But, I just doodle.

Which, I do. And I love it.

However, this thought that I “just” doodled meant that I couldn’t be an artist. How could I? That was Van Gogh. That was Frida. Oh, the beauty of Jean-Michel Basquiat. That was for folks who had B.F.A.’s, had formal training, and studied the masters. Which, fair. Many artists do all these wonderful things. But, does that mean I (or you) are excluded as artists if we don’t follow this path?

No.

And it made me consider if this is why it took waiting until my late 40’s to start this? Which, yes.

I was lucky to come across the book “Becoming An Artist” written by Scott Christian Sava while waiting around for my kiddo to be done with chess club at our public library. While I had just started exploring watercolor, and had created various small thank you paintings for my dissertation defense, reading this rocket launched my interest and efforts. I carried this book everywhere. Scott wrote not only about his own journey, but also implored for folks to create art. Without worrying about it being “good”. Without needing formal training or official titles. Create because the world needs it. Create because it pours out of you. Because it is a passion. Truly, reading this book changed my life in such a positive way.

Does this mean I don’t doubt? Oh no. If only.

I still look at my cutesy stuff and wonder. I wonder what my ‘style’ is. I wonder if people like it. I wonder if the world of fine art will flow through me one day. I wonder if I will ever be part of an exhibit. Wonderful.

I guess my penny of wisdom was being intentional to eliminate describing our process as “just” when I talk about my unfolding artist journey. I don’t just doodle. I create art, therefore, I am an artist.

Masterpeices. One and all.

Keep unfolding! Keep creating. It’s beautiful.

And as Chris would say, the world needs your art.

Ana