Making the Cut

By midday in Santa Fe, things as nuisances, and some more serious, had already invaded my time and energy.

My haircut was long overdue. My cutter told me she’d be with other clients for at least an hour. I’d come back.

As I now had some time, I thought I’d try Java Joe’s, which was in the huge shopping center. Could they make a cappuccino the way I like it? The steamed milk must settle so it is creamy, not full of foam-like bubbles. This simple instruction eludes many a barista.

As I was entering the cafe, two men were leaving. One man turned to the other: “I can’t believe it—it’s been one thing after another. These problems are getting me down.”

There it was again. Another reminder to see beyond my own limited drama, to perceive events through awareness, not fearful ego.

Recall my object lesson: instead of being disappointed, say that’s revealing and lift yourself beyond the fray. When the problem seems overwhelming, remember that the problem is the teacher. The lesson is there; it is up to you to grasp it, as it is in the Zen tradition of learning.

With these perceptions you will triumph with gratitude, leaving any notion of victimhood in the dreary dust.

Java Joe’s passed the steamed milk test.

Waiting for Rorschach

This observation is relevant for both the artist and the art appreciator.

The artist may ask: What is the inherent value of my art?

The art appreciator may ask: Is this art or not?

But, what do these questions mean? How can you appreciate the end product without comprehending its creation?

How did that apple, chair, face, doggie, name your object, get onto the canvas? From what source did that abstract painting reveal itself? Was it a product of conceptualization and planning, or alchemy?

The answers to these questions unveil all—that is, if you have the fortitude to find the elusive curtain and see what’s behind it.

Beach Villa

From An Artist Empowered:

Nothing—except you—can prevent you from living an authentic life.

If your desire to create is fueled on less than a fire in the belly, then fully realize your situation: to be self-aware is the goal.

To live your dream, you must wake up and remain awake. The artist’s life isn’t for everyone. You must decide if this observation is relevant for your situation. To maneuver the rugged terrain while avoiding the pitfalls as one ascends the mountain is a required skill that comes with its share of bruises.

After all, you wouldn’t plan on climbing Mount Everest without training, the proper equipment, a seasoned guide, and a party of fellow mountaineers who shared your vision. The quest for art demands no less . . .

The next time you are fortunate enough to catch yourself grumbling about your art life—stop thinking. Grab hold of this moment of disenchantment; it is an opportunity to feel the truth of your fears, doubts, motivations, and the value of your art. Step up and confront your complaints and self-inflicted woes; if you want depth, you must dig deep.

Use disappointment, including rejection to affirm your purpose and to develop your strength of character; this is the object lesson.

Feeling the Notes

The other day I heard a poet on the radio. She was getting airtime because she had received the greatest number or tweets that casted votes in her favor.

At one point, she said that all the tweets affirmed her poetry and her decision to become a poet. Her statement might sound reasonable.

But let’s back up.

What if she hadn’t won the popularity vote? What then, neighbor? Would that make her poetry or her decision to be a poet any less valid?

It’s no vice to enjoy the admiration of others. But to gauge your art worthiness, your dharma, by a show of hands is a tragic misstep—one way or the other.

You are on sacred ground when you know where you stand.

Holidaze

Most of us have some idea when it comes to appreciating a standard of living. We easily get use to the amenities that make life more bearable in a savage world where Mama Nature can be housebroken but never tamed.

When it comes to fine art, there is an implied understanding that it conforms to a standard, which is often debated, and hotly so.

The question for you the artist and you the art collector is this: Can you explain the standard of fine art and prove such a conclusion to your own satisfaction? If you can’t, then others will make this conclusion for you.

You are on sacred ground when you know where you stand.