Learning to Sit with My Own Work

Over the past week, I dedicated considerable time to sitting with my work. Instead of painting, planning, or considering social media, exhibitions, or sales, I concentrated on observing the paintings and attending to my emotional responses. I recognized that I seldom allow myself this form of reflection. For a prolonged period, my focus was directed toward the next work, idea, or goal, consistently seeking improvement without pausing to reflect on my current position as both an artist and an individual.

This experience has significantly shifted my perspective on the nature of artistic practice. Previously, I believed that the outcome, the final painting, technical progress, or the perceived quality of the work, was of utmost importance. Recently, however, I have come to understand that the emotional relationship one develops with their work is equally significant. Art is not solely concerned with producing objects. It also involves deepening self-understanding through the creative process

Many artists struggle with the tendency to judge themselves prematurely. There is often considerable pressure placed on each painting to define personal identity or validate artistic talent. When a work does not meet expectations, frustration and discouragement can emerge, leading to doubts about progress and the completeness of one's vision. I have frequently encountered these challenges in my own practice, experiencing moments of uncertainty and questioning whether I have truly discovered my artistic voice.

I am beginning to recognize that this mindset can become detrimental if left unaddressed. Every painting serves a purpose, even when that purpose is not immediately evident. Some works represent breakthroughs, while others function as steps toward greater understanding. A painting does not need to be perfect to have meaning. Its value often lies in the emotional, technical, and spiritual lessons discovered throughout the process of creating it.

This reflection has prompted me to consider the importance of attending to emotions rather than becoming entirely preoccupied with production. Emotions are central to a sincere and sustainable artistic practice. The emotional state from which we create inevitably influences the work. When creation is guided by honesty, curiosity, wonder, or vulnerability, the resulting work acquires a distinct vitality. Conversely, creating solely from pressure, comparison, or fear of failure can gradually diminish the sense of meaning in the process.

I now regard emotional comfort as essential for artists. This does not entail romanticizing suffering or assuming that meaningful work requires emotional turmoil. Instead, it involves cultivating the ability to engage honestly with one's thoughts and emotions without immediate resistance. It requires acknowledging uncertainty without allowing it to undermine confidence and accepting periods of doubt while continuing to create with patience and care.

This emotional awareness enables art to become increasingly human over time. Many of the most influential works in history continue to resonate because they embody a genuine emotional presence. Audiences respond not only to technical mastery, composition, or color but also to the emotions embedded within the work. Art possesses the capacity to remind us of our shared humanity, a connection that arises through honesty.

I am gradually learning that artistic growth is not always measurable through external indicators. At times, growth occurs through reflection, observation, and a deepening trust in one's inner voice. Art requires time, as does the process of discovering an artistic voice and achieving self-understanding. In many respects, art and life are inseparable because both entail continual transformation.

As I reflected on my paintings this week, I realized that the objective may not be to impose a fixed artistic identity but to remain receptive to ongoing evolution. Each work contributes to a broader journey, reflecting not only technical development but also emotional and spiritual growth. By learning to sit with my work, I am also learning to engage more honestly with myself, which may be among the most significant lessons an artist can encounter.