Why yes, I am an artist.

I don't know what it is.

Maybe it's that idea that an artist is somehow "less than," by society's standards.
Or when we think of "artists," we associate some grubby, paint covered introvert, intent on making a name for himself/herself. ( without lopping off an ear, thank you very much )

Why should an artist, cower at the notion of really owning that title?

It took me a long time to refer to myself as such. I remember doing a local art show, several years ago, and when people would ask: "Are you the artist?" I would evade the question or remark with statements like, " I guess you could say that," or "Well, sort of..."

Really?

Oh how I've changed. It doesn't matter the medium, the event, or the cost, my work is my passion, and what is my title? Artist. Yes, yes I am.

For so many of us, art was a hobby, or something we "just used to do in school." When we think of the "ludicrous" idea of actually doing this for a living, we are instantly met with fear and uncertainty powerful enough to compare with the "Jr. High Cafeteria" anxiety.

"What if they don't like it?"
"What if it's not good enough?"

"What if I don't ever sell anything?"

I know, the list could go on and on. For years, I never did anything more creative than draw for my children. Then, when life fell apart, with divorce and abandonment, I was facing so much uncertainty as well as insomnia, I bought that $5.00 watercolor set. That first brush stroke became the beginning of breaking free from so much insecurity.

I first sold my cards and prints at a farmer's market. It was grueling. I had to be there on Saturday mornings, no later than 5:15 a.m. The farmers hated the artisans. But, I would leave straight from there every time and go to the grocery store. Our needs would be met, because this "artist" chose to do the hard things, and eventually it paid off. ( no more Farmer's Market thank you )

Recently, a friend with whom I collaborate delivered a bench he had made, complete with my custom artwork, to its buyers. He recorded the reaction of the recipient as her children gave the early Christmas gift, and the significance of the art work. As the children were describing the bench, one said: "See momma? That artwork was done by a real local artist, not in a store."

Why yes, I am the artist.

My dear creative souls, whether you have a fabulous studio and great licensing projects, or you are like me and are regularly creating at "kitchen table studios," own your title. Own your gifts. Own the incredible creativity that God gave us and let the "What ifs" go. "They" may never like your work, or even accept you as an artist, but your "artistry" isn't defined by "them." It's ultimately defined by the One who gave the gifts; the greatest creator of all.


Be the sculptor.
Be the carpenter.
Be the painter.

Be the artist.