally get the intrigue and confusion. I feel the same about high-rises built in just a matter of months, new technology, decadent desserts, sunsets, vistas, the list goes on. All architects of the previously named would most likely respond to the question with, ‘how much time you got?’ because the process leading up to the finished product is anything but simple. There’s brainstorming, dreaming, organizing, planning, researching…and that’s all before a single drop of paint hits the canvas! Even the creator of the heavens and earth took time to make sure things churned out in a specific fashion(far from the wizard-like gestures we picture him brandishing to make things appear).
what i would like you to know about ‘the process’:
It’s an ebb and flow–as in, every few moments you have to stand back, access, and gift yourself with the larger perspective that surrounds the piece. I look real funny when I paint because I’m constantly rocking back to see my work from afar. Sometimes it’s just a dab of white and then I’m rocking back 6 feet.
Things take time–while tight deadlines(I will admit) push me along, you can’t rush through the foundation you’re building for something beautiful. There will be times that things just flow out, gosh those are wonderful moments. But they’re not predictable unfortunately. I’m sure you’d agree that more often you’re hit with a rut or problem to solve. When that’s the case, that’s when your trusty tools, endurance, break-times, and creative partners can step up to the plate.
Everyone works differently–what works for me, may not feed you at all. That’s ok, just make sure you are finding that sweet spot where you are the most creative, most productive, and most yourself.
The prep is often longer than the execution–this can be so frustrating, because the whole point of doing it is because most likely you love the act of painting (or whatever your craft is). But an even worse feeling is when your final piece goes left because you didn’t think too hard about what your plan of attack would be prior. I’ve come to appreciate the amount of time spent in the process because I know that it will just better my final and set me up for success.
It’s a roller coaster of emotions and skill-testing–one stereotype about artists that is true is that we feel, more than your average person doing their job. So in the midst of working with a client, stretching your creative capabilities to land a job, you’re also experiencing connection with your work, delight and disappointment in your ability, all while meeting your deadline. It’s a crazy balance.
It’s crucial to know there is grace to mess up, start over, and change course.
SO, voila…
…a slightly unconventional list, but from my experience, important nuggets to get you to your final product…or at the very least, a sane head-space. Next time when you feel the urge to ask a creative, “sooooo, how did you do that…” you can refer back to this blog and know that behind every stroke, note, flavor, and color, there is intention and a person that has been logging in those 10,000 hours. Who knows, maybe God put in some practice rounds elsewhere before molding up our Eden and claiming it as “VERY GOOD.” Perhaps one day I’ll say the same about something I’ve made.
