Natasha - The Artist

What’s cool about WordPress is I get to see which search terms people used that led to my blog. I get all giggly when I see my name in that list…

Today, someone found my blog by searching for “what traits do you think an artist needs“. That completely struck me. I immediately needed to write about it.

What traits do you think an artist needs?

I believe there is an artist in all of us. We might not excel in every art form, heck we might not excel at any, but there is still that artist in us. It’s a question of opening up the body to allow for the creativity to flow. There is no need for a specific trait. Ok, maybe if you want to make a career out of being an artist — that’s different. It’s like making a career around the law, there are specific traits you need to be a lawyer (I definitely don’t have them), but you don’t need any particular traits to be interested in it, I certainly am — I could even say I find the law fascinating, but I wouldn’t become a lawyer. 

If you are considering becoming a career artist, the one trait that is key is preferring the unexpected, the spontaneity, no routines. And also being able to kick yourself in the butt when resistance kicks back (oups I promised I wouldn’t mention resistance anymore)… OK, so kick yourself in the butt to keep moving forward. There, that’s better.

Bottom line is, everyone can express their inner artist. There are many art forms to help you do so. You might not like drawing or painting, but you just might like playing musical instruments, or singing… or acting. Let’s not forget dancing, sculpting, photography, jewelry making, gardening, ceramics, architecture, textiles,…  You get the picture.

Artistic expression is also great meditation. I am the most mindful when I paint. The wandering thoughts that seem to go through my mind all day simply vanish and give way to creative expression. I feel refreshed, calm, serene.

Most importantly, do it for yourself, not for others. Never forget that.