
06/07/2023
The duality of art. This is what I struggle with and I wonder if you do too. The duality of art is that intense feeling that no matter how hard you try, your chosen craft just is "not good enough." I sit down to write...
NOTHING.
I meditate...
NOTHING.
The duality of art is a blessing and a curse.
It is a blessing because it is the essence of deep seeded self-expression that all artists have and the need to share this expression with the world.
It is a curse because at times the self-critical nature of it can be too much to bear and hence have it completely put a stop to all creative idea generation; and in its place, you are left with an inexplicable anger with yourself for not being able to express what lies within.
The solution is two-fold:
1. Learn to recognize when you are struggling with "The Duality of Art." You will know it when it strikes. Its hallmarks are unmistakable -- writer's block, procrastination, negative self-talk, and all of the things that prevent you from creating. Learn to recognize your blocks and be honest with yourself when it is happening.
2. SPITE! That's right, use spite to your advantage! Create IN SPITE of "The Duality of Art!" Just sit down and let it fly! Create something to simply get past those negative thoughts that are working against you! Fight through that darkness and express whatever it is that you are feeling through your chosen medium and share it with the world...
Only then, you have truly created ART.