I’ve just added a couple more abstract photography images to my portfolio. I was going to add a few more, but then questions formed in my mind.
I create abstract photography and yet draw and paint with a very high degree of realism – photorealism in many cases. What on earth does that say about me as an artist? Or as a person for that matter? Am I just striving for balance in expressing my creativity (being a Libran thats quite possible), or am I just plain weird (quite possible as well)?
To be successful as an artist (painter or photographer), those in the know claim that you must specialise, find a niche and develop it.
I read a quote today that has resonated with me all day – “Art is not in the eye of the beholder, Art is in the heart of the artist”. Can’t remember who said it though.
So.
I guess I shall continue to follow my heart, because to do otherwise would be like denying part of me. LOL – maybe I will be a trailblazer in the artworld and create my own Abstract Photography-Realistic Painting niche.
Craig Shillington, about 1 year ago
It’s true Michelle …. Art is in the heart … or more so the Soul of the artist. The Beholder is usually the one who feels a great connection with the feelings in the Art. Maybe for you the realism in your painting … is a need for you to convey something as real as you can using expression in the form of something not real. Photography being an art of copying to convey something …. it’s too easy for you to be realistic in that way … so fantasize more through photography. Dunno …. just saying ;) Whatever it is for you … follow your heart and as long as YOU are happy with how it is teaching you about you … continue to do so and grow :) :)
Belinda Leopold, about 1 year ago
Here I go getting on my high horse…..What I hate most in the “ART” world is other stuck up artists/photographers-I come across them constantly. And sometimes when I speak to people, I have to stop and try not to become one of those people myself(very hard at times-depending on who you have to talk to!!....) “Art is this” and “Art is that”...”And I did my Bachelor of Arts for x amount of years, so that QUALIFIES me as artistic and all-round expert in taste in general”...Sorry to offend those of you who have done the above-not trying to offend ALL of you-all I’m saying is that every person I’ve met who appears to have more knowlege/experience/qualifications than me in these areas, there is a cocky air to them when it comes to the essential topic at hand (Art)-”ART IS…-And I think I should know….”
Sure, anyone can be an artist, but to do it well and to evoke feelings is the key-Go forth and just DO-think later-that’s what I keep telling myself!! (And it’s extra hard with so many talented people on this site-wahhhhhh!!!!) :) And one more thing!! People always expect you to be one way or another (ie-painter, photographer, writer…) So if you happen to be a few of these, “Artist” is the best word to use-it’s a pity that a lot of the time this is met with bemusement and judgement. Does anyone agree with me?? Do what makes you feel good, and do what challenges you-that’s where the greatest satisfaction comes from!! No labels!!
Belinda Leopold, about 1 year ago
PS-I am an Aquarius, so don’t be surprised that I am a little “out there”!! ;)
Tom Godfrey, about 1 year ago
Hi Michelle. I do reaslitic pastel and acrylic wildlife paintings, then take time out to create wacky fantasy paintings and cartoons. I love both forms of creativity and expression, so I’m right with you on the crazy bench :) Carry on following your heART.
Michael Douglass, about 1 year ago
I think people do (or pursue) what they’re good at. So keep going with both.
Helene Kippert, about 1 year ago
I do realistic drawings as well as some abstract expressionist drawings. Sometimes I just feel like breaking away from the realism, and then I’ll swing back when the mood takes me. Don’t let anyone tell you you have to do just one thing – variety is the spice of life! Oh and your latest series is great!
BarbBarcikKeith, 10 months ago
Michelle.. do what’s in your heart and forget what “they” say.. “they” don’t live in your head or your heart.. (I’m a Libra too.. so I sympathize)
Belinda.. OMG do I ever know what you mean! There is an element of the “holier than thou” because the have the education. But… (please don’t take offense) I have noticed that a LOT of those people CAN’T DRAW!! And, another thing.. boy, do they get ticked off when you try to tell them that their “work” is anatomically incorrect!! One other thing.. they seem to end up being teachers… hmmmmmm