I decided recently, or perhaps I just finally realised, that having an art practice is having a friend.
Mine’s not too demanding – one might even say forgiving. It accepts times of inattention and superficial contact. It is patient. It remains constant during periods of my frustration and confusion, my indecision and fumbling.
An art practice is a long-term companion. It hangs around, present and comforting. It flourishes when we interact, as I do; retains its potential during all sorts of experimentation and failures; is stoic in the face of doubt. It celebrates with me and grows a little with each success.
It boosts me, inspires me to be better, draws out positivity and hope. It sits by me during long days and facilitates exciting opportunities.
My art practice is less something I do and more something I exist with. We walk together, often silently, sometimes joyously but always closely.
Until later,
Kirsten
Everyday Thoughts of an Artist 