Today I did something huge.

I let go of an original piece of art that I poured my heart and soul into. For anyone who knows me well, this is a concept that has taken me some time to adjust to. I get so attached to the things I create, why? I am not sure why. Perhaps because they are an extension of myself? When I create something, it's like giving birth....except much less painful! When it's complete, I am amazed that the work came from me! Much like the way I feel when I see my children, I think, how did that come out of me?

 

 

Why is it such a surprise to me to see my finished art?

Maybe it's because when I am in the zone, painting, it's sort of like an out of body experience! I am there, looking at my work, but not in the way someone passing by views it. I am looking into my work, into the painting, sometimes my eyes aren't even focusing, it's all just happening! Maybe that's why when a piece is complete, I say, "I have no idea how I just did that. It just happened!"

 

What made letting go easier this time?

Today I let go of one of my babies. Perhaps it was easier because it was a portrait of someone else's baby with someone else's pet. Whatever the reason, it felt good! I have learned to be disciplined about photographing or scanning all of my original artwork to get over that fear of letting go. Now, if I want to review a piece I made in the past, it's just a few clicks away.

 

Maybe it was easier because Nikki, the winner of my 2017 National Dog Day Photo Contest, is also an artist, and was so kind and appreciative. Knowing that it's going to be cherished and taken care of makes it easier.

 

What in your life do you have trouble letting go of?

Perhaps if you think of letting go as a way to bring joy to the life of someone else, it will be easier to part with something you cherish.

 

Sometimes, having a picture of the memento, or person, or pet, can make letting go a little easier. I think just knowing that it will be hanging up on display makes me feel better than having it in storage where no one can see it! Sort of like that saying in the bible about, what good is a light if you put a basket over it? No one can see it!

 

"Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew, 5:15-16

 

I have come a long way in the process of learning to let go of my original art, but I have a long ways to go! Maybe that's part of what I enjoy about painting other people's dogs. I know that the portrait will be a light for the owners. By letting go of the paintings and sketches I create of their pets, I can help them honor and cherish their furry family members!

 

 

More about the Painting that I sent to a new home today

The painting of winner, Nikki's daughter and her sister's dog, received the popular vote during the gallery opening held at CoworkQC on National Dog Day, August 26, 2017 in conjunction with downtown Davenport's new, Alternating Currents Festival. All 10 of the large portraits were on display at the coworking space from August 26-November 30, 2017. The other pieces from the collection along with newer works can be viewed online via this link: Custom Dog Portraits