This year, as my contribution to #the100dayproject, I will be repeating my #100daysofencouragement initiative, which I did for the first time in 2018. Since, then I have spotlighted over 300 artists. I’m looking forward to another opportunity to fulfill my mission to support and encourage other artists at all levels of skill and experience.
Why That Theme?
While artmaking and creative expression are among the biggest joys in my life, I also know that facing a blank canvas everyday can be daunting and lonely work. Even when I am creating in the studio with my husband nearby, only I face the micro-decisions, the anxiety of feeling “not enough” or “too much,” and the scarcity and comparisons that can grip my heart and threaten my confidence. It’s a brave and vulnerable thing to risk making art and putting it out into the world!
So, I want to encourage other artists and promote some basic principles of a generous culture in the art community on Instagram:
We all rise together — Another person’s success is not a threat to me. When one artist makes a sale or wins a prize or creates something phenomenal, all artists benefit. The energetic level of artistic enterprise rises for all of us.
Community over competition — We can view other artists as threats, competitors for a limited amount of fame and fortune. Or we can view one another as allies, on a similar journey, who can support one another because we have nothing to fear — there is enough “fame and fortune” to go around!
Comparison is the thief of joy — It’s good to look at others’ artwork and learn what we can learn from each other — it has been the way for centuries of artmaking across all disciplines. However, comparison that diminishes you is a soul-killer. When I look at another person’s art and assume that they have “talent” and thus this fabulous piece emerged effortlessly from their vision to the finished product, it’s a recipe for discouragement. I must remember not to compare someone else’s “outsides” to my “insides.”
Being me is good enough — No one else can make the art that is mine to make. And the same is true for you. That is enough.
How It Will Work
For 100 days, I will:
Create a piece of art inspired by one or more contemporary artists;
Tell you a little bit about the artist’s creative journey;
Invite you to:
Follow them on social media, and
Send them a note of encouragement by commenting on one of their posts or sending a direct message
I usually to try to do the 100 days on schedule along with everyone else. (I’m basically a compliant kind of person, and I suffer from FOMO, so I want to keep up.) But this year, I am trying to practice self-care in a season of busy-ness. So, here’s my plan: I will do the #100daysofencouragement posts approximately 5 days per week. It will take me longer to complete the 100 days — at least 20 weeks — but I think it’s the best way for me to get the benefits of participation and keep my sanity.
Project Goals
It’s easy to complain about the state of the world and wring our hands in despair or indulge in ironic detachment. But, in this season in human history, don’t we desperately need demonstrations of hope and encouragement? I hope that by journeying along with me and participating by offering encouragement when you can, you will feel the joy and gratitude of being part of the solution. We can help triumph over indifference and cruelty with simple gestures of attunement and kindness.
My hope is that you will find some new artist crushes and sources of inspiration. And I hope that the featured artists will feel lifted-up and appreciated.
Next Steps
If you haven’t already subscribed to this newsletter, use the box below to sign up now so you don’t miss any of the featured artists. And stay tuned for my invitations to reach out and touch a creative heart with your kindness.
Plus, why not think about participating in The 100 Day Project yourself. Pick your own project — anything goes. It’s a wonderful hashtag challenge that helps stimulate your creative practice!