You’re an artist too

That opting out [of creativity] that happens in childhood … moves in and becomes more ingrained by the time you get to adult life.

I watched How to build your Creative Confidence by David Kelly today and it really resonated with me.

I’ve never identified as a creative type. “I’m just a programmer”, I’d say. “I don’t have an eye for that design stuff”. But really it was a defense mechanism- a cop out- being afraid of judgement and criticism.

Here’s the truth. Everyone is an artist, musician, painter, singer, actor. Even you. Even me.

I just started oil painting a few weeks ago. For less than 50 bucks, I walked out of Michael’s with everything I needed to start slapping oil onto canvas. And I had no idea what I was doing. I’ve only made a few paintings so far, but people tell me they look pretty good. I’ve learned that it doesn’t really matter what they think, though, because I love what I’ve created. On top of that, I’ve opened a creative outlet that I’ve never experienced before. And the feeling is incredible.

That’s all it takes- there isn’t a magic club or secret society- 50 bucks and you can start calling yourself an artist too. I promise you won’t regret it. Do it. Create art.

Anyways, I have to get back to this oil painting of my cat wearing suspenders and smoking a cigar.