Hey Keine,

Perhaps that little critical voice in your head is the expectations others have had for your art, all the distinctions between good art and bad art that you were taught.

I have to say, though, that whoever said good art was art with historical context was on to something (yes, I am an art historian, after all). What I take this to mean is that the best art is not just art that is an expression of a single person’s feelings on one particular day, but that is an expression of a whole society over a longer period – an ethos, if you like. The best artists are the ones who capture the essence of the human condition.

I know it sounds like I’m putting more pressure on you, not less, but what I’m saying is, perhaps it will help to make art with a purpose, which is to establish a kinship with the rest of humanity, and perhaps with nature too. Realize that any work, whether good or bad, is a step along the road toward becoming one with the universe. Not every step on that road is a step forward! The failures are just as essential as the successes. I agree with Anita and Joe to an extent; make Me Art while you’re working, and then somewhere along the road, it will become Us Art.

Last but not least, remember that art is not separate from life. Creative inspiration can hit you at any time, so always be mindful.