How do you retain hope and optimism over the long haul? I think about this question frequently, especially as the pandemic drags on and on. Whenever I embark on a new art quilt, I know step one is commitment. Fortunately, the start of a new artwork is a very heady time. I am filled with possibilities and optimism. Then it is time hang in, hold on tight, the roller coaster ride begins.
When I am nose to the needle, I see every deviant stitch, mismatched seam and less than optimal fabric choice. It is easy to get caught up in self doubt and feel discouraged. I have learned to persevere. How? Simple, I remind myself that this feeling is a normal part of the process and it is only a feeling. After 30 years of making quilts and most of these years tackling intricate artworks, I have gained confidence that the current piece will get finished. I may not be in love with it at the end. However, over time I will make friends with it, see how it fits in my portfolio of work and even discover it isn’t so bad after all.
It is important to quiet the negative self talk while making art. This is easier said, than done. Sometimes I need concrete evidence. One gift I get from the structure of a weekly blog post is weekly in progress images of my art work. So, that is what I have shared with you today.
I am linking up with Nina Marie’s Off the Wall Fridays.
