Knowing this will make starting easy

[@ricardoabarza2030]

My best regards…That is real true. I have studied at art school but for many ways ended working many years as a graphic designer. I retired at 63 and told to my self that the only I want to do is art, this is my freedom, my personal work where I am the boss, the worker and the client. I am working to my self, for developing what I am and what I believe is value for the rest of my life. I dont care about the rest because is the act of doing it, the creative process what give me the satisfaction of doing it and I belive it is gonna give me the rest.

[@lesliethejourneyismyhome3224]

What a terrific commentary, how kind and supportive!

[@valeriateran1377]

I feel you're an incredible human being, artist and teacher. there is so much power in your sensitivity. And that power is reflected on your artwork. I admire you so much, thanks for sharing your knowledge and experiences!

[@edwardvaughan3508]

Thank you Nicholas! I have been at home 3 weeks now recovering from total hip replacement surgery. I was an abstract painter in a previous life and now approaching 62, I have been thinking a lot about it. I came across your INSPIRATIONAL videos and I can't thank you enough for getting me out of the rut of lying around thinking about painting to actually painting most of today and I actually started 7 new works. I love your style and your enthusiasm for the rest of us.

[@b.bailey8244]

there are art angels, and you are my favorite one! thanks for the hope and uplift, and answers to the self sabotage - it's in the doing and making a practice of it. But you don't just stop there. You actually share your process and what works and why - a practice of radical generosity and love because you live these principles in all of your life. PS - I love it how the co-director in that gallery SAW the greatness in your work and bought the horse!

[@barbarabreidenbach3717]

Thank you, these are important thoughts for me, I started end of last year, I'm 59 years old now and I never thought, I would paint and now it makes me so happy to try out with colours and different materials - abstract paintings - little flower postcards - or just playing around with colours ... it clears my mind and new ideas are on the way - may be my english is not perfect, best wishes, Barbara from Germany

[@HHSFI2]

Hi Barbara, I’m 61 and feel exactly the same way. It’s soul nourishing.

[@PatriseHenkel]

“Why Bother?” is my name for my depression. This devil whispers in my ear all the time, and it’s been tough learning to hear it and reject that advice! I love this, I feel so reassured, Nic!! I just bought a house so I can paint freely.

[@deborahhoch2662]

😃👏👏👏👏!

[@judyfleming310]

Thanks for sharing!/participating!

[@b.bailey8244]

when i'm working and in process and dialogue with whatever I'm working on is the only break I ever get from that insidious devil, who is quiet for once - so it must be happy too when I paint. or make anything - a poem, a quilt, etc. All of that was because I HAD to express and was so afraid of painting again. I am going to face the painting and get over this. It's been too many decades of torture!

[@margaretowuadey]

So powerful @Art2Life. My favourite line is, "Making art is what makes it possible to make art." Wow. We must keep pushing on. Thank you for your great videos that are very contemplative.

[@gtberg]

This is spot on. Having those inner demons who tear your work apart and tell you "you suck" is with me every day. I have to say to myself: "I don't care that there are a million artists who are better than me, and I don't care what the critics say about my work. I'm making this for me, and no one else. As long as I'm happy, that's all that counts. This is the same for musicians who suffer stage fright. Once you allow yourself to make mistakes and to be a lesser artist, it takes all the pressure off. Once you stop caring about what other people think, then you can experience real growth.

[@cherylaotearoa]

Thx Nick, your so helpful...starting off..one brm apartment...open down oven door for easel!.......space isn't an excuse! works great!! (73 years old)

[@TooMuch2024]

So true and it really does take many years to understand that from making art comes art. Thank you again.

[@Art2Life]

You're very welcome

[@Davidiona]

I admire the truthful generosity of this clearly loving artist.

[@raerae6422]

Every time you recount an event in your life, im spellbound. Such a vivid storyteller.

[@sallysims5090]

Yes, making art teaches you how to make art. So true. Thanks for all the messages you scatter along the path.

[@monstera677]

Wonderful reminder on why we make art. One way I keep going is keeping in touch with a group of fellow art students and we have a regular virtual get together where we show each other our works in progress and critique each other's work. We all work in our own styles, take different classes, show works in completely different stages. It's fun, non-judgmental, and non-competitive. It has been motivating and keeping me in a regular painting practice so far.

[@aminavierk3610]

You’re so fortunate to find this group. Wish we had something like that.

[@HHSFI2]

That’s wonderful!!!

[@HHSFI2]

@@aminavierk3610 very fortunate! Makes me want to start one.

[@thisismystory1802]

Oh my goodness, yes! This is a powerful truth that can be applied to every area of our lives. It is in the process of creating that questions are answered and sometimes, questions also fade away and healing takes place. I love this text "...be made strong even in your weakness...for as you keep walking forward..all your stumbling ways will be divinely healed." Thanks for another great video, Nicholas!

[@paintingzoneart4026]

Such a sweet story, about the horse! Thanks for sharing from vulnerability Nick

[@Happy2bwoman906]

I'm going to save this one. Yes yes yes. I've done cvp three times and each time - even without knowing it clearly - i got closer and closer to my self. I've been painting all my adult life. You continue to be such an inspiration for me as is the community that has come together because of the truth at the heart of what you teach and share as an art making life making process. Big smile. And thanks!

[@juliebabb3365]

I do ask myself "why bother" but now i am learning the answer. It is thrilling & creates joy in all areas of my life. I must create MY art.

[@anitajulaniya1959]

Thank you so much. “ It is only the internal things, we can control”. It will keep us going.

[@samanthasmith4617]

I'm 53 been a crafter all my life sewing ,knitting, carving wood you name it, I've just started abstract art and it's much harder than I thought but I'm enjoying just experimenting. Thank you for your wise words. Thank you.u.k.

[@lizfontenot1424]

Thank you for this. Nothing gets in the way of me creating art today. The money, not the ideas. Not the confidence all I do all day is create. I create what I feel like creating. It doesn’t have to be good enough for anyone else because I’m not creating for anyone else but me. Because it’s fun, fun, fun and it takes me out of my own head. good enough? For me I am today but I know tomorrow I’ll be better.

[@bearbait7405]

The very act of applying brushstrokes and marks to a panel or a canvas validate my effort and practice.

[@miguelsuarez8010]

I have been making art since I was 5 years old. I'm 67 now and still can't comprehend why I have been rejected everywhere. I never stopped making art.

[@juliebernier312]

This video is such a GIFT to artists. What you are offering here is such a vital truth about making art. As a therapist-turned-artist, I embody my art making as the most authentic expression of who I am. And making art is, for me, a deep dive into the unknown, which is incredibly exciting each and every time I stand in that space. That’s not to say it isn’t scary and daunting. It surely is. But I just keep making art and those things fall away. Putting no conditions on my art has been key. No expectations, no qualitative or quantitative expectations...just being in my space and working with the materials, that’s all that’s required. Just showing up. Just being willing. Making art is the love of my life, my most important relationship, my way of encountering all that I am. It’s a practice. I leave all the head games and the expectations and the what-ifs outside the door and I cross the threshold into something wild and beautiful. I just found you and your channel this morning. THANK YOU for sharing your light.

[@judyfleming310]

Julie, thanks for sharing. I just received to inspirational talks by watching and reading this site.

[@karlabritfeld7104]

I've been making art for years. Mostly nobody else wants it but I make art for myself. I love it.

[@sjommillera2109]

This makes me feel so much better about painting almost everyday and wondering why. Because I love to do it! Thanks for your insight!!

[@ArtHealsTheSoul]

Yes just start and stay own your path no matter what anyone else thinks or says to you !! It’s your life your passion your path you only get one chance on this !!

[@judyfleming310]

Nicholas I have never heard that spoken. But I've got to say that I have witnessed it while playing with and thinking of my art. You have my following.

[@michelledolly3789]

Yes Iove this, this was the most freeing reality of finally starting my art recently with Louise's Find Your Joy. Thank You for the reminder !

[@adbarrett5498]

Every single word you say in this video speaks to me! I did not go to art school but have always loved and played around with art - all types, all mediums. But I always give up for one or more of the reasons you mention in this video! I am now inspired to give it another go. Thank you!

[@daveanderson8776]

Such a good word Nicolas ! Those are surely are times we never forget but do help us to acquire thicker artist skins .ouch !!!!!! Thanks for sharing, Dave Anderson , Happy Valley Oregon

[@sachet22]

It felt like you were speaking just to me! I needed to hear every work Nick! Food for my soul…THANK YOU.

[@AngelDebstar316]

I love that, it makes so much sense & takes the anxiety out of and stops us from putting obstacles up in the first place xxxx

[@detlefgotzens5014]

Exactly true, one can not pay attention too much to what happens outside of your own mind, you are in control, it is also a process to building integrity to your own work and that takes time and is also a learning curve that never ends.

[@wychaz]

It is true. "Do the work!" ~ Steven Pressfield.

[@CasparisHelena]

Having a reply from Steven Pressfield, the American Author, is so touching as inspiring. I will do my best to deserve that one day, in the future.

[@mikayounce5]

The space I go to when I’m making art is so freeing. This freedom is what keeps me making art. Thank you for your inspiration and direction!

[@kathrynstrietmann6056]

This is all pure gold… I’ve felt those don’t give a shit feelings before…still hoping I CAN eventually sell SOMETHING.

[@phillipturner7194]

Nick, this is really encouraging and inspirational. I agree with and have thought about everything you said but it's so great to have that reinforced. The act of painting, going into that "other world", is where the art really is for me. The final results are important, but the entry into the actual physical and mental engagement of creating is profound and in many ways spiritual.

[@janswimwild]

Such wonderful advice, be creative for the sake of creating, and something will flow from it, even if not something we anticipated. Thank you, such a lovely reminder 😊

[@mphcoach]

Thanks Nicholas. This is so helpful. I've barely picked up a brush so far and feeling a little daunted by everyone else already out there.

[@cynthiakramer1012]

thank you for your encouragement. I appreciate knowing more of your story and how you approach encouragement..training...professionalism in making art a practice...not just a business. AND that you acknowledge that there is a business side. Gosh, I'm not good at that part...thanks for the kind space.

[@SuperUsernameization]

I could hug you for this! Much needed words. Plus, now I have to go get a black t-shirt.

[@williamschuhmacher3468]

I have painted for more than 55 years. A big lesson I learned was the difference between approval and validation. Seeking approval a high school art teacher so trashed my work I actually went home and went to bed. What can I say: there are assholes who will kill you artistically. That's part of the profession.

[@karanskij2337]

That's what I needed to hear today. Thank you!

[@Art2Life]

You are so welcome!

[@DebRowley]

Thank you for being such a generous person.

[@lizhymans7720]

I make art for the joy and that is the only reason I do it. We don't have to monetize everything in life.

[@joancollier4488]

It was so good to hear this and it gives support to my searching mind. It is so true....It's not possible move on anywhere without doing the actual work. Out of both successes and mistakes comes enlightenment.

[@robofurious]

You know what is crazy is that I paint way more now than I ever did when I was studying painting at university 20+ years ago! Now I’m old and have a day job and a family but somehow I make the time to do some sort of painting pretty much every other day.

[@jacksonstudio42]

Fantastic!! I teach adults art - loved hearing your story and will share with everyone, thanks so much!

[@patfros5902]

Thank you so much, this is really powerful!

[@Art2Life]

So glad!

[@fx711-h1c]

the horse painting is amazing-- one of your best of all time.

[@virginiahaber1202]

"the answer is doing" this is my new mantra!

[@craigduddles5650]

Great and encouraging thoughts. Thanks so much.

[@millymollymandyism]

Thanks Nicholas, that advice is so true!

[@stephaniebutterfield7246]

Space is an issue not just for making things but for storing things

[@sitabudhyarto2516]

Wow 😳 🧃🍒 😊 you nailed it Nick .. thank you for telling us to stop busy making all kinds of excuses. And to Just Start Making Art. 👍 #staysafe #stayhealthy greeting from Indonesia 🙏🇮🇩

[@phyllisgoodrich2769]

Brilliant...so simple it totally eluded me! Thank you so much!

[@Art2Life]

Glad it helped!

[@daledanby6831]

The boost I have been needing for a long time. Thank you so much

[@gayedavies2797]

Such a truism. I procrastinate with the ‘no space’ obstacle. However, I got into an Art 🖼 diploma that will be taught via Zoom with my web portfolio and lockdown drawings, I will paint and draw in a serious group to take me to the next level. Through teaching children Art over the last 6 years, I have built on my confidence and skills to become a practising artist. I want to sell work as I ave in the past. People buy the pieces I actually didn’t rate at all. I have put myself out there and it was fun, even if exposing. Do it!

[@awakenedheartroom]

I love that painting with the red horse !

[@tewaibrown70]

Thank you for sharing...

[@cynthiathomas262]

thanks for your insight!

[@barbarageis1728]

Thank you for sharing. When I paint I am in such a flow the most time. These times are great!

[@lyndaroberts9509]

You are keeping me going.Thank you.

[@sabrinanascimento1267]

I just do it. Can’t control people only your own thoughts.

[@indushah9545]

always wonderful advise from you! you do some wonderful work --keep inspiring us!

[@Art2Life]

Thank you! Will do!

[@sandraedwards2682]

Thanks so much for your support

[@Someoneoutthere67]

Thank you so much for this video.

[@MB-hs6lq]

It’s a very powerful idea and very powerful story - your energy and voice made me cry.. of course in a good and serene way 💕

[@trumpetingangel]

Thank you!

[@colorsbyasiyabajwa6537]

Thank you so much!

[@riverrat7356]

The first question I ever had to ask myself when I was pondering a career in art was why do people do art? After that question came the plethora of Why’s- WHY do I do Art ?. Why am I attracted to do art ? Why a career in art instead of a hobby? In response to your (always interesting)video, “Why do art at all if you’re not selling it? “ is simple to answer for me. If that was meant as a rhetorical question, my answer is personally that I don’t have a choice! I’m compelled to do do art . I Have To create . It’s as necessary as breathing. And it doesn’t have to be painting . But art. Art to me is creation . It’s the creation or expression of a person’s active flow of thoughts into a tangible form . Human beings are born to create. If we are truly made in Gods image , in its most basic analogy is that not a creator?

[@karylmorton5385]

I painted today. I had apifinie today..I need bigger place. I am goingbto apply for art grant and get the other area artist to do the same and have a shared center. I had plastic sticking to Mr feet. The sun was shinning in the window and obstructing my vission. I left the front door open and sprayed the overlay how knows what I sprayed inside. Art is a freedom but if not something has to give. I have to move on. Not change the artist but change the landscape so I can be at peace. Can you show us your portfolio. A lady gave me a case. I'm anxious to do that until I get to a space. Canvas ? Art paper or what. I'm seeing art paper and I do have several sketches I can complete if it is proper. Have a good day. Thanks for sharing your feelings. It is refreshing. To know we are not alone. Sanity in our madness is awsome. Lol!

[@sidneygage]

The only imposter is that voice trying to make you believe negative things about yourself and your art. 💪💯❤️‍🔥🙏

[@kathleenkaleookalanismith8724]

What a cool story you started off with!!!!

[@theresajones6088]

So good to hear, love your words, they make so much sense... love your art also...

[@lynn111l]

Wow great encouragement!!! Thank you!!!

[@susanyesnotwhy]

Thank you, you are so giving..

[@lisengel2498]

Thank you for sharing - and its so true the making process is just a special place -reason enough to go there every day discovering your own art - And by the way I also like your painting with the red horse running. - and all the beautifull abstract paintings behind you when you tell your experiences of your experiences

[@ireneynes7478]

Thank you. So many vise words 😍

[@ezekielash842]

Thanks Will. God you're hot & smart, & your work - I cld happily die learning how to move with it. Anyway, I think you get at a fundamental thing about painting-The production of language is beside the point because it's not intracompositional-it's not what the paint & materials & body use to make it. Guston & Richter both speak about the futility of trying to describe what a painting is or what it says. Your circular phrase , the making of it is the answer to these questions, speaks to the mortal intensity of any practice: you do it so you can live & survive. Thanks as always.

[@marcelaolivares3320]

thank you!!!

[@chansen0531]

That’s why I call my work experiments. Takes the pressure off trying to create something that others will approve and validate me. Ego.

[@cynthiakramer1012]

experiments....I like that.

[@nancysalta5976]

I needed to hear this! Thank you!

[@Olhamo]

yea, I have had my eyes opened that way since the free art2life workshop series.

[@suzannedesylva3805]

Gorgeous talk.

[@suzanneherbruck2274]

I'd really like to see the Red Horse painting. Thanks for doing this, I'm in the bowl of oatmeal quandary at the moment...

[@Art2Life]

It was in the video :)

[@artofvchannel9430]

that is very true dear friend thank uou very much

[@Olhamo]

May we know how much you asked for that red horse? and the year, since you say you were starting out. context... What a trip, to go from this trembling dejection, to someone in the same gallery buying your work! This is like angelic intervention. Were you instantly able to turn on a dime, and put a figure on it, that you felt good about asking? We need to know the rest of that story.... love your sharing this vulnerability. please. 🌞 i love this: it’s making the art that lets you make the art... so true. You really saved my life in February. It sure felt that way. You share so much good. I hope one day to see you some beautiful place, somewhere, for a workshop.. I feel I could really be served these days by someone buying my art! ... But you are right... Just keep doing it. I have all my paints and stuff in one corner of my newly rented room in a shared house... I have been spackling the walls. Going to paint this room, ( to leave it better than I found it) and then, or maybe before, get back to my painting. My goal is to do it every day, now, as my real work, along with writing and studying... it has always seemed to be something the world impinged upon, and said, this is not real work... But this group, Art2life and KTAP have all kept me coming back to my inner compass in a really difficult time... So much thanks for that... so Grateful!

[@suzannedesylva3805]

Brilliant

[@teresaglasgow4442]

So for some of us poor artist. Would you ever consider doing some affordable mini like 10 minute consultations?

[@trinesandns4947]

Thank again. I use all these excuses....By the way, I like the piece behind you in the video!

[@lindasamuels792]

More importantly, when are you offering a) the free week course and b) the full course. Very interested :)

[@marie-christinescutt7888]

great teacher

[@deelynn8611]

Can I ask you how much she bought that first painting for? I have posted to you before, and I hope you will please answer this if possible? Thank you...

[@sabrinanascimento1267]

I am not Picasso or Dali. That takes the load off.

[@lindasamuels792]

Hey! Just started watching and wanted to know what brand of brush are you holding? I have similar ones I use for furniture painting, and thought maybe I could use them for canvas art, but I would undoubtedly wreck them lol :)

[@randirosanikolajsen6372]

Thank you for this😍 I have tried to sign up for the next free course, but I did not get a confirmation e-mail.... PS. Is it because I am not on Facebook?

[@sabrinanascimento1267]

I only showed my Paintings to my parents . It gets better. I want to my art to my Twin. He has his channel here on You Tube.

[@Mariana-iy5fc]

❤❤❤

[@diotimaz]

Teriffic video!