Artistically, I have been in a funny place for quite a while. Being consistently unhappy with my work, had me fearful of picking up a pencil or paintbrush. I have come to realize that for a long time I had been creating art from an unauthentic place. A while ago, I put myself in a box with a label and only created art that was appropriate for that box. Everything was great for a while and I enjoyed positive responses to my illustrations (for which I am most grateful). However I had stopped myself from growing artistically. I had created my box, and I wanted to stick with it. If I felt like painting something different, I just simply didn't allow myself to.
Well as it was bound to happen... I dried up. I tried to paint and couldn't. I fretted and stressed but the art just couldn't be pushed. Two weeks ago I was chatting to my sister on the phone (also an artistic soul) and we ended up having a 3 hour phone conversation. Her advice to me, as well as some great advice from my dad, has been key. I realized I needed to throw that box away, and allow myself to be creative in all avenues.
This week I've been painting for no real purpose except for my own enjoyment! Feels wonderful!
I realize that this may mean departure from a style that has garnered me followers. I hope that my new work does not disappoint but will instead, delight and surprise you, as it has done for me.
11 comments:
Oh Kaili. Crumbs...I feel just like you desribe in the first paragraph. I feel like there is so much untapped art inside me and I just cannot let it out. I also feel like I lack the skilss to unlock any artistic process.
I think you are amazing and superbly talented. I love your new work! ♥
Quirky lips and eyes- fun and striking XX
Really happy for you Kaili- its cool to paint for yourself and not for others!...then your works reflect you! I'm famillar with you the childlike illustrator artist...Am enjoying seeing your new ideas...Maybe your just subcontiously reinventing your style and staying dynamic...XX...I love it that when the passion drys up so does the brush. Nice to see the palet is full againxx Yey for authenticity and keeping it real!!
I love your children's illustrator work but I'm excited to see everything else, too! - I'm sure the happier you are and more creative you're feeling the more it will come out in your work and we will continue to love and follow your work :) So much talent! xox
Kaili I love your blog and I hear you about the authenticity. For a while I thought I should paint how other people thought I should paint but darn it, I just love painting so I like to paint how and what I like. In my case it's reality painting and it's not real popular at the moment. Your art is fantastic and we are so much richer for you doing it Kaili. Keep up the good work. Melanie
What a thrill to discover something new from your creativity, and have the courage to share it! :) I hope you continue to nurture this part of your art. xoxo
It is only by following one's heart, one will grow as a person and as a artist.
I enjoy both style of your illustration but most of all is your honesty to your art which calls for my attention.
Well Done!
I believe that by following one's desire willingly, one become a happier person. And what happens when the world is full of happy people, we have a better world! :)
Painting for youself is the only way to go. That's why I don't like custom orders. It's very hard for me to paint what someone else wants. I love your new paintings!
Hugs,
Cathie
I hope you always paint what is in your heart! these paintings are wonderful!
Hello! I only just discovered your art, and I am thrilled you came and "followed" me on my blog, because that's how I found myself here, gazing at your incredibly unique and striking work.
i find myself in literally the opposite boat from you! I have been creating my own art and am free to create what I like, but I long to see my work published in Children's Books. With no idea of how to squeeze myself into that market, I sit and daydream every day of finally holding a book in my own hands that has been illustrated by me.
Your artwork is beautiful, and with a steady stream of followers you needen't worry about upsetting them, your style is still your own, the only difference is that now you are more free to let your own voice shine through in entirety.
Can't wait to see all the new things you create, I'll be watching avidly!!
Esta lindo, me gusta:)
Post a Comment