So being a professional artist and going to a “sip n’ paint” event is cheating, right?

Recently I was invited to two different painting events where I got to have a little wine, and be lead through a fun painting exercise. I ended up with drastically different pieces to share. I enjoy doing these classes because it allows me to distill the painting experience to just “doing.” No overthinking, no planning, no second-guessing. No setting up! All I had to do was show up and paint. It was the first time in a while where I didn’t worry so much about the outcome and focused on finishing.

Going to these events reminded me of how easy it is to make something. It’s a feeling that I need to continue to tap into and recreate in my own space, and I’m TRYING so hard. I want to get closer to a casual approach to art making which is detached from anything business-related. I still struggle with being preoccupied with what should happen AFTER I make the artwork, but it’s getting better. Slowly.

How have I been making the efforts to be creative without attachments? Talking it out mostly (shout out to my therapist). I’ve been listening to friends and perusing through online spaces which have been equally motivating and intimidating, however the urge to care is falling away from me which is definitely a good sign.

Thinking back on those sip n’ paint classes though, I’m realizing how inspiring it was. It was an innocuous experience that tapped into something that’s been desperate to find its way back to me. Plus I have two new, complete pieces that feel like a creative departure in a good way! With this surprisingly moving experience, the saga to define this new art “era” that I’m creating, continues.