The Helping Hand
The past few days have been filled with ideas, gathering new supplies; and yes painting. As an abstract painter I do not sketch, draw, or do an outline when I begin a piece. It starts with the simple act of facing the blank, stark, terrifying emptiness that is my canvas. But begin I must.
Lately, an incident from my childhood has been echoing in my head. I cannot remember exactly when this occurred, except that it involved my father and myself. So there I was, around 10 years old, doing some chore and having a very hard and frustrating time of it. Getting more and more angry and petulant by the minute. Since I am nothing if not stubborn; it took me quite a while to go and ask for any help. Finally I did; and was told "Figure it out. The helping hand is only at the end of your own arm." And he walked away. Well, you can imagine the hurt, tears and tantrum that transpired. I was crushed, and so angry I could not see straight. It took a long time for me to calm down and return to my project and finish it. I carried that advice as a hurt for many years until I realized it was some of the best guidance I have ever received. As an artist, this is the ultimate truth. No one can teach you talent, dream for you, or show you the future that is your next completed work. You have to do it yourself. So go out and practice. Acquire knowledge and technique, daydream. Visit galleries. Read art books. Nurture your own creativity. To quote the poet Yevushenko: The most beautiful, aching work in the world is to be yourself.
Lately, an incident from my childhood has been echoing in my head. I cannot remember exactly when this occurred, except that it involved my father and myself. So there I was, around 10 years old, doing some chore and having a very hard and frustrating time of it. Getting more and more angry and petulant by the minute. Since I am nothing if not stubborn; it took me quite a while to go and ask for any help. Finally I did; and was told "Figure it out. The helping hand is only at the end of your own arm." And he walked away. Well, you can imagine the hurt, tears and tantrum that transpired. I was crushed, and so angry I could not see straight. It took a long time for me to calm down and return to my project and finish it. I carried that advice as a hurt for many years until I realized it was some of the best guidance I have ever received. As an artist, this is the ultimate truth. No one can teach you talent, dream for you, or show you the future that is your next completed work. You have to do it yourself. So go out and practice. Acquire knowledge and technique, daydream. Visit galleries. Read art books. Nurture your own creativity. To quote the poet Yevushenko: The most beautiful, aching work in the world is to be yourself.
I love it! What a powerful experience! Asking for help is a courageous action but it takes to be ready and open to hear and accept the message. The old adage: "when the student is ready, the teacher appears" is so true!
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Thank you so much! The quote regarding a teacher is powerful and true also.
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Really interesting topic raised
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