art school: one variable Us ceramic majors were reading Letters to a Young Artist, written by Anna Deavere Smith. "The life of an artist is risky: there's a lot to be afraid of. Poverty, no health insurance, no dignity when you can't find work, dealing with people at every level who are thinking of you as a commodity - or worse, people ignoring you, people not believing in you, dismissing your work. The supreme danger is that you could be invisible. But the fact is, you have to be stronger than all of that... You will need extraordinary physical intellectual, emotional, spiritual strength." (135)
These are a lot of things to be afraid of, but for me, the scariest element about being an artist is being in unity with what you create. As an artist you must become ONE with your art, there can not be two elements, there can not be a separation between who you are and what you create. Who and what you are will transcend onto your art, especially if you are passionate about it. First, you must not only clarify who you are, but accept who you are and embrace the spirit inside you. When you are able to live your life disregarding "society standards" will be the day you live free. Embrace fear and make it exciting - manipulate it into adrenaline. When you are one with your art, you experience full exposure, which is something many people try to avoid. Find the strength and courage to expose yourself without letting anyone bring you down or take advantage of your vulnerable position. If you are able to achieve this, there is no doubt that you will bring a presence into the room that no one can deny by finding themselves in a powerful fixation. Don't forget to stay open minded.
Second, you must keep experiencing the unknown. Try something new, travel, learn about other cultures, etc. This is an eye opener. Break out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, challenge your emotions, make yourself uncomfortable and there will be a heightened realization of what you are experiencing. Learn through pain and you will become a wise owl. Never, never feel sorry for yourself. Never hesitate to help those in need. Never forget how blessed you are. Never take your life for granted. Never take other lives for granted. Observe, listen, and understand to the best of your ability about people and their feelings. Understand your own emotions.
Last, reach out for experience, this is vital. Find time for yourself to relax and meditate, this is essential. One of the most important elements: BALANCE. Balance requires discipline. Balance requires letting go. -Elysia
