I am a person of routine. It keeps me stable mentally and allows me to function. Many artists are neurodivergent, the new term for bat chit crazy.  This is often an asset for artists. We see the world differently than most, and are driven in personality. I’ve been painting since I was eight years old.

 We don’t always make the best life choices. I have made bad choices more than once. Artists who begin later in life usually avoid these errors, as they have past careers to rely on for income. 

 In many ways life time artists are extremely strong. We have faced many years of poverty during poor economies, difficult commission clients, galleries who cheat us and the rude, thoughtless public who tell us their grandmother painted better than we do. Through all of life’s trials, I’ve never regretted a single moment that I am an artist.

This country painter loves her job…

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When we talk about our art and use statements, it’s important to be sincere and understandable to viewers and collectors. They don’t want to hear art speak. They want to know about what drives and motivates us to be in front of our easels every day. 

 For landscape painters it is so much about the places we love and cherish. The land, rivers,coasts, marshes we treasure, become equally important to those who buy our paintings. 

Many of my collectors love north central Florida upland as much as I do. My collectors are not artsy types. They don’t follow trends or go to gallery openings. They love old Florida as I do. The woods, farms, and trees speak to them in a shared way. 

 My job is to express the importance of saving what is left of Florida in the paintings I do. I am a native and remember Florida as it once was. I hope that my work will show current and future generations the Florida I love so much. It isn’t about trying to convince any one I am a great painter. There are many who can out paint me all day. It is about the love and memory of a beloved place for me.  That genuine love speaks to others, not fancy words.

This country painters has a lifetime of happiness as a Florida cracker…

Artists Avoid these Problems

Avoiding Challenges

Dont be afraid to try ideas. I often spend time in the summer trying new subjects that may never sell. That’s ok. I learn from each effort. The same with sharing your work with friends. Don’t be afraid to share your experiments. 

 Indecision

I know artists who cannot make decisions. They overthink every decision to be made. Meanwhile the opportunity has already passed. I have made bad decisions now and then in my career, but I own every decision, good or bad. I weigh the options, then make my decision. I don’t over worry about the end result. 

Difficulty Forgiving  Mistakes

Artists make many mistakes, including lapses in judgement now and then. Most of what keeps us up at night has already been forgotten by others. Let go and learn from your mistakes.

Difficulty Accepting Praise 

You may be too hard on yourself if you are unable to accept praise or compliments. If you dismiss or downplay positive feedback, you are selling yourself short. Instead, accept that others genuinely like you and your wonderful art. 

Comparing Yourself to Others

Regularly comparing your art or sales to others can lead to feelings of jealousy. Social media creates this issue, as it often shows the best versions of artists’ lives. This constant comparison can foster a poor attitude. Instead, focus on your path instead of someone else’s art.

Feeling Guilty About Time Management

Artists feel guilty for taking a break from your easel. Often, science, history and other interests lure me away from the business of art. When I return I feel refreshed and ready to work.

Expecting Perfection

If you find yourself setting unreasonable standards for your art, it could be that you are too hard on yourself. Perfectionism often leads to being unhappy as an artist. No artist lives up to their expectation of greatness. This can cause anxiety, making it essential to recognize when striving for perfection is making your art career hard. 

Frequent Self-Criticism

Artists who are overly critical of themselves and their work often engage in negative thinking. If you constantly think about your mistakes or shortcomings, it may be time to reassess your attitude toward yourself. Self dissatisfaction can lead to depression and anxiety.

This country painter has struggled with these from time to time……