Happy with my True Self • by Candie Cooper

My story isn’t so much of a story as more things I’ve stashed away in my creative life suitcase that have helped me on a road paved with metal, paint, glue, felt, rivets, glitter, and beads. I’ve learned a lot, thanks to my fellow artists and the school of Hard Knocks.

It was the lovely ArtGirlz that taught me you’ve got to “be brave.” It was so obvious and true when it comes to creating! There are times when projects can take a turn for the worse and you have to “be brave” to push onward and know that YOU WILL get it.

All about Experimenting
My college professor once asked me, “Do you have to like everything you make?” That stuck. The answer is no. There really is a lid for every pot on all levels from love to art. If you don’t love it, someone else will! I promise.

It’s all about experimenting! Give yourself some time to play and play some more. The piece may end up being a keeper or a disaster, but either way you tried something different and learned along the way.

Speaking of learning, don’t ever stop. The more we exercise our brains, the more we grow. I started watching art documentaries this past winter because I fight the seasonal blues. It gave me new things to think about, which took my mind off the gray days of winter and gave me some new perspectives. There are lots of ways to learn — trade technique ideas with a friend, take a class, watch a movie.

Patience with Yourself
My grandpa gave me an article that was published in our local newspaper about my great-great grandmother who was a painter. She said, “Everyone should have a hobby.” Truer words were never spoken. We have so many stressors, and a creative outlet is a good healthy way to release all that mumbo jumbo that makes our muscles tense.

Lose the perfectionism and negative self talk. Why do we think we have to do everything perfectly?!? So much pressure. Blah. Be patient with yourself because you’re great!

Find the good in what children create and show love and praise. I teach hundreds of school children a year through my artist in residencies. You can see children whose creativity has been nurtured and celebrated! It all starts with the little ones. I can’t remember where I read it, but it really struck me: Your happiness is your gift to everyone else. When I create something good, I feel happy with my true self ... I know you know what I’m talking about.

To learn more about Candie Cooper, visit candiecooper.com.

Comments

[Mod Podge Amy]

I love all of this! Candie, the article is awesome and great to know more about you even though we are friends! xo