What to do when it's hard to make your art

[@lauramarycann9590]

Well said totally agree . We need to discuss art and share ideas , that's what makes us excited and important.

[@hollandhammond2667]

Nick, your tender vulnerability is a gift to us all.

[@sallytaylor3958]

First, I hope whatever is happening for you dissolves quickly so that more love and light can shine through you and your life. Second, I'm chuckling inside because just a few hours ago I fully realized the same truth. Taking the Bread Crumbs Challenge and now being in SPARK are the greatest gifts I've ever given myself. I was paralyzed on every level and could not see the light at the end of that tunnel. Art really saved me. You who inspired me to take a step forward. This works! So much love and appreciation for you, Nick.

[@kathekokolias9569]

I hope you realize how much you are loved & appreciated. You make this world an amazing place just being in it. All the best!

[@rainazichterman2537]

My heart goes out to you Nick. Thank you for being a shining light to a bunch of us.

[@cathymckennitt8893]

Thank you Nick for sharing this. You are always inspiring.

[@cindypeters6000]

thank you so much - "making art is the practice of becoming the best version of yourself" I am struggling and feeling like a failure....so this was what I needed to hear today!!!

[@PatriseHenkel]

the way you share your human journey is a great gift to us. I remember in our interview last month I was surprised that you wanted to hear about my struggles, and after realized of course, those are the transformational moments when we are in the creative forge. so much love to you

[@courtneymayoshow]

"making art is the practice of becoming yourself".... beautifully said.

[@heather-nq1sl]

Thank you for your honesty Nick. We usually only see engineered ‘perfection’ on social media. I’m sorry that you’ve had a tough week and I hope things get better for you very soon. I can identify so much with what you said. When my art practice ebbed away, post trauma, a big part of me died. Try as I might, I just can’t get back into any kind of flow, it always ends with ‘what’s the point?/ this is crap’ before it really begins. You are so inspirational and generous. Even when you’ve had a horrible time, you share nuggets of wisdom like, “Making art is the practice of becoming the best version of yourself”. Depressed and pained as I am, having given up on my self, deep inside I know this to be true. Thank you for reminding us. I wish you an ease of returning to your essential being, no longer fraught and upset but gliding in your flow with sheer abandonment and joy. With love. ♥️

[@katrinakillian444]

This made me tear up Nick. You are a gift. Thank you 💚

[@fcruz2012]

Sending you lots of good vibes. 💕💕💕

[@ingridbell3220]

I could just listen to you talk all day. In fact I do. The sound of your voice and the encouragment keeps me going to the studio. That is a great gift to me and I imagine all the others who are signed up to the Sparks course and subscribe to Art 2Life. Yes we all get stuck and low and unmotivated and to follow your own advice of being kind to yourself. You may just need a break.

[@robofurious]

after watching and listening to you, Louis Fletcher, and Pamela Caughey over the last few months, I've been incredibly inspired by your work and words. Thank you

[@Sheila.F]

Wow I follow and learn from these Artists...They all are so generous and authentic

[@mixedmedialife7916]

Same artists for me and I would add Betty Franks (Betty Franks Krause 'til recently), also a very generous sharer (is that a word?!).

[@peggybogardus9340]

You are ever-inspiring, Nick. Thank you for being real. 💓

[@denisewhitaker5116]

Yes, we all relate! We are only human and connected in our feelings. It helps me to remember that our moods and situations do pass. Bless your heart🙃

[@merylbovard7454]

Needed this today. Thank you so much, Nick!

[@debbiegarland7124]

Sorry to hear you’ve had a shit week. Love the pieces behind you. Happy creating. 🖌🖍✏️

[@dianagilbert8690]

I feel better hearing this message today. Thank you. It's been weeks since I've had studio-time...between work, travel and family.... I'm almost afraid to start again. I'm doubting my ability to make artwork. I know, just like you dear Nick, showing up is the trick 👌. Thank you.

[@robinbrewer9000]

Creativity is contagious! Pass it on! Einstein

[@laurenforbes704]

Thank you for sharing this. I hope that things improve for you soon. Your comments resonate with me so much. I signed up for the Spark program for just that reason- I have been stuck and having an rough time making art for a while and you are helping me to move forward so THANK YOU!!

[@dawnlittlepage189]

Wonderful. Thank you

[@anne-mariez7596]

Thanks a lot ! A life time wondering why it was so important to me to make art : it becomes obvious when you simply tell us. Thanks again

[@yokemelissant9098]

Your vulnerability touches me very much. I surely recognise what you are saying. I am struggling at the moment and your words gave me the courage to start again. Thank you so much

[@SingYourselfWell]

I find exactly that, Nick. I trick myself for situations when I don't want to go to my studio. I have a few pots of paint and a plastic covered table always set up, right here near my desk in my home. No excuses to just sit down and doodle around. It also helps to just start with a color that I find yummy. Like eating something yummy. 💖

[@GLPvillainess]

You are absolutely right. A few years ago I was going through some really rough stuff. At some point I just had to get away, so I sat down to work, with no plan, and just started. I locked myself away, put on some music, and just got into that right brain mode and used it as an escape. Those couple of months ended up being my most productive time, creation-wise. Creating is still my go-to for stressful times. I absolutely love your videos. I find myself nodding and agreeing and feeling validated as a creator, but also, your insights have given me ideas (especially during Breadcrumbs) from things I am remembering from my artistic past. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! I'm sailing now.

[@maryebajcz]

Thank you for all your encouragement.

[@monicalonghini]

Right words in the right moment 🙌 really motivating!! Thanks so much Nicholas 🙏

[@amandachapman4708]

I so agree. ALL my art is self-care - that is its purpose. If I'm not feeling like making art, like you said, I go to my art room and do something - even if it's just tidying up or sorting through my materials.

[@robinbrewer9000]

art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. Thomas Merton

[@marilynburke7609]

You are always right on the mark. When I get in a bad place I just get a blank canvas and start something new. I’m usually surprised at what evolves. I don’t want to work on a piece that’s already in the works because it’s difficult to make sound decisions. Something new helps get out the frustration. Take care Nick.🙃❤️

[@scarletimp9496]

Thank you for sharing and putting into words something that I so often try and articulate to the people around me...I don't think they understand in the same way other creative people do. That link between who you are and the art you make is very defining and one feeds the other and vice versa. When life's difficulties and issues get in the way and take you further away from that relationship or...conversation you are having with what you're creating, for me, it's beyond frustrating to the point of tears. I think I need to share this video with everyone I live with, maybe it will help them understand a bit better!

[@sumacstudio]

Thank you. Currently in the Spark program and I can’t believe how much my mindset has changed, abt everything….my art, my day, my life. I’m not sure what’s happening, but it’s good! Your honesty and candid way you share your obstacles is really kind and helpful.

[@irenecarmenwilkes746]

You have so inspired me with this video clip! And for so many years!

[@leonormartinez6378]

I’m fairly new to your channel and have watched a lot of your videos. You are very unique in that you expose yourself to strangers and express yourself with such vulnerability while teaching art techniques. It’s very refreshing. Thank you.

[@mistypaulla]

You are an inspiring person, love the vulnerability😊 thank you ❤️

[@shawn5632]

So beautifully articulated...needed to hear this, thank you.

[@nancycloonan4646]

I love that you put your apron on! It’s a nice indicator for you, and then you’re ready, right?!! Haha!! Thanks for sharing this helpful video!! I am loving the paintings behind you!!! You’re great ☺️

[@Rock_Bill_Kaa]

I needed this at this time. Thanks.

[@ruthgonzalez1991]

I can relate but it’s a good reminder. Thanks.

[@ZenDenAdventures]

We got you and you got this. Sending you lots of good vibes. ❤️

[@63artemisia63]

Yep, several dense, dull days in a row. I usually derive enormous creative energy from the Autumn/Halloween season but Autumn is much later than usual this year in hot, humid Alabama. Normally, I create that energy, even in stifling weather, by reading ghost stories and supernatural fiction, enjoying my collection of old black and white photos of costumed kids, working on Halloween collages. And I have been doing all that. That has worked until three days ago, when the wind just stopped. The wind is created by/creates energy ... We can forget what a profound influence the elements have ... Right now, I feel myself doing way too much thinking. Gotta go work!

[@fen8992]

Hope you get your mojo back soon Nic. Go for a run somewhere new maybe? & remember the many people, who's lives you have touched & brightened, are rooting for you. 👍

[@celinacosta3072]

I’m very familiar with your feelings I have a very critical ill son and the only place that I can feel calm is in my studio when I have the time to paint .

[@coraannetoledo-merritt1220]

Hej Nicholas I hope whatever it is ? You will soon come through. I am sure of it. - maybe you will be able to get a new gush of ideas.