Quit Chasing Your Tail

“Don’t think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.” -Andy Warhol

 

Have you ever owned or been around a cat? Cats can have a wide range of personalities, yet somehow there is a widespread notion that all cats are indifferent toward people unless it suits their end goal, such as a belly rub or food.

 

In reality, most animals utilize their actions to some degree in order to get their desired result. So, how did cats manage to build such a reputation?

 

Well, it's all in how they act and react to the situation.

 

For example, there was a cat named Sassy with the stereotypical cat personality, long gray fur, and greenish-yellow eyes. She decided to jump down from the windowsill and use a pot of pink petunias to cushion her landing. WHILE being chastised by her owner, she sauntered off down the porch, laid down in the sun, and stretched out with a big yawn. On the other hand, when we chastize our dog, Ginger, her body language immediately changes to communicate shame and remorse for her actions.

 

Now, was that pot of pink petunias really the issue? No, but even though Sassy's reaction afterward led to frustration, it is also something we can learn from.

 

My point is there are times when we feel like our work is being chastised. Sometimes, the comments are made out of sincere interest in our growth. Other times, the comments are made haphazardly and without true thought or consideration. Learning to allow these UNconstructive comments to roll off our shoulders is ESSENTIAL for our growth as artists.

 

If you keep trying to please everyone, you will always be chasing your tail. However, if you take in the information, assess its value, and then think through an appropriate response (which can be no response at all!), you will have a lot more opportunities to feel like you're in the sun.

 

Hand-painted in Adobe Photoshop CC using the Wacom Intuos Pro and the Wacom Art Pen.