Do you know that feeling that suddenly washes over you, like a heat wave but not exactly, of how lucky you are? That’s how I felt when we finally met. Six artists from different parts of the world, who have known each other for over two years from bi-weekly Zoom meetings. In one of those meetings, the idea came up to meet in person, and from there, it was a short path to choosing Tuscany as the preferred destination.
What an incredible place to paint. The landscape practically demands it. Six artists spreading out their equipment down the hillside, breathing in the intoxicating views, and painting. And the results are so different from each other. One paints small, another large. One in black and white, another in color. One creates a representational painting, another an abstract one. Endless interpretations.
Every evening, we meet in the living room of our shared studio to discuss our work, share experiences and thoughts. Valuable time for meaningful learning.
I’ve written before about the creative process. Those six stages that often appear in a single work, as well as in the ongoing process. As you may recall (and if not, it's worth reading the post called "How to overcome creative blocks?"), it starts with enthusiasm and a burst of joy, continues with doubt that spirals into near-despair, and gradually turns around. It’s a personal and subjective process, but when there are other artists around, there’s an influence, likely mutual, on the feelings and on the work.
In the best case, it’s inspiration. In the worst case, it’s jealousy. Somewhere in the middle there is comparison. That watershed moment that determines the approach and chooses the path that either fosters growth, or leads to paralysis, potentially dragging you into the depths of frustration and despair.
I read somewhere that some psychologists hypothesized that there are around 34,000 different emotions. So, there’s surely room for a few more that fit within this range.
They say that jealousy is an emotion we might feel towards people we perceive as more or less our equals. We probably wouldn’t see a beginner artist envying, say, Picasso. But what do you do when, during a two-week residency, you’re constantly surrounded by artists who are somewhat like you??
I try to avoid even reaching the point of comparison. I strive to stick to the realms of positive and nurturing inspiration.
How do I do it? I try to:
1. Stick to my own process. If I decided to explore a particular subject in my painting, I’ll stay on my path.
2. If I see something I love in someone else’s work, I ask myself what exactly it is. I try to define it in words so that it can serve me as inspiration rather than, heaven forbid, imitation.
3. Gather technical information. The type of paper, the type of paint, work processes, and also the ideas behind the work. All these expand one’s mind.
4. Be generous with what I contribute to the group. Besides creating a good atmosphere, it boosts self-worth if one falls into the trap of comparison.
5. Not take myself too seriously. I remind myself that I’m here to play. To enjoy.
We’ve arrived for two weeks. This is a good amount of time for such a process. The enchanting landscapes expand the heart and soul and offer a crazy opportunity for learning and growth.
Thanks for unforgettable two weeks:
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