“Ah, ignore me. I’ve got a touch of existential flu” –Inspector Lewis, “Soul of Genius”
Every now and then I have a bout of artists angst.
My creations seem worthless, foolish, juvenile attempts. I ponder questions of the meaning of life, of my daily doings. I wonder internally and externally “What’s the point of it all?”
After purposed distraction away from my “existential flu,” I am able to reflect upon firmer footing. I hear quiet, in-progress answers.
The point of art, of “platform-building,” of more Twitter followers, more Facebook likes, more blog subscribers, art shows…well, of everything really…the point of it all is to share.
At least to me, at least today.
Sometimes our efforts are directed toward success: fame and fortune. Probably not gonna happen. I honestly can’t name a single “famous” living artist. I can name successful, well-known local artists, or respected artists in this particular group or that. But an overarchingly world-famous modern day artist? Not your household name.
Hoping for posthumous fame? It could happen…but why strive only for such a slim, seriously almost impossibly slim, chance? Not my goal… (I mean, hey, if I turn out to be amazing and take the world of art by storm, and am remembered throughout future history, I won’t complain).
Fortune? I sell art in a satisfying amount, at what I hope are reasonable, accessible prices… Not seeking my fortune. (yes, I have a day job, as most artists do…)
At this point in my life, the point of my strivings are to collect and share.
To collect pieces of beauty, depth, purpose; to evoke memories, some form ofgoodness, to encourage reflection and change, to share truths small and large as I find them.
It may sound mushy; “sentimental hogwash,” if you will. But I think it is a worthy endeavor.
I think this “point of it all” can be applied everywhere in life. To share what we can with our fellow beings. To share support with those who need it, to foster environments of safety & respite where it is lacking. To share peace & beauty when things seem dim, to share some sort of goodness in a world that holds on to much pain. To share a presence and an understanding that life is not easy, and you are not alone.
“We’re all in this thing together
Walkin’ the line between faith and fear
This life don’t last forever
When you cry I taste the salt in your tears”
-Old Crow Medicine Show
Wow, how did you know I needed that this week? Existential flu must be going around… Thanks for inspiring me, as always 🙂
Still fighting it off and on…a few relapses I think! Pretty sure our Taco Tuesday will help cure it, haha!