Originally Yours Sept 2 2021

Sounds like the name of a consignment store. right? Actually this is what we named an art show years ago. We had started a local art group where the focus was on support, learning and encouragement. So many times I had heard the remark ‘I always wanted to paint but I don’t know where to start’. There was a fear behind those words. Fear of not being good enough, fear of judgement, fear of wasting time and money…My response was often “Kids have no fear of picking up crayons and colouring. They do it because they enjoy it”. When did we learn that fear?

Is there a perception that to create art you have to be good at it? Study of art is an ongoing process. But you have to begin somewhere. Are there expectations that you will create great works within weeks? No. Can you have fun? Definitely yes. No-one begins to play the piano expecting to wow themselves or others. It is only practicing that creates improvement. I started painting when folk art was the craze in the 80’s. I still run into people who have my painted ducks or phone book covers hanging around. And I never stop learning.

In the 80″s. I created and painted phone book covers called “Bookems”

Back to the name “Originally Yours”. We named this show because it was an opportunity for buyers to purchase original art – not something that was mass produced. Each individual piece was the result of someone’s vision and hard work. And there is something to be said about one of a kind.

I encourage anyone with a spark of desire to pick up a brush and discover the amazing joy of creating your own original art. And study, study, study. There are so many resources available. If you want some advice on where to find them at any budget, contact me and I will be happy to direct you. And go buy original art that speaks to you. Fall in love with a painting and put it where you can smile at it every day.

After all, you are an original and deserve it.