Critiques... Helpful or nah?

Critiques. Sometimes they are needed. Helpful even. But the hard truth about them is that they aren't always right. They aren't always in your best interest. You have to know and trust yourself. Even if the people you show your baby paintings to before releasing them to the wild (or not) are some of your closest or most trusted, they may not always guide you true. They may be seeing something that is out of the ordinary for you, an evolution in your work, style, or self. They might not like it.

Take this painting below- the crow in the image is definitely outside of my standard body of work as it stood. But after a long and much needed break, when I came back- this was what felt right. In fact this entire return series has bits of representational work included- something I have never done before. But it felt like the right step, for this time.

It was the first item my trusted friends pointed out- some felt like it was not finished. Some felt that the background was great, but not the crow itself.

But for me.... the crow was the strongest part. The one thing I was sure of.

Fly Away - Mixed Media on Panel

That is okay. Not everyone has to see or agree with your vision. To this very day, one of my most requested paintings had a faint mark that I was encouraged to cover- I refused. For me, that ghost of a mark was the most important piece of the painting. My inner voice knew what I felt and was trying to communicate... I trusted it. I didn't make the changes. The piece has long since sold, but every show I host, I am asked if it is still available, or if I will consider making prints.

Painting in process- more in alignment with my standard style

This obsessive drive to have all you work look similar, or be identifiable is harmful. It is something about the 'art world' that drives me crazy. This adherence to 'recognizable style' is a trap for artists. Laying a block for growing and changing our own styles. Developing new skills. Chasing our love. Exploration. Art is about who we are at our core, and sometimes, that will grow and change. It will evolve - that is only right and healthy. The truth is that if you are creating and being authentic to yourself, it will always look like you.

As an abstract artist, it's hard to find a core group that knows and sees who I am as a creative. But it happens. My most favorite commission I've ever done was for someone I felt truly saw me and my art. You just have to keep working, look for your community - in person and online - your work won't be for everyone. It's for you. Your work might change over time, you are evolving. This is the path of humanity, to grow and change- hopefully for the better.

Don't listen to the chatter. Stay true- follow your inner guides.