Monday, April 13, 2009

Illustrator's block

I'm working on some illustrations for a children's book my friend is writing. I know I can do it, but I sit down to the paper and I freeze up. I read books to my daughter and I get caught up in how awesome the illustrations look and how I could never make mine look like that! This is my deadliest disease. I compare myself to others.

I am good at a ton of things, but exceptionally good at only a few. It is those things I doubt the most. Why? Because I care too much. What if my friend doesn't like my artwork? Is it the end of the world? No. But I want her to like it so very much. And the fear of her not liking it keeps me from putting pencil to paper.

It's the same with my music. I live in a town full of the most incredible musicians. And when I write (or sing), I compare myself to people who have been doing this professionally for upwards of 20 years! And I want you to like it. I want you to LOVE it. I forget the fact that I love DOING it and get caught up in what you think. So today I write. Today I draw. Today I paint because I love it and I'll shut out that little voice that worries that no one will like my work. It's not truly for you anyway because I would do it even if I was the only person left on earth.

Just as a little aside...go here for a little pick-me-up for your day. I love it when the inside glory of someone shines!

2 comments:

Thesupermanns said...

you are so creative...i love how it flows from you no matter what. Love your voice too...didnt know you drew. ALSO...im crying happy tears because of that British woman on the show. GOOD FOR HER!!!! that was so fun...thanks for sharing

M.M.E. said...

I think everyone feels that way. There's always someone better than you. That's just the way things are. And even if you're the best, you aren't secure in that fact.

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