Is it frivolous to paint and make art when so many awful things are happening in the world?

This is what Louise Fletcher and Alice Sheridan were talking about in episode 275 of Art Juice: Making Art in Messy Times. While their discussion addressed many valid aspects of finding balance during these times, it struck me that no one was talking about the energetic benefits of creativity and painting.

My take is that making art is not frivolous. It’s essential. Painting and other creative pursuits offer more than mere distraction; they provide a potent prescription for what ails us individually and collectively.

Intuition can be a powerful guide in decision-making, yet many people struggle to trust their inner guide, especially when it comes to crucial choices like selecting a romantic partner, choosing a career path, or determining their next life step. As an intuition coach, I’ve encountered countless individuals who’ve lost faith in their decision-making abilities. My response? “You can absolutely trust yourself!” I introduce them to a simple yet effective…

I don’t know who coined the word procrasti-painting, but it’s a good way to describe what us painters do when resistance rears its ugly head. 

The Love Poem Garden painting, an abstract painting by mixed media artist Natalie Eve Marquis.

Every artist’s journey is peppered with moments of brilliance and bouts of frustration. But there’s a particular phase in the creative process that can make even the most seasoned painters question their abilities – the notorious “messy middle.” It’s that pivotal point where everything goes to sh*t on your canvas and your confidence takes a serious hit.

Many artists start painting with enthusiasm, only to lose momentum.. If this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone. Your Inspiration and intuition haven’t deserted you. It’s most likely one of these common pitfalls are hindering your progress. Let’s dig in and learn how to recognize and resolve them in order to reignite your creative flow.

Imagine a creative companion that never criticizes, only celebrates. That’s the canvas before me - a silent conspirator in the joyful chaos of creation. With each brushstroke, whether timid or bold, intentional or accidental, it whispers, “Yes, and…?” It transforms my missteps into stepping stones, my hesitations into happy accidents.

I couldn’t help but marvel at the synchronicity when I pulled the Deer Medicine card this morning. This animal, symbolizing gentleness, perfectly aligned with an article I had posted just yesterday titled “Art Making is a Gentle Teacher.” My higher self is emphasizing the importance of gentleness in my creative journey.

Artist Natalie Eve Marquis, Exeter, NH

We Three Native American Painting Family by HonoringMotherEarth