Why Some Are Creative: Every Artist Starts Somewhere

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I've been making some progress on my painting adventures! I've got a few new pieces finished, and I may have another one coming soon featuring an orange sunset with some silhouettes inspired by a photo I took. We'll see if my paintbrush cooperates.

I'm not claiming to be the next Monet. I'm just trying to get a little better with every painting. That's half the fun. The other half is seeing if someone actually wants to hang one on their wall instead of using it to cover a hole in the drywall.

I'd also love to sell a few pieces here and there. It helps fund fun things like going out to eat, traveling, and donating to charities I support. A hobby that pays for tacos and good causes? Not there but trying. That's a win in my book.

A few years ago, my photography was accepted into a California photography association, so my next goal is to have my paintings juried into an art association. I need to submit three pieces, so wish me luck!

One of my artist friends also told me I can get a free booth at a local farmers market next month before I head out for a while. I figure I'll set up my paintings, enjoy the day, and see if anyone falls in love with one. If not, at least I'll get some fresh air and probably buy more kettle corn than I should.

For those who have asked, I lowered my prices while I experiment with what people think is fair for "enthusiast-level artwork." I've wandered through galleries and seen paintings priced high enough to require a second mortgage. Beauty really is in the eye of the beholder, and so is pricing!

Most of my paintings are now around $80 with free shipping. I also sell to friends at the highly competitive "buy me my favorite beverage" discount.

If you see one you like, let me know. If nothing else, thanks for following along as I continue learning one brushstroke at a time!

The key point is that if you want to do something just do it because every artist starts somewhere. 

Check out this study on creativity....

New Study Reveals Why Some People Are More Creative Than Others

• The study found that creativity is linked to the interaction of three major brain networks: the default mode network (idea generation), the executive control network (evaluation and refinement), and the salience network (switching between brainstorming and focused thinking).
• Researchers used functional MRI (fMRI) scans while participants completed a divergent thinking task, demonstrating that stronger communication among these brain networks was associated with higher levels of creative thinking.
• Participants who generated more original and useful ideas during the experiment also reported greater involvement in creative hobbies and achievements, suggesting the findings extend beyond laboratory testing.
• The findings challenge the belief that creativity depends on a single "creative center" in the brain. Instead, creativity emerges from the coordinated activity of multiple brain systems working together.
• The research suggests that creativity is a cognitive skill that exists on a spectrum and may be strengthened through activities that encourage both spontaneous idea generation and deliberate critical thinking.

Beaty, R. E. (2018, January 16). New study reveals why some people are more creative than others. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/new-study-reveals-why-some-people-are-more-creative-than-others-90065