becoming a mindful artist
No artist starts out knowing whether their art will be well received. but they need to have a roof over their head and food on the table, right? Throughout history, artists have faced uncertainty and stress becomes a constant companion. Vices somehow lubricate the pain and it feels less sticky.
But what if we could turn that anxiety into something beautiful? Mindfulness is an excellent way to do just that. This practice isn't just for meditation—it's an essential part of the creative journey. The mindful artist embraces uncertainty and allows spontaneity to flourish. In this post, we'll explore practical ways to infuse mindfulness into your creative routine, unlocking deeper inspiration and self-expression.
Understanding Mindfulness in Art
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A mindful artist is a joyful artist who focuses on the process and doesn't let naysayers get in the way of creating! A mindful artist surrenders to creativity and manifests.
Slow down, connect with your artistic side, and unleash your innate creativity with this unique guide.
One of the impediments to joyful creativity is when artists meet the derision of acquaintances, so called friends, and even family members' dismissive attitude towards their artistic endeavors.
I once met a couple of older friends at Walmart who asked me how I was doing. When I mentioned I was writing, they sort snorted and laughed it off sarcastically insinuating, "are you making any money !?" They were both former teachers of mine.
Many people value art for the value others have placed on a given piece of artwork, not for the art itself. But every piece of art is valuable in and of itself as a work of consciousness, whether it becomes a hot ticket or not.
The value of art is more than the perceived market value. It is more than "art today forgotten tomorrow"– it is history, human consciousness, and energy.
In this newly revised, updated, and generously illustrated edition The author, Michael Findlay, draws on a half-century in the business and a passion for great art. It questions and redefines what we mean by “value,” addressing developments in this conversation since the book was first published in 2012: the rise of NFTs and digital art; the auction house as theatre; the pressing relationship between art and society’s fraught political landscape; and the impact of the pandemic.
What is mindfulness in art?
Mindfulness is being aware of the present without judgment. For artists, this means immersing yourself in the creative process rather than fixating on the final product.
Research shows that artists who practice mindfulness can enhance their creativity by up to 30%. By engaging fully with your work, you tap into a stream of creativity that might otherwise remain hidden. Actually, according to the experts, anyone who practices mindfulness will increase their productivity. An APA article on the Benefits of Mindfulness Meditations states, "Psychological scientists have found that mindfulness influences two different stress pathways in the brain, changing brain structures and activity in regions associated with attention and emotion regulation.
When artists step away from societal pressures, they gain the freedom to explore inner landscapes. This can break through creative blocks. A great example is how writer Elizabeth Gilbert shared her struggle with writer's block in her TED talk. Once she began to write freely, without worrying about the outcome, her creativity flourished.
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MINDFUL ARTISTS EmbracE Uncertainty as a Catalyst for Creativity
Uncertainty is an undeniable part of being an artist. Each blank canvas or empty page may fill you with doubt. However, viewing this uncertainty as an opportunity for exploration can transform your creative practice. Research indicates that artists who embrace uncertainty often report higher levels of satisfaction in their work.
For instance, consider how many renowned artists, like Jackson Pollock, found beauty in chaos. Pollock’s drip paintings brought forth unexpected results, embracing chance and spontaneity.
Practical Exercise: Create Freely AND MINDFULLY
To practice embracing uncertainty, set a timer for 15 minutes and create something without any specific outcome in mind. This could be doodling, writing a few lines of poetry, or even molding clay. The aim is to allow your intuition to guide you and to notice what arises.
As you engage in this free creation, notice any judgments or fears that come up. Recognizing them becomes easier with practice. With each session, you’ll find that uncertainty will grow into curiosity, and your creative confidence will expand.
Cultivating a Mindful Creative Practice takes perseverance
Creating a mindful art routine can be straightforward. The following tips can help you become more mindful in your practice:
Create a Dedicated Space: Designate a space just for creating. This could be a small nook in your living room or an outdoor workspace. Make sure it’s free from distractions and filled with items that inspire you, such as plants, artwork, or photos.
This is not difficult to do with just about any ordinary furniture we can acommodate. The feeling is what's important. It's your space,
mentally and emotionally, and thus creatively.
Establish a Consistent Schedule: Set aside specific times dedicated to your art. Research suggests that even just 15-30 minutes a day can significantly improve your creative output. Whether it’s in the morning or during the evening, consistency is crucial for building a habit. This is harder to do. We blame everything and anything we can on procrastinating. Do it. Just do it. Give it five minutes here and there and turn that intenionally into ten, then 15, 20, and so on. Be mindful.
Incorporate Mindfulness Techniques: Start each session with a few deep breaths. Focus on the sensations in your body to ground yourself. This practice sets a mindful tone for your creativity, helping you stay present. Breathing is the single most important skill you can learn.
Learning to Let Go of Perfection
Perfectionism can hinder many artists, leading to anxiety and self-doubt. A mindful artist shifts focus from perfection to the process itself. This change encourages risk-taking and experimentation. Furthermore, the American Psychological Association reports that over 70% of artists deal with some level of perfectionism.
When you view your work as part of a larger story rather than a standalone product, you open yourself to delightful surprises. For example, a painter might accidentally spill paint, creating an unexpected texture that enhances the artwork's appeal.
YOU GOTTA LOVE WHAT IS!
Although we may have the tendency to want only perfection who gets to say that beauty is?
Tips for Overcoming Perfectionism
Adopt an Experimental Mindset: View your creations as experiments. This shift helps relieve pressure and ignites a sense of playfulness in your work.
Embrace Mistakes: Instead of fearing mistakes, celebrate them as opportunities for growth. Some of history's most celebrated pieces have come from unexpected occurrences, such as Picasso’s "Guernica," which evolved from sketches to a poignant commentary on war.
Tell me about it! But I just close my eyes and go forward. Try get some editing and proofing from pros next time. I will repackage, relaunch. The product is promising. I am in love with my story, and I know others will love the characters and the world they co-create, their motivations and resentment, their perfect imperfections.
Limit Self-Critique: Allow yourself to create without constant evaluation. Set aside judgment for later and let your intuition lead during creation.
The Power of mindful arts in Community development to create a more peaceful and inclusive society
Art can sometimes feel like a lonely journey, but building a community can enhance your mindful practice. Connecting with fellow creatives offers support, inspiration, and shared experiences.
Joining local art groups or online communities can be incredibly rewarding. For instance, the CreativeMornings program has expanded to over 200 cities worldwide, fostering connections among artists and inspiring countless individuals. Sharing your journey with others can boost motivation and remind you that you are not alone.
Final Thoughts: Unleashing Your Creative Confidence
In a world that often prioritizes certainty and perfection, becoming a mindful artist means accepting the unknown. By embracing mindfulness in your practice, you can navigate the complexities of creativity with greater confidence.
Remember, creativity is more about the journey than the end result. Embrace uncertainty, celebrate imperfections, and lean into your artistic community. By adopting these practices, you will nurture your creative confidence and watch your artistry grow in exciting directions.
Step into this mindful approach and let your creativity flourish. The world is eager to witness what unfolds when you allow yourself to be present in the moment.
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