Gratitude and Making Art

“May what I do flow from me like a river, no forcing and no holding back, the way it is with children.” ~Rilke

I have a theory that there is a connection between gratitude and creativity, making art.  I believe that if you have more gratitude, it is easier to make art — especially if you are in the middle of a large project, which requires a lot of perseverance and patience.

As creators we are constantly looking for what is next.  Our next body of work, project or goal, and how we are going to get there.  With this forward-looking perspective, we often focus on what we are lacking.  However, the mindset focused on improvement can really push us forward with our creative work but every so often we need to center ourselves.  We need to come back to who we are and what we do and think about what we are grateful for.

Thus, if you can focus on giving thanks; the positive; being thankful for where you are at; and showing gratitude it will enable you to continue your creative work more easily instead of focusing on the gaps and what is missing.  Gratitude – whether we feel it or receive it – gives birth to creative ideas.

Happy Wednesday!