I used to think being angry—or just in a bad mood—meant I should stay away from making art.
I got some really bad advice.
“Don’t paint unless your energy is clear.”
“Meditate first.”
“Align your intentions.”
Blah blah blah.
Let me tell you the truth: this particular piece?
It was born in anger. And now it hangs in a private collection.
The woman who bought it said she felt an instant connection. She saw it, and she knew.
That piece was hers.
Am I an emotional being? You bet I am.
So are you.
I can also be calm, calculating, concerned, conciliatory.
Why on earth would I not paint just because I’m in a mood?
Great art—the kind that grabs someone and won’t let go—is made by an artist who feels what they feel and pours it out onto the canvas without apology.
I truly don’t understand why so many spiritual teachers insist we have to bypass emotion. “Be happy.” “Choose joy.” “Raise your vibration.”
As if mega-millionaires don’t wake up cranky and still go get what they want anyway.
Give yourself a break.
Give yourself grace.
Feel what you feel—and create anyway.
The feeling won’t stay unless you give it a reason to.
But the art?
That lasts!
Hurricane Laura, 48” x 24” oil on birchwood panel.