Why Do You Create?

Everyone has a different reason why they draw, paint, write, create or do anything. Just like anything in life, the reasons you do it have more of an effect on your creations than you may realize.

Some people do it because they're good at it. Some people do it just for the joy of it (RIP Bob Ross).
Some do it because it pays the bills. And others do it because it brings them a feeling of accomplishment.

None of these reasons are wrong or right, but whatever you're doing, it will either move you forward or hold you back.

Many people don't create because they believed lies they were told in the past. They might not have had a steady stream of motivators or people in their lives who inspired them to fulfill their potential. You might have had these people in school...maybe yours were certain teachers. Or maybe you have a relative who put you on a pedestal and made you believe you could be or do anything. And you believed it. But now they're gone and so is that piece that believed it. Get it back.




Once our cheering squad is gone, we are alone. But are we, really? Or has someone been watching over you this entire time, waiting and hoping for you to see who you really are and what you're capable of?

Sometimes drawing or painting can help one find balance.

There is no right or wrong answer here, because everyone has a different path. We all carry with us different experiences and truths, which it is up to only each one of us to find.

But one thing is for sure, if you are creating out of love and taking action out of passion, you are stepping forward. Let go of taking actions out of fear and learn to trust yourself. For some, this is no easy task and takes some deep introspection and inner child work.

About two months ago, I went to a live drawing demo not expecting to do anything but get some practice in. Two and a half hours later, I had a charcoal sketch. When I draw, I feel like I'm no longer thinking. Everything becomes pinpointed focus and observation. The lively chatter in the room becomes like a steady drone in my head and all I see is the many forms of the subject, all linked together in one, cohesive and beautiful melody.

Here is what was drawn in five hours. First two and a half with the model and then I was permitted to take a couple of reference photos to use for my two and a half hours later.

Charcoal on Borden and Riley Pastel and Charcoal paper 18 X 24



Julia (charcoal on paper 18 x 24)

A few weeks later, I went to another sketch night, which I am currently finishing and will post asap.

And for those of you who are interested in taking a class, the JUNE and JULY Schedules at Michael's in Riverhead is now up! All Grumbacher certified fine art classes (painting or drawing) will be taught by me.


Stay inspired!