How to NOT be insecure!

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

***Also, the book I mentioned, The War of (not on!) Art, by Steven Pressfield (not Priestfield!) oops, sorry about that! But I really hope you enjoyed the video as I feel so passionate about this topic! Much loves and thank you for watching!

[@natalievallee-nicolls4833]

It's a good book. I think anyone who creates is an artist. Creativity comes in many forms.

[@hlnmarie]

Artist is how you're wired.

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

@@natalievallee-nicolls4833 thank you! and yes, completely agree!!!

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

@@hlnmarie yup true true!

[@rgporter1957]

This was a great video with lots of good information to chew on and ponder. it's easier for me to consider myself a "creative" than to declare myself an "artist". I'll Jane to think more on the why of that one. Thanks, Wendy, for giving me all this to think upon. 🤔 💗

[@carolynsfo]

“He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.” ― St. Francis of Assisi (13th century) This works for me! Change the pronoun to suit. Be blessed, C.

[@Fiderelske]

Love that!

[@rl4424]

Aww I love that!

[@BarbaraTristan444]

🙏 Amen 🙏

[@anima6035]

Perfect ☺️🙏

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

check out my next video because I've put you at the end!! xxxx Love this reminder of this fabulous quote, thank you xxx

[@jobes4525]

Being an Artist isn't just about painting/drawing or even being creative. Being an Artist is a lifestyle & a connection with one's self & the environment around them and how we communicate this to the world. There's no failure only feedback. ❤️

[@kristenmarosi8559]

Best answer ever. No ego. Very inclusive. You have a good outlook and I appreciate you sharing your answer.

[@Eclecticcelestial]

Thank u❣️

[@WordTrix1]

And a quote for you, since you are fond of Picasso: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Yes, I almost put this quote in too! Love this one, thank you xx

[@nekok9257]

I have this quote in my craft room

[@magdastar2249]

Love that. ❤️👍

[@elinmor89]

Love your video, Wendy ❤ I love art- journaling, I love painting, drawing, collage, writing and a lot other things. I do it for myself, I don't show my art to anyone and it's not my job. I do it as an hobby. It's something to do on my freetime and it makes me happy. I love being creative and make something fun 🙂🥰 I see myself as an artist. For me people don't need to sell something to be an artist. If you love doing art and being creative, then you are an artist🙂 At least that's how I see it ☺

[@jolee6049]

Totally agree ❤

[@wcked-ds2tw]

Biggest take away from this for me is that art or your artistic creation has to come from your heart I feel that I have totally shut down emotionally recently and I have lost that connection with myself. Now I have identified this it’s something I can work on to get my spark back xxx

[@swiminthesea6724]

It comes and goes in cycles, grab it when it next visits x

[@SaltLifeGypsy68]

Dear Wicked, use the disconnect to fuel your art. Because right now, that's what is in your heart. I feel that. I live in a space in that in between. Somedays art pulls me out, others I can tell it was a dark day. I spend a lot of time with my granddaughter. She helps. We have a saying..."what color was your day today?" I've learned to embrace both the bright and dark days. Neither last forever. Hugs 🫂

[@letsbehonest01]

when I loose my momentum, I start organizing my art supplies, looking through some of my unfinished projects, or something I completed, but its not quite right yet. Kinda takes the pressure off to create something new. Going over things reminds me that I can do it again, I've done it already. Its ok to refresh your creative mind.

[@leannecox6427]

Hi Wendy, I think we are all artists and it’s whether we choose to express it. I also think you can learn artistic skills. I gained lots of confidence and courage from you to start learning to draw (thank you 🙏)because I used to think that you were either good or not at art. Unfortunately I think school didn’t help this. I’ve learned that there is no good or bad art, it’s a matter of opinion. You have given me permission to have a goo and that’s so valuable. Thank you 🙏 xx

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

So glad to hear this Leanne, I think you are so right that school really doesn't help! Quite the opposite... and absolutely can everyone learn the skills to draw!! Well done and go girl!! xxxx proud of you, it's no easy task! xxxx

[@ErinLovegood73]

I had a hard time saying I was a writer, even though I have written short stories for years. I finally asked a proper professional writer. And she said, "If you write, you're a writer." It has stuck with me ever since. I may never publish anything but it makes me happy.

[@collageartist-jacquied3180]

Yes!!! That is a fantastic way to think…🌷

[@christinaheesakacowden-wut3809]

Hey Wendy, my "Curtain Queen". You look like you lost so much weight dearest, I am really worried! Please do take care of yourself. I was in that state before, when I did only raw vegan for 2 years. I had lost 88 pounds and gotten so skinny, that I had to put a stop to it. It`s hard to find the right way of healthy eating, especially when you are ill, like me. I have rheumatoid arthritis and I have been battling this for 7 years now. I have not yet found the right balance between the raw and the cooked vegan foods and the gluten/ nightshade intolerances (food sensitivities in general). dear Wendy. I wish you all the best, for your body and soal and mind. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. P.S.: It is a waste of energy to think and contemplate on the definition of an artist. Just do what you love and be creative, no explanation needed there. Isn`t our creator the biggest artist of all? And aren`t we made in His image?! So there. We are all artists, in different shades of "grey" ;-) lol. If somebody asks you, what your occupation is, just tell them: Hi, I am Wendy, and I draw and paint ..." Interesting also is the story of Moses on mount Sinai, when he talks to the burning bush and God tells him his name. God tells Moses htat his name is "I am that, I am ".... So, every time you use these 2 words and add something to them, you will take the Lord`s name into your mouth. If you say: "I am an artist", so shall you be. But beware of the negative statements, because they will also manifest.

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Don't worry dear one, I've been ill ... I don't think i could ever go raw vegan, so you were strong to try that route xx I hope you find some healing ways to eat soon, xxx btw, 'curtain queen!!! ' love it! xx

[@jnordfors]

I was nearly 60 when the art teacher at the school where I teach called me an artist. I was thrilled beyond belief. I can now comfortably say, “Yes, I am Artist.”

[@katebeattie5540]

To allow myself to say I'm an actress after being involved with amateur theater groups for years took me a bit of getting used to. It was the realization of my doing this for me...for the love of it! So to say the same about being artist whether for a living or the love of seems a great way of presenting oneself to the world. Thank you Wendy for your inspiration!

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Awesome to hear Kate! And thank you too, for keeping me company!! xx

[@StephanieGarrettCreative]

Love this! I am an artist! I don't allow anyone to define me, I define myself! I don't allow someone to put me into a box and shove me in a corner! I was a trained actress for well over 20 years, and I once had a casting person actually tell me I wasn't an actress even tho I was there to audition! I corrected her and told her I was indeed an actress and she had no right to define me, Period! She looked at me funny and needless to say I didn't get that job but I stood my ground and it felt good too to that! Thanks for the video!😊😉

[@DebraofSENC]

Good! Glad you stood your ground. I am new here and your comment resonated with me.

[@anniemoonchild4967]

Ahhhhhh... another stunning video with an interesting topic. For me it's simple... how to be an artist/creative is in your blood - it's a passion that stays with you through your life... as you go through life and if you always find yourself back at your art/creative desk doing what makes your soul happy (regardless of the time frame) then you are an artist/creative. After recovering from a car accident (broken neck and fractured right ulna) pain halted me drastically and still does, now I push through regardless I've started an art journal that is so messy, but I'm having the most fun now than ever before because by being arty/creative my heart and soul is happy I don't worry about perfection... I'm just grateful to be making a beautiful mess. For me that's art/creativity - just doing it and getting it done 🌜

[@ljshaw8516]

Ironically enough, last night I art journaled the words "Be Your Authentic Self" - wow your video today resounded deeply in my artist's heart and mind reflecting on yesterday's words. As you spoke your wise words on True Creativity, I nearly cried as I've been struggling with my own words when people call me an artist..."oh no I just doodle". I will never speak these words again. Thanks for your encouragement, kindness and empathy in understanding many of your viewers who learn every week from your wisdom. x's LJ

[@sagepremoe1565]

Even doodling is an artistic expression. I would like to see "just" be taken out of our vocabulary, it's so off-putting.

[@txspacemom765]

It's like being a Mom (best I can relate). Even when you child or children move out and go on with their lives, you are still a Mom, but it's in a different way. If you say you are an artist, you are. If you say you are an athlete, you are. Live your best life, doing what you love, and don't worry about labels. My artistic side and my ability as an artists flows throughout all of the my life, everyday. The power point I did yesterday was artistic, creative, as was the painting I did, which allowed me to be an artist too. I am just do it and love it and be it kind of person, without overthinking it.

[@SaltLifeGypsy68]

🥰❤❤

[@amadiez]

Such an important topic/conversation to have! Thank you so much for making this beautiful video about it! I think that, rather than proving to ourselves that we are artists, allowing and giving ourselves permission to be one is what makes us artists! We are all worthy of embodying who and what we want to be! :) And perhaps that allowance might help ease the paralysing resistance that can show up when we’re creating.

[@rachelsutcliffe2144]

I little needle felting artist . I only do it part time as I'm also a worker bee for a big UK supermarket. I'm a happy Fae when my creative mind wakes up and says "make this today". I sell my little creations at local craft markets just share the happiness I felt whilst making my creations and the people buy them feel happy too. My definition of being an artist is : seeing a world inside ready to burst to share with others. ❤️

[@feliciathomasart]

Ha! I'm glad you can relate to my 'paintbrush in the coffee cup' moments! I decided to call myself an artist. One day I was at a meeting where I didn't know anyone. A man asked me my name and what I did. I took a deep breath and said,' I'm an artist.' He didn't laugh (which is what I was expecting) he called over his friend and said, 'This is Felicia, she is an artist' and suddenly there were two people who believed me..... then I slowly started to believe what I knew deep down about myself.

[@alexandraalmeida3661]

Hi, Wendy! So nice to see you feeling better 🥰🥰. I am an English and Portuguese teacher, I have a degree on it, but I’ve always considered myself an artist too. I never attended an art school, but I make art since I was a child. And, like you, I believe that art assumes many forms: painting, drawing, embroidery, stitching, crochet, sewing, cooking, dancing, acting, gardening, .... I paint, draw and crochet since I was a child, because my mother taught me how to do it and I immediately enjoyed it. Later on, I learnt slow stitching, embroidery and mixed media. I don’t do that as a job, buy I do it as a hobby and self care, since making art is a way, for me, to keep my inner balance and deal with frustrations and problems of life. I don’t know anyone in person who likes art (my mother is in a nursing home, not capable now of talking or enjoying whatever I would show her, unfortunately), so last year I decided to create my instagram page to show others my art and establish connections and conversations about art, which I can’t do with the ones I know in person, unfortunately (they don’t consider me an artist, they say I “do eccentric stuff”...). I still don’t feel comfortable in showing paintings or drawings or art journaling (I posted some, but very few and I don’t like them as much as I should, maybe...), but I post my stitching, my embroidery, my art journals that I make myself, my crochet, etc. It’s been so nice to have established some virtual friendships with other artists and feel inspired by them. I am an artist, I simply don’t live of art and I don’t have a degree on it. I believe an artist is someone who makes something that touches other people’s heart. And it doesn’t have to be what I do. I follow many artists who don’t do what I do, who do art that I admire, but don’t want to experiment. I mean, I can very well enjoy looking at a watercolour painting and love it, in spite of not wanting to paint with watercolours. So, if someone touches my heart with a painting, a stitching piece, a book, a dance, a work with wood, then I believe that person is an artist, and it doesn’t matter if he/she has a degree or not. In Portugal, art is seen as a thing for the eccentric people (in a bad way) and it’s very, very difficult to live of art here, because art is seen as a useless thing. The people I know look at me as an eccentric person (a crazy person) who gathers stones and drifted wood and leaves and branches to make art. For them, I make stuff with garbage. But I don’t care. I consider myself an artist. And if, by any chance, my work has touched someone’s heart on instagram, then it was worth having posted it. I never regretted not having a degree on art, I never regretted having my degree on teaching, but I am an artist, because I do it almost everyday, even if not the same kind of art. Thanks for keeping me company. See you next week. Love from Portugal ♥️✨🌈🌹😘🤗

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Aww, so interesting to hear Alexandra, and sorry to hear that Portugal generally looks upon an artist that way... I love that you are doing your thing anyway!! Go girl fly!!! You totes got htis!!! xxxx Thanks for keeping me company too,,, xxx

[@emman.3653]

Dear Alexandra, thank you to share your way of life as an artist. It is very inspiring to me. To have so many ideas and that curiosity to just practice and than inspire other people with that energy - that is a real artist to me. You are, indeed. Best wishes to you ❤️

[@alexandraalmeida3661]

@@emman.3653 Thank you so much, Emma, that means more than you may think. It really touched my heart. Best wishes to you too ♥️♥️

[@katiewest7908]

What a lovely, affirming, video. I was happily confident in calling myself an artist (small a because it wasn't my profession but my joy). Then was quite deflated when an acquaintance interrupted my list of various projects with a "Oh, you're a crafter". My feelings were hurt until I reflected. Yes, I do craft. I take materials and create things, usually as gifts for others. I don't sell my art, it's not reviewed. But I've seen others respond to it. It's part of my experience with the world no matter what it's called. If art is only Art when it's profitable, I guess Vincent Van Gogh was a mere " crafter". Thank you for such a delightful video today. Have to go "art" now. Not sure if it will involve dance, the garden or the pile of paper scraps going into the mini journal.

[@rhonnachurch6929]

I think an artist is someone who is compelled to make art, who is happiest creating something, someone who can thrive when the creativity is flowing uninterrupted. My hangup about myself being called an artist, I do folk-ey kind of mixed media art or jewelry out of found items.... Only I don't make a living( but I have a stockpile of paintings now).

[@user-uc3ep6qc5o]

Since watching all your amazing videos the last 18mths I've found the confidence to call myself a artist and I sign all my pictures. I dont sell my art but give it to family and friends. I work with watercolour and also love exploring different mediums. Always have a sketchbook and kit in the car and my handbag for doing quick sketches. Thank you for inspiring us all Wendy

[@sandiellis8305]

Thank you for inspiring me ....a kit in the car is a great idea ....... I am an artist First time I've said that xxx

[@user-uc3ep6qc5o]

@@sandiellis8305 Well done .its amazing how many little sketches/ journaling you can get done in the time waiting for kids to come out of school or at the dentist/doctors I also have a bag with small crochet projects in

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

love this, love that you sign your artwork too! As you should xxx

[@jamilikins5185]

sounds like me as well to a tee..

[@jmitch5161]

Dear Wendy, I've really loved this question. You've really got me thinking. I do various crafts on and off but drawing horse faces and birds of prey is my thing. Self taught, no college etc. I don't sell and always considered 'an artist' as someone who makes a living from it. I'm always asked why not sell. I've never thought I had the right to call myself such as no training etc snd I can only draw when I get ' the feeling'. I'd be propper skint! Deffinately a question to ponder though, thankyou. I nodded along with so many points. You are as always such an inspiration and bright shining light. Love and blessings 🙏

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

I know, such an interesting one isn't it... I've thought about it all week now like an obsessed crazy person really!! Haha! I have to say, you sound like an artist to me!!! xxx

[@sally-annllewellynartist9362]

Definitely go for it. There's room for all styles and genres. X

[@signeknudsen8513]

Most of my life I gave away or sold the things I made. I think probably I appreciated each thing I made more than anyone who received them. Only I knew the small decisions I had made while making something, what was happening in my life at that time, where in my artistic journey that item belonged. I treasure the things I made and wish I had more of them. Rather than encouraging artists to sell their work, I think they should be encouraged to create and keep abody of work, to give space to displaying and enjoying them as only the artistt can.

[@melissaamyx2196]

@@signeknudsen8513 I too sold my art in the beginning. I didn't feel like I deserved the title "artist" unless I made money with it. Now, several years down the road I don't sell any of them. For me it's become a journey through life, a visual image of where I was at the time of my painting. And yes, I too feel like I appreciate my pieces more than any who bought what I sold. But I think the most important thing I've learned is that I AM an artist, I've learned that an artist are those souls who see all the beauty around them and feel it deep inside... painting or creating is a response to capture that fleeting beauty that touched your soul...

[@After40Art]

I was waiting, that self sabotage thing hit home. I have some trauma around art so I would do it for a while and then avoid it for years. This time I'm determined, for myself to get better and keep going and try to turn the voices off. I hope my daughter keeps painting, she started when she was 4y my walls are filled with paintings. I try to encourage her, also because I have recently noticed she gets very moody when she hasn't had time to be creative. After she paints or draws for a few hrs it's like a switch for her and you can see it in her entire essence. Doesn't always fit in so well with homework and other maditory activities. She will get there in time.

[@user-uc3ep6qc5o]

So glad to hear it's not just me that getting grumpy if I've not been able to do any art. Hope you can push through and create. Maybe a joint project with your daughter

[@isabelchacon9721]

I am a painter, I don't know if I am an artist...but I do put my heart and soul in every painting I paint...and I love all the different expressions of art 💜

[@melissamcardle5729]

Whether you're a Professional Artist, Amateur Artist, Hobby Artist, Full-time Artist, or Part-time Artist, You are all still an Artist! - it's in whichever title you choose, they all say Artist last! The first is just explaining what stage of Artist You Are! But you are still an Artist!

[@margaretgeorge3903]

Thank you Wendy, your energy was quite high in this video, and really picked me up. My energy has been so low and then recently I’ve been working harder at my art. This morning at 7.30!!! I got up and finished a mix media piece - where did that come from! Sometimes the artist won’t lie still, needs to come out and work. Most of the time it’s a slog, but sometimes there is brightness - you are very bright and recharged, so thank you for sharing 🤗

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Xxx makes me happy to hear Margaret. xx There was some interesting astrology this very morning if you are into that!! James and I also felt very energised!!! A Mars and Jupiter conjuction!! xxx mmm could be what you experienced... interesting indeed!!!!

[@2joynow42]

Yes Wendy … perfect contemplation 💝 & my story I always knew I was creative but thought I wasn’t an artist because I couldn’t draw. Recently I went to school as a mature person & discovered that I could 😱 I’ve had to dig deep & change my self perception. I embrace being an artist now. The next step is exactly your message. I am procrastinating in the busy-ness of my home & garden instead of being in the studio creating & finding my place as an artist. Thank you for this gentle prompt in perfect timing 💖✨ Thank you for voicing what I deeply feel & shining bright lights in the dark corners. Love your work Wendy 🧚‍♀️🌷

[@michelepastele5347]

Hi Wendy - it sounds like you're dealing with burnout and overwhelm re. making the videos. We would follow you even if you just put a video out sporadically, and that would be okay. There are a number of video channels that just put out videos from time to time when it works for them and they still have lots of subscribers! x

[@sherryscarvings]

I’m In USA and I’m an “artist”. I’d like to say thank you for this video. I became very sick over the past couple years, doing better and I have lost my creativity or mojo. I love art! But I’m struggling at getting back to creating. I want to but I feel blank. What would be a great ice breaker for me? I love animals, wildlife, nature, and fairies. Song Birds are a favorite. But I just set and I feel blank. Don’t know why or how to get started. You are so inspiring. You are like a fairy queen creating the next fairy adventure. I want that excitement. That mojo! Thank you 😊

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Hi Sherry ,, have you seen my video from a few weeks ago called- How to Start! It might help😙😙😙

[@MrsBarnabas]

Maybe you've found your answer, Sherry, but in case you haven't: Take a large sheet of paper - the largest that you can find. Get out your paint, make a colour - any colour - in your palette and then stick the index finger of your non-dominant hand (not the one you write with, but the other one) in it and make marks on the paper. Just do it, as a 3 year old does. Then maybe add another colour, and do the same. Then take a paint brush and splatter big blobs. Next, walk away. Make a cup of tea / coffee / do something else, then go back, prop up that painting and allow yourself to see the wonderful creation that you've made. It's a unique work of art. It's beautiful, because it came from inside you. As you look, you may see shapes of things in the blobs and smears. Pick up a pen (NOT a pencil) and outline what you see. It's fun. Scribble on the page, make marks, any marks. Be that toddler having fun. You are creating art from within yourself, from that inner child that helps to make us artists. It's been swamped and you are setting it free again. And it's beautiful. Repeat as required. Perhaps this may even lead to a new way of making art for you. Just let it happen and over time, you'll see the change, in yourself, in what you are doing. Just enjoy it. Please, just play, and enjoy it. And please, do comment here so that I can know that you've read this, and how you are, because I'd really like to know.

[@MrsBarnabas]

@Laura Fran It's really tough pulling out from that stuff, as I know very well, but you've just made a giant step - that is, that you think that you'll make the effort. Well done!!! Don't wait - if you can, grab that paper now, so that you can't let your weary self talk you out of it. It doesn't need to be any more than a sheet of printer paper. Maybe you can't do all you want with it right now, but having it out will help you to carry on playing. Just a few finger splodges will make you smile!!! 😊

[@MrsBarnabas]

@Laura Fran 😊

[@Paul-su3qh]

Is it fear that keeps you from doing what you want and love to do? Why not just do it? Start by doing something simple and childlike. Something uncomplicated. Set yourself a target day one simple sketch every day for Seven days and stop, the revaluate what you have done. Then set yoursel a slightly more in depth drawing every day for a week and take it from there. Once you have done it put it aside and leave it. Walk away and focus on something other than drawing. Do not stop to think about it or to be critical of what you have done, just do it then forget it. After a month of doing this then you can reflect on your sketching and see what you can improve on. Take it from there and do not be hard on yourself. If a drawing goes wrong, just put it to one side, take a deep breath and start again say to yourself" I can do this!!!!. Try it . Take care now.

[@dreasbears1699]

I started watching this wondering if I would be validated in my "imposter syndrome ". I've always referred myself as a "maker" but I feel more confident in calling myself an artist as I make my living selling my art and as a Ballet Educator, I think that qualifies me as an artist ❤️

[@riotthill]

Unfortunately, we live in a society that sees monetization as legitimizing a profession, especially in the creative fields, yet I doubt anyone questions, when they view the Caves at Lascaux, that they are in the presence of artists.

[@skysea9359]

Well said Wendy! I've never paid my bills with my art but it's my love of expressing something much deeper through my various art loves that's kept me sane and strong enough to do everything else. For many of us our😊 art is just as important as air and nourishment...

[@madelynsmith8281]

You are the wise Wendy! I believe for me this was your best video ever. It really spoke to my heart and soul. I am guilty of letting fear take over way to many times. Those are very good points Wendy. I will definitely take that in consideration too push through the fear and negativity of pulling back. I love a lot of my artwork, but I am guilty of not pushing myself in other areas to learn and grow as an artist. Thanks again for all the encouragement, much needed each and everyday. ❤

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

haha, sometimes Madelyn!! And thankyou yes, I think so too!! I worked very hard to make it from my very soul!! Thanks for feeling it!! We artists need encouragement.... xxx We totes got this!!! xx

[@kerenvalentin7082]

Thank you Wendy, you have given me a lot to think about. I will give myself permission to allow myself to be an artist and a writer. Thank you for your words of wisdom and your courage.

[@enamary1]

Yes, Wendy, without doubt I can say, 'I am a creative being', and feel the truth of it, now and always! Easy, sneezy. But to say, even think myself as an artist has always been a big problem. You've hit the nail on the head, as you so often do. Thank you.

[@letsbehonest01]

Great topic! I have wrestled with this myself. I feel very self conscious calling myself an artist because that is usually followed up by where did I study....what is my medium....ect I am self taught. I turned to art expression after losing much of my family.....my sweet, beautiful, sensitive daughter (30r), 8 months later my Mom very unexpectidly, 10 months later my Dad after a long fight with kidney disease,and dialysis, 11 months after that my wonderful sister(59) from a rare brain cancer....glioblastoma....a word I never thought would be part of my vocabulary.......and 6 weeks after my sister died, my sweet younger brother (49)encouragingdecoupage ect. and I have even sold a few pieces of jewelry. I fall into the category of aspiring artist I guess.. I get so fully immersed in a project, that before I know it, 6-8 hours have flown by. I feel there is so much sadness, and unfortunate things going on in the world we have no control over, that I try to create some beauty, and magic with my projects. I am sorry this is so long, but art and the ability to escape into a project has been such a needed mental recharge.

[@mariaiqbalart]

Wow Life has thrown everything at you and yet your joy shines through this post. Im so sorry for all your loss.

[@wyldwyrdwytch]

The idea of calling myself an artist filled me with shame at thinking I was special or talented or could create anything people would enjoy. I told myself this from a child. A lifelong creative shutdown. Wouldn't allow myself to "waste time" drawing or painting. Now, in my 40s I own the word and celebrate my artistry as much as I can, without shame and with as much joy as possible! Anyone reading this who wonders whether they have the right to own their artist self - yes, you do. Waste no more time and create with abandon. Life is the ultimate artist and when we cut ourselves off from that energy, we wither. ❤

[@dianepaulin5324]

Having the need to create, be it a painting, a quilt, a cake or a floral bouquet, i feel makes you an artist. Writing a poem, taking a lovely photo, is an artistic expression. I feel we are all artists in our own way.

[@qso3566]

It is not necessary to analyze what it means to "be" an artist ... just BE. I absolutely disagree that every single person is creative, that's not true at all and not every person can be an artist. I personally have known quite a few people who literally had not ONE shred of creativity anywhere in their character, just shallow and bland personalities who never had an original idea about anything. Wendy, I don't mean this as an insult, but are you aware of how thin you are? It looks as though you've lost a good bit of weight and like you don't feel well. As I once posted before, try to reduce your need to analyze everything ... for instance, your new studio was so spacious and bright and now it's cluttered ... you have too much "stuff", that's part of what is dragging you down ... and get rid of that horrid green drink (do you really think it's helping you?) and eat something fun & good tasting that will add some calories.

[@stanislavaTGCR]

To me an artist is someone who makes art, whether they are paid for it or not, whether they are very productive or not. The tricky question is what is ART actually? There are so many opinions here. Is it all about high technical skill? Is it about expression regardless of the skill level? Or does it depend entirely on the perception of the viewer? Is every creative work a work of art (I dare say it can be!)? I heard a really nice and simple definition once: ART is communication achieved through aesthetics (any type of aesthetic, not just visual - even if you just live beautifully and the work of art is your own life). To have aesthetics you need some skill (whether natural or acquired). To have true, worthwhile communication you need both authenticity (person A expressing something) and relevance to the viewer (person B listening). This applies even if person A and person B are one and the same and we are only communicating with ourselves - it's still art to us. Many great artists have only been recognised as such later in life or even after their death because of the missing relevance factor - their art was just ahead of their time. Meanwhile many skilled artists make a living creating art that's relevant to their audience but not to themselves (so no authenticity). I still consider them artists, just not the happiest ones :) Great, timeless art brings all three factors to a very high level. How high that level must be for a person to be considered an artist and not an amateur is mostly a matter of opinion, but I think any level is a good starting point and there is endless potential to be realized. I think the most important thing to remember is that any of these points can be improved by any person and that there is nothing to be ashamed of when you start at beginner level. So have confidence in your ability to learn and improve in any sphere and happy creating!

[@Didomum]

Talking about if your an artist or not. I have heard this question for so many years to me it one of them chicken v eggs questions we all ask some time in our life . It’s labels really. I don’t like labels, you are what ever you what to be. This is something I told my kids as they grew up. I have one photographer/artist and one writer plus one that’s just happy being alive lol. Me? I wont label myself.

[@signeknudsen8513]

You brought up a lot of interesting points regarding being an artist. I have always loved creating things. Because I didn't do "fine art," drawing and painting much, I didn't think of myself as an artist. I liked to try new things so tried my hand at throwing pots, silversmithing, leather working, crocheting, weaving, knitting, candle making, beading, collaging, drawing, painting,, photography, needlepoint, sewing clothes, kumihimo braiding, quilting, flower and vegetable gardening, ikebana, flower pressing and collaging, doll making,basket making, paper cutting, playing clarinet and flute and koto . . . But it wasn't until I had done these crafts and I was 60 years old that I called myself an artist. I felt happy to realize that and declare that. Yet every day of my life I have been creative.

[@marnierose7816]

If you find a creative way to express your emotion through an art form you are an artist, Wether you draw, paint, write, or express yourself through music you are an artist, in my humble opinion...regardless of wages.

[@sharonklauser1817]

Yesterday I found my medium paint brush in my coffee with a large brush in between my teeth painting away with my small brush. Happy as could be. At this point I just do what I love without a thought of labels. I taught dance am I a dancer? My degree is in English and I just finished a novel does that mean I am a novelist? I taught English classes I guess I am a teacher. I am a mother grandmother and great grandmother, oh my there's so many things we do but does that make up who we are? Hum I guess in a way. Now I have lost myself musing about what it is to be an artist. Alls I know is when the image needs to be born whether in word or illustration I have to do my best to create the closest resemblance. It's almost a primal urge, but I still don't think I would call myself an artist although I really like some things I have done.

[@felicagriswold7276]

I am a creative, however, I've been told I'm "just" a crafter - not a real artist. Once that hurt me, but then I decided I'd rather be a creative-crafter-artist than someone that is ornery, judgmental and so miserable within themselves that they feel they have the right to trample on others. I now create for me. If someone likes it good, should someone offer to buy it good but if you hate it or think I'm just a hack then good for you too. It pleases me to make or at least try to make. I do not limit myself with any labels and it makes my life so much happier. I think there are many layers to the definition of artist so I think many are artists. Perhaps a professional artist is one that makes their living from what they put out. Hmmm, many more hmms than answers I think. Thanks for your lovely thoughts and words today. It is a good question.

[@CPhoto1111]

Great video Wendy. Your channel inspires me. I will say making a full time living as an artist is possible and difficult especially without a large social media following. KZbin especially makes a difference. The reach in social and KZbin is much different than a non social experience of sharing and selling art.

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Thank you for your kind comment, makes me so happy to hear and I agree totally; if you are a selling artist Cheryl yes. The internet is a real gift for that... also a curse in anohter light.... but it certainly opens up the world and helps us find our tribe of like minded and hearted beings.... xxx

[@hopejoyfaith7524]

Wendy thank you for you authentic videos! You are the one good thing that came out of lockdowns! If you could perhaps create a video of the resource books you own I would be most appreciative. I look on amazon but there is so much to choose from I end up with nothing and feeling overwhelmed. would love to hear if you have any recommendations on books for beginners and intermediate artists. much love to you and James

[@lisasternenkind6467]

Everybody can be creative, but this does not make him or her an artist. That's for sure. Being an artist does not have anything to do with selling the art or how you learned the techniques you are using. It's all about coming up with unique creative ideas and bringing them to physical life, while truly using special skills and techniques the best way possible for the artist, as well as putting into the artwork some sort of persoal commitment to not only honor the piece of art or art all together, but also the people, who you share the piece of art with. In addition, a true artist always has some kind of inner drive to create and is not able to exit without creating art. An artist will ALWAYS use what he has to create art, so if the artist is a painter, but has no paint, will try out other materials to come up with a way to create - may it be writing or drawing with metal screws on some kind of metal plate, or by trying to make paint out of the materials he has, or by making sculptures, or by making artistic cakes, or by dancing, etc. An artist has this inner drive to create, which he cannot live without. An artist is also always interested in trying out new materials and techniques, and pushes himself into new areas to come over the set of boundaries. Imitating others and copying other artists, is more or less a way to learn or master other techniques. An artist constantly has this inner urge to create and spill out emotions into being and so manifesting their authentic soul in a piece of art. This actually makes me wonder whether it's some kind of OCD to be an artist, because an artist needs to create and will do so, even if he doesn't sleep or eat, which is why artists have to be remnded to watch their own well-being. I also consider certain wood workers, art smiths, and other crafting skill driven craftmen or artisans as true artists. Even though they mainly create commisioned products, most of them have a personal workpiece on its side, which they work on in their spare time. Many artists do so actually. They very often have another job they do for their living, such as teaching their art skills to others or doing something completely different to earn the money needed. Now I know, that there are lots of people out there, who are selling what they make and are called artists just because they have a manager or a certain network. For instance hanging a naked screen or a screen showing a square in a gallery, does not make you an artist. It's a sort of misanthropic disrespect for others to do so. I also don't see an artist in somebody, who simply pours paints onto a screen and rubs on varnish when dry, and doing this over and over again, just because it sells. By doing this, such a person is more or less comparable with an assembly line worker.

[@leearcher3912]

Wendy you are a born writer. Sure there can be a lot to writing but when you can put words together so well and be that intriguing with what you are saying that would be considered a writer. And because of you i have been inspired to do my first art scrap book. Putting it together all by hand. So i'm pretty excited about it. Forcing myself to get into my art work more often only since covid started it made me so depressed i couldnt bring myself to do anything. Im way better now about it so i have several artistic projects im working on. Thanks for the lovely videos!

[@elainekiesel8103]

I think if you are creating art you are an artist. As with anything else if you earn your living from it you are a “professional” artist as it has become your “ profession”. For example athlete or professional athlete.

[@ismarimalan5735]

I see an artist as someone that does it as a 'job', for a living, that puts in the labour as a lawyer or teacher does in their profession. Having an 'artistic personality' is being a creative. A creative can be an artists, but an artist does not necessarily have to be a creative. Someone can have natural talent, yet not necessarily have the personality of creative, but put in the work to develop their talent and make a living of their talent and skill. Yet a creative can go their life without being an artist, because they think they don't have natural talent or they're not inspired. I can't help but note that some of the most memorable artist aren't the free-spirits people always think that artist are, but tend to be more structured and disciplined.

[@WordTrix1]

If you write, you’re a writer. If you create art, you’re an artist. If you sing, you’re a singer. If you run, you’re a runner. Whether you do it professionally or not, whether you make money at it or not.

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

yup! exactly!!! xxx

[@airizarry12]

I think you are a beautiful soul. Thank you for sharing your life, your art , your thoughts. God bless you.❤🙏

[@katievr9249]

I am a creatrix. I was always fine to call myself an artist. I sometimes just say I’m an artist/poet type. I use to paint every day and sell my paintings. Now I just paint once or twice a week, don’t sell them, but I still call myself an artist. We tend to be very spirited, creative beings. For me creating is a mystical and intuitive thing. I study the ancient practices of creativity. 🌿🙌🏻 Adore you Wendy, you are definitely a faerie that is earth born for awhile.

[@Gothikah]

Do you create stuff with your heart and soul? Congrats, you are an artist! That is just my opinion :)

[@The_artistic_yogi]

I think an artist is someone who creates something that is coming from the inside! Put out what's in... If that makes sense....

[@idratherbeshopping]

Really great food for thought. I loved this video and was inspired by it. I'm still not brave enough to call myself an artist. Sadly, I just say I "do" art. I am retired now and love art journaling most days but when I was a hairdresser I did art everyday with hair and color . I also love decorating and feel that is artistic as well. Maybe being an artist is just about joyfully creating.

[@debbielear972]

I love this quote by Stephen King, “Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work.” That’s my experience of making a creative living. I prefer to call myself a Creative, or a painter. Philosophers throughout history have grappled with the problem of defining Art - the most comfortable these days is Arthur Danto’s Institutional Theory. For me, the important thing is to keep making work. Whether it is Art or not is none of my business.

[@mariaiqbalart]

Beautifully said and lived 👏

[@debbielear972]

@@mariaiqbalart Thank you, Maria. The definition of Art is a slippery and circular argument. I’m not a fan of labels or boundaries. Why do we need to pin down what an Artist is? Just make the work you feel compelled to make and let others decide what label they want to put on it. We can affirm that we are Artists but it doesn’t alter the quality of the work. Saying I’m an Artist doesn’t mean I make good art.

[@Lacroix999]

My mother told me after I actually sold my first painting that I was actually able to then call myself “a professional artist”. That never really sat right with me and I know she was trying to boost my confidence, but it didn’t help much since I already felt like a ‘professional’ from making art for years on my own and mostly self taught. I don’t think learning from school is required to get you there either and you can just as easily be self taught and learn just as much, if not more on your own! I’ve learned far more out of art school than attending it. But back to my initial point, there as many artists who are ‘professionals’ who strive to master their art but have never actually sell their art. Van Gogh only sold one painting in his lifetime, look how famous he is now. I don’t think that copying someone’s art in a classroom setting, that that necessarily makes you an artist because anyone can copy someone else’s ideas which isn’t the same as being creative. And in order to be an artist, having that creativity must come with that at least a little bit. I think if the class is to draw one basic snowman, but you draw three dancing in the snow, that’s different than copying what the teacher did. This is kinda why the ‘Paint with Me’ classes that promise how you can be an artist kinda bother me when you see photos of all the ‘artists’ lined up smiling showing off their artwork but 9/10 of them all look identical, the odd one out only did theirs in a different color scheme to make it *slightly* stand out a bit more than the rest, but still looks the same. Anyone can put paint to a canvas, but it takes a bolder person to express themselves to stand out and I feel like that’s what we’re meant to do as artist/creatives! I used to think that declaring yourself an artist was the only requirement to being an artist. But you made a good point about if you’re still currently making art, so maybe it is if you art working at it to progress. It wouldn’t make sense to call yourself any other label if you no longer did that profession either. You can still be a creative person though without being an artist. There IS a difference there as you can have creative thoughts or see the world in a more creative way and not make art/be an artist. I honestly and personally don’t believe that everyone is a creative person. We may all have different gifts, but not everyone is necessarily creative, which is not the same. There are some people who don’t see the world like us creatives and see the world in more of a black and white manner and just can’t see it like we do no matter how hard they try. There’s nothing wrong with that, it’s just different as their brains function differently than ours do. Their gifts might be other things in which they thrive in doing that we don’t, like crunching numbers, being caregivers like a dr/vet or a lawyer/etc. those things, if they’re actually that person’s true passion, don’t necessarily require ‘creativity’ but may rely on other gifts that person does having instead, like being loving or really good at seeing logic in the world or the gift of gab. My husband for example is one of those people. He doesn’t have a single creative bone in his body. He does, however, have very strong communication and leadership skills. Some people are like that. Many can cook, but can’t garden because they don’t possess a green thumb. I burn water, but if creating art was as useful to feed my family, you’d never be able to get me out of the studio whipping up art 3x a day and we’d never starve because I’m creative person LOL! Unfortunately it doesn’t work that way and you can’t eat artwork….unless it’s food of course! But for someone who can’t cook, the two just don’t work well together. Not everyone has that creative gift. It’s not something you have push or squeeze out of you because it’s not something we do naturally possess. Having said that, I honestly do wonder if we were raised differently in a more natural environment and had our TRUE PASSIONS nurtured as we are all meant to be, if there weren’t more creative beings out there who did follow their passions more instead of being made to feel like we’re not good enough and had to question it. Many of us have this squished so early on that it does more damage than good and that’s sad! I feeling like if this weren’t a thing, many of us would be a lot happier and far less miserable doing things we hate just to get by especially creatives who are told that we need to “get a really job” because “art is dead” and we “will never amount to anything in life” because we “aren’t actually contributing to society like the rest of us who are working real jobs” since “art doesn’t do anything for us in the real world”! Which are actually all things that I have actually heard over the years. Having said that, honestly it doesn’t matter what ‘they’ have to say! We need to learn to stop doubting ourselves and just continue to do what we like despite what they have to say! ‘They’ are not paying our bills or living under our roofs so don’t allow them to take up space in your head either! In fact, one of my best art pieces was made because I got so upset at hearing one of these quotes from someone I used to know and instead of using that as a way to get mad, I used art as a way to heal from that process! So use it to your advantage because art also heals and it’s not always the end result that matters, but the process that helps you more along the way! It’s strange how people see artists in a different light and it’s one of the few professions/hobbies/crafts where it’s subjective. No one would say that a carpenter is a ‘fake’ job or question how legitimate their qualifications or experience is while doing their job even if they had less….legitimate ways of ‘earning’ their education. I think people don’t take artists/creatives seriously because it is really is a talent that makes all the difference. It’s not something we can just whip up and do like many skilled labors. We may all have creative moments, but it’s all different for us individually and many of us wouldn’t classify someone who has a gift of gardening with someone who has a gift of creating with more hands on tools/supplies and maybe that’s where some draw the line as being ‘creative’. If art is something you do, I don’t think it’s something that should be questioned or anyone’s business how much of an artist you ‘really’ are or are not. In fact if more people stopped judging artists as not being ‘good enough’, then maybe it wouldn’t be such a hard thing to try to define…as if there is some Art God out there who has set these arbitrary lines as to what’s classified as good/bad art or what’s good enough to call yourself an artist. It seems as though it’s the more non-artistic people feel like they have a say in what these rules are than those who live/breathe/do their crafts themselves. Maybe it’s not whether we’re “real artists” that’s important, but maybe how creative we are and actually express yourself that matters most. I hope all of that wasn’t too all over the place, just my thoughts on your thoughts!

[@lcarolc03]

Oh - HANDS are my nemesis. Lol. I keep trying. 💕

[@kerela9]

You just opened the door with absolute clarity. You are what you feel. To be able to express yourself. Not be defined by any borders and just to enjoy the process of what you create. You open the idea that so many people can reach their own level of creativity and not feel judged. Thank you. x

[@deborahjanellemixedmediaart]

WOW! I can’t put into words how much this video spoke to me. And it did so on so many different personal levels. I found you at the beginning of COVID. I eagerly watch your videos. So much wisdom, love and delight comes to me from your spirit. I begin a journey of a nomadic lifestyle in less than two weeks. Sold and given away everything but what is essential. I struggle with fear. I struggle with being “good enough” and so many of the things you touched on here. For me, I must stop looking in my personal rear view mirror and keep my eyes on the magic of exploring. My art has been in a dry spell. I love what you said about the white space between the paintings in a gallery. Our eyes, mind and hearts need that white space and I personally need to learn to rest in that space. You are more than an artist. You are a messenger! Lots of loves and hugs. The Artistic Nomad

[@barrybark3995]

its great that you are humble ,getting sacked as a hairdresser made me smile,did you shave the back of a ladies head?[dont answer lol]

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

hahahha!!! no but I did shower a man's crotch area once when I was training to shampoo!!!! A lot too!!!

[@Chuloon]

I was bullied in high-school, not so much from fellow students but from my art teacher.. taken me a long time to get over it, now in my mid 30s. I feel that I am starting all over again finally. Love your channel & how you encourage others with your craft!

[@njmiller6416]

Yes!! Everything you just shared is wonderful and spot on !! You have beautifully summed up all of the mind wanderings of what it is to be a creative soul ❤️ I have often had similar musings over the years on my creative journey.Thank You for taking the time to share your thoughts and your fairies. You make the world a more colorful place. My personal definition of an artist would go something like this A soul wandering through Earth School who has remained in touch with their authentic self through creative endeavors.

[@isabellepoynter5193]

I’ve been an artist off and on because of work or I had time but not motivated. Anyway I went to a local craft store and as I was browsing in the paint department, a lady asked me if I was an artist and how long I’ve been painting. I told her my story. What made my day and motivated me was this new artist asked me for painting advice. I told her I’m not perfect but I told her what I’ve learned. It made me feel so good!

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

ohhhh super duper!!! Love it!! xxxxxxxx

[@sherryliberto6749]

Well said Wendy! We are all artist. It's all in the way we express ourselves. I love painting and drawing, making journals. You know my husband asked me yesterday as I was watching a video " is this teaching you something?" I replied a new technique! He said ok that's just what I wanted to here. I hope all is well with you and yours. Have a super fantastic day and please tell James hello. Sending love and big hugs Sherry ✌️✌️

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Aww, Sherry, xxx and yes, all is well thank you xxxx I will certainly say hello to James from you! xxxx big hugs back to you !

[@donbar5493]

I have exhibited and sold. Life came along and went back to teaching . Health came along and I was sick. Depression came next and now I'm a bed blobber. I'm set up for art now I'm waiting for inspiration??? Come on my internal muse please wake up. Thank you Wendy 😘

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Go Donna, you totes got this!! Start and the inspiration will follow!! xxxx Good luck x

[@mistydawnoliver6717]

In America it seems like you are whatever you do to make a living. You can tell someone you're an artist or a writer, the first thing said back to you is what have you sold

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Blurghghhg!h!!! Totally frustrating.... 'my works are in progress currently and will be released once they are ready!' ???

[@mariaetheridge8343]

My definition of an artist: I make art therefore I'm an artist. And... I've been told that if 75% (I think) of your income derives from what you produce, you are a professional, i.e. it's your profession and you don't need a degree to qualify that. Deep thinking, Wendy!

[@sherelynwhite4130]

Thank you dear Wendy this was quite enjoyable and OMG I can't believe you brought up the quote from the movie The Tender Bar! I had not even ever heard of the movie and very coincidently was roaming through Prime video last night and decided to watch it! Anyway I agree 100% with what you say about what defines us as an artist or a creative being. I don't feel uncomfortable calling myself an artist even though it is not how I support myself. Like you I have felt like an artist most of my life being encouraged at a very young age to draw by my dear artist mother. I also agree...we need to be careful with labels! Well, it seems that everything you have shared is exactly how I feel, so there you have it...my two cents worth! Sending much love across the miles! Mwah!! 😘🥰And big hugs!🤗💚💖🌺💫

[@traceyjohns3490]

I often encounter people when I am doing stalls and the like who say they know a 'professional artist ' and will quote said name of the person. I'm sure they don't mean any harm by it but I often want to say well now you know another hahaha! Joking aside such comments make me feel like I some how have to justify myself. I'm learning (albeit slowly) not to let such interactions deligitimise my own artwork. It shouldn't really matter at all but my ego struggles with saying that's what I do for a living for fear of judgement. A side note if you ever want car insurance never say that you are a professional artist hahaha your insurance premium goes through the roof!

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

It's not really ok is it... shouldn't have to feel the need to justify yourself... 'I am an artist' bam all they need to know! They can keep judgements to themselves!!!!! Hahaha! Yes insurance, I do put artist but hey...!

[@naturecrafts8618]

Thank You for this positive and uplifting video 💕 big ❤️👍

[@Val1414_]

Great video. you've remind me of what someone once said❤️ "The mind is the man, the poor is in it and the rich is it too". This sentence is the secret of most successful investors. I once attended similar and ever since then i been waxing strong financially, and i most tell you the truth..

[@spreadbookjoy]

Fascinating, Wendy! My master’s research was all around identity and it is a powerful and essential human quality. We are multiple identities and our sense of who we are and who others perceive us to be is essential to our sense of well-being. I like the final thoughts on doing the work - we can’t be something unless we actually do the things associated with that identity! My research was around children becoming readers and that schools spend so much time focusing on the skills of reading and should equally spend time on clarifying what it means to be a reader and supporting children to identify as readers. It was a bit more complex than that of course but in a nutshell! 😂

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

“Artist” has nothing to do with money. It’s the act of doing it. Same as a runner is still a runner even if they don’t race. Or a gardener is still a gardener even if they don’t sell their roses.

[@malanim5837]

You sum up so much of my feelings at the moment not creating. I don’t feel so ‘alone’ anymore! 😂 x

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

You are def not alone in this, it's really challenging!!!!! A battle!!! We need to be creative warriors and smash the resistance down! xxxx WE totes got this!!

[@vickipadavic6643]

I wanted to go to art school. My parents said I had to do something I could make money at. i was a hairdresser for 30 years. I still made art every chance I had.Still do.

[@Our6Plus]

A hairdresser is also an artist, just using hair as their medium!

[@ElaCateDesigns]

Do you make art? Yes. You are an artist! Simple.

[@lilydelysvintagecraft7281]

I love your comment re "I'm a Creative Being" - brilliant! So true, we're all so naturally organically creative, we were all born to create, we've just forgotten. We've all been so over-trained (conditioned) to be intellect/reason & logical & this is what doubts, & fears our creative lives away; not our creative spirit, it never doubts, its just pure golden creativity ready to shine; its just blocked out by the fears from intellect/over-thinking. Intellect is so put up on a high and mighty pedestal and our poor subdued intuitive, feeling and creative selves are repressed in a locked dungeon - frail and weak. We're not bad at creating, we just don't get enough practice at it trying to keep our head above water to survive the greed world. People still put it down as "kids stuff", or you're not serious when you're being creative. Just look at you Wendy - pure creative soul, so inspirational - so flowing with creative spirit naturally - wonderfully uplifting - and I just recently came across... Iris Grace from the UK, the little Autistic girl creating the most beautiful paintings - magnificent stories - both of you!

[@cheerfulstrength940]

Thank You Wendy!! You are so right. I’ve been been working in the arts all my life as a costume designer, theatre technician, and administrator of non-profit arts organizations - making and facilitating art for other people, and with other people. Last year, at age 60, I began embracing my own inner artist. I am learning to give myself permission to make beautiful creations of my own design. This internal mental allowing has been a real struggle at times. Recognizing myself as “an artist” has been difficult. My most recent strategy has been to consciously remember to ENJOY the process, have FUN and PLAY with materials. I also invested in some new supplies that sparked a giddy creative excitement when I saw them. (Alcohol inks, embossing tools, stencils, watercolor powders, and gel plates.) I am also discovering that thinking about how my art can be sold, priced, marketed etc., is totally debilitating to the creative process. I am definitely making progress.😎 This has been inspired in part by you and your lovely videos! 💙🙏🏽💜

[@susanorban3059]

Dear Wendy thank you ever so much for always being such an encouragement to all of us! I'm a late bloomer in the water color world but I've always been an artist. I'm an artisan soap maker have have sold LOTS of beautiful soaps. But I've also done alot of embroidery and baking etc. I'm going to be 66 in July and wish with all my heart that I had known I've been an artist all my life! But that's ok. I wanted to share with you that I watch lots of painters on KZbin and after finishing your video here I went to my art room and sprayed my paints and FINALLY I quickly painted some tulips that I love! It all clicked in my brain just watching your video. I was trying to paint using too much paint pigment. I think I've got it now!! I'm so excited. Much love to you and to all commenters that are so encouraging! Susan from Arizona❤️🥰🌵

[@aimeelawrence-bespokefurni575]

You have really summed up everything I'm going through with my furniture art designs right now. The frustration of the resistance, fear of failing, fatigue, depression, ashamed. Feel like a failure because I can't seem to snap out of the depression. Can't seem to fight it.

[@bravehorizonstudio]

This is a great topic. I got my degree in art in 1992. I did not call myself an artist for many many years. I had to decide I was one and take on the title “artist” even though I was not producing or selling anything. I felt like a fraud. I would see others producing crappy art (…excuse me, art not to my taste…) and think why do they call themselves an artist and not me? I have a degree in this! I found that my talent is teaching kids art and teaching adults to teach kids art. Hum? Didn’t expect that. I hope (I know) I have raised a generation of young people in my community who see themselves as artist, no doubt in their mind. THERE IS ROOM FOR EVERYONE! Make the decision and move forward. 🧚‍♂️

[@LauraGomez-bl2so]

I think if you say you're a teacher or an accountant people just take you at your word. But if you say you're something creative it's different. If you say you're an artist some people seem to want you to prove you're a good one (in their opinion) before they'll let you claim it. If you say you're a comedian, they'll say make me laugh, then. People can be very judgemental about the creative arts!

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

so true!! which is why the comment in that film sparked me so much,,, we have to prove it to ourselves and others!! But, you know what others' can do with their judgements!!! xx Say no more!! xxx tee hee!

[@martelvonc]

99% of my completed art is donated to a non-profit as award certificates. I consider myself an artist even though I don't make any money at it. I think it means doing art regularly, working on improving my skills, and completing projects.

[@ronaackerman5403]

I call myself a crafter not an artist

[@christinefabian3552]

I think you’re a wonderful artist!!!🙂👍 you are quite inspirational and a very bright soul!!!! Thanks for sharing because I learn a whole lot from you and thoroughly enjoy you! 🙂 I have a son who is 15 and quite talented when it comes to drawing… he’s actually quite fabulous! I think he’d love your videos!!! Thanks for just being you!

[@DreamingCatStudio]

Great video! So many important lessons. I love all the quotes. My definition of an artist is someone who creates art. Just as a writer writes, a swimmer swims, and a builder builds. Where many of us get hung up is earning money as an artist. Many artists don’t tend to have strong business or marketing backgrounds. For 60 years I’ve been painting, writing, creating in all kinds of mediums, as well as playing piano and singing. I’ve given away most of my creations, and never tried to sell any. Now-for the first time-I’m taking formal drawing and painting classes, and it’s so interesting. It’s hard! But I’m learning so much! Between classes I amuse (speaking of the Muse) myself by playing with other things like creating envelopes from scrap and junk papers for the hand-written letters I’m planning to write. I’d like to figure out a way to sell my creations, and the program I’m in has a semester teaching those skills. One more thing: I’ve had a blast creating throughout the years. It’s different to then also want others to get value, joy and happiness from my creations. That completes the picture. That’s a goal for me. Thank you for an in-depth discussion. ☺️

[@melodymcdonnell1528]

I loved this! I always vacillate as to how to refer to myself. I have a B.A. in Art, but felt calling myself an "Artist" was kind of arrogant. After all, Rembrandt is an artist...not me. The term "Maker" seemed to come about, and I thought: Ah! That's it..."Maker"! Helena Bonham Carter has a quote that resonates with me to the point that I framed it and it hangs in my little L'Atelier. Even as a child if I was going to do it at all, I had to do it with flair, style and panache. (Words and concepts inherent from my father.) When the world seemed to go mad with everything "designer", I thought it was silly to pay a premium for someone else's name. I have a degree in art after all and can sew. (Which I always felt more of a "skill" than an "art form"...except my wedding gown which was "High Art"...@$500.00/yd I needed a couple of shots of Jameson Whiskey to actually make that first cut!) If I'm not creating something, I'm sort of difficult to be around...for me or anybody else. I decided last week to take the plunge and learn to draw faces; which I successfully avoided all through school on those self-portrait assignments by drawing myself from the back, sitting at a desk, chin in hand, pondering. (It always worked.) :0) So I feel pretty in-line with the list. Of course creating balance is ongoing...then there's that Proving it all to Myself Thing. :0l

[@paulawilliams9645]

Great video Wendy. What would our lives be like without creativity. The path of doing is a very powerful idea

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Oh thank you! I worked real hard on this one! I appreciate that! And soooo glad you enjoyed it! xxx

[@sandrafisherhayes3219]

New subscriber Wendy ❤ (yes I know I'm late, sorry about that, only stumbled on your channel recently). You raise a very important question in this vlog re: Am I an Artist? Or rather am I a 'real' artist? Personally I have always felt like an artist, even as a young child I have always loved drawing and painting. Being creative was always important for me not only as an individual but also for the sake of my mental health and wellbeing; if that makes sense? Especially during the pandemic! I was asked recently what my profession/occupation was...I replied 'I am an artist'...but when I mentioned this FACT, the person asked was I 'registered' (as an artist) when I replied no, she shot me down and retorted 'well then you're not a 'real artist'! It was difficult not to react tbh. However it has not deterred me from identifying with this FACT that I am indeed an artist ❤

[@katiehanrahan5293]

This was wonderful, and came just when I needed to hear it! I am an artist. I do not make my living at it and it took me years to allow myself to say I am an artist. But now, in my 70s, I am saying it, and meaning it. Thank you Wendy!

[@gentianvandewerken929]

I have an easy time seeing im an artist since I use what poets use to write a poem (the poetic mien )I call it working poetry /its a great tool for getting things done in a unusually creational way, I feel that when you make great art its quite obvious that your an artist/laying in my viking inspired Swedish cupboard bed that I designed with the creational painted walls and ceiling looking out the window past beautiful stone seats and gardens walls made of thousands of pounds of colored stones I gathered on wild beaches to no where /to a majestic trojan goat shaped hut/tiny house in a hay meadow that I carved couples and dragons on /not to mention the pictorial hand stitching art that I make and its unusual scrappy sacred quality, so every morning when I wake/you are an artist is every where that I am!

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Love this Gentian, thank you xxxxxxxx

[@overleaf9069]

We probably give far too much time and energy to worrying about what others think. Sure, put that energy into convincing ourselves but don’t waste it on some a-hole stranger who has big opinions about art while never having made any themselves. People are very judgmental about artists maybe because art is such a subjective discipline. Great synthesis and great vlog as always ❤️

[@SheilaLandry]

I have only recently called myself an 'artist', even though I have been making my living through designing and drawing for over 25 years. Pretty much my entire adult life. I kind of also feel pretentious labeling myself that way. Also calling my 'studio' just that. Although I don't know what else to call it. But as I have many creative and artistic friends, I really do feel that we are all "artists" and as you said in your post - everyone has some type of creativity. I think what we label ourselves with is generally tied to what we want to define us. Unlike you, I never had support from family members regarding my creativity. My mother used to ask when I was going to get a 'real job' when I was starting out making money at artwork and creating. I was a contributing editor for a creative magazine for nearly 20 years and had hundreds of my projects published, and my family still didn't feel that I had a job. The magazine was for small woodworking projects, but I also paint and draw and teach other through my patterns and websites. My partner of 13 years joined me over 10 years ago in developing our websites and learning to create patterns for others to use to create and it has been supporting both of us (modestly, but that is how we live) for that long and we are still growing. But even with that, it was only in the last year or so that I began to feel comfortable calling myself an artist. And that is because since lockdowns and COVID, I have tried to take care of myself more and have created for myself more than for 'work'. I FEEL more like an artist when creating for myself. (Sorry this is so long.) Thanks you for your inspirational videos. I only recently found you. I enjoy coffee with you and your thoughtful posts.

[@michemman]

Descartes; "I am what I am". An artiste' A writer. A teacher. A motivator. An illustrator. A Montessorian. An observer, and a collector of colours..... :) In kindred spirit, Eliza Sydney, Australia Monday 30th of May, 2022; 5:24pm, bed office, after a tough, but happier day. xx

[@dorries9540]

Hi Wendy, hope this message finds you well. I believe if you see the beauty in all that's around you.... this makes you an artist. So blessed be

[@aquacommelina]

I am an artist. For a season of time, I sold my art in galleries and winery. I also sold in stores, and did commission work. I am a different season now, a new season of discovery. I have been training myself in different mediums, learning more by watching other artists. Your inspiring words have encouraged me greatly. Soon my season will change again and eventually I will be ready to sell my art again, and maybe teach if I feel up to it. I am dreaming of a new art studio in a new home. Life is exciting... "You dip your paintbrush in your coffee."..😁Haaaa!!! So many times I have done that... I also put my brushes in my mouth to fix the tips. Sometimes I don't realize the brush still has paint on it. In the motion of creativity, my face becomes covered in paint. It's a good giggle for my husband. I am a human canvas.