The Rewards of Art
The Joys of Creating
[“Windsor”, by Jeannie Willets. My latest pet portrait commission, acrylic paint & tile custom creation, for my friend, Craig.]
Since I was a child, creating art has always brought me such joy. Of course, I’ve also gotten much pleasure from viewing works of art, from listening to beautiful music, reading a good book, or from watching an unforgettable classic film. There’s nothing quite like experiencing a masterpiece, whatever art form it comes in. The only thing that comes close would be creating something masterful yourself that you are really proud of.
There are many kinds of rewards that come from creating a great work of art. There are: compliments, applause, money, offers and opportunities, referrals, recognition, and respect, to name a few. These are all very worthwhile and very valuable. However, there is one reward that is very “personal”. And that is: a sense of accomplishment. A feeling of satisfaction, once you’ve completed that painting you’ve been working on for so long. Finding that last verse of that song that you’ve been searching for and finishing composing it.
When Art “Comes To Life”
When I see one of my paintings start to “come to life”, it’s always so exciting to me——to see it go through the stages of: the preliminary sketch, then the blocking out of the main colors, then the finer details, and finally, the last finishing touches. I feel like I’m actually watching it “come to life” before my eyes.
[“Cat doodles” by Jeannie Willets. I did these with markers for my friends, Claudia and Diana.]
It’s the same with music. When I’m in the studio recording and I’m adding tracks and instruments, layer by layer, it’s so rewarding to hear it all come together, more and more . . . like it’s coming to life.
And lately I’ve been getting together with a wonderful keyboard player and we’ve been preparing a repertoire as a duo to do some “live” shows together. (More on that later!) So here’s another example of creating something and watching it take on a life of its own. I just love the way we each play and sing a part and voila! The result is a joyful and worthwhile creation.
The Joys of Creating
Creating is a wonderful ability to have. But, even if you don’t create yourself, enjoying the creations of others can be extremely satisfying, as well. In actuality, we all create, really. For instance, some people are very good at cooking and create wonderful meals! Others are very skilled at communicating with others and create wonderful relationships. Some parents create a lovely home for their children so that their children feel safe and loved. How valuable is that!
There’s really no limit to all of the awesome things we can create! All are valid. But, when it comes to art and music, well, I guess, to me, there’s nothing quite like breathing life into something that brings you joy and brings joy to others.
[“Katia’s Kitchen” by Jeannie Willets. Acrylic paint on tile. I created this for my friend, Katia, who incidentally is an amazing cook!]
Go For It!
Is there something you’ve been thinking of creating lately? Go for it! Isn’t that why we’re all here? To create fun and interesting things, as well as, a joyful life for ourselves and for others? I say, “don’t hold back!” You know what to do. I’m giving ya the green light. Give it a shot!
As always, I hope this has been useful and I’m wishing you all of life’s blessings!
Til next time!
ox Jeannie
[Custom Pet Portraits done by Jeannie Willets. Acrylic paint and tile. To order one of your darling pet, just email: jwmuzic@yahoo.com.]
To hear samples of Jeannie’s music and purchase digital downloads and Jeannie’s cds, just visit: www.jeanniewillets.com
Your support is greatly appreciated! Thank you!