We question our actions at times.  Why do I create, paint, draw, teach, etc?  Why not get a desk job in an office, make more money, and … be content?  Naturally, in my years fresh out of school, I wanted to paint for shows, commission, sales.  Nothing is wrong with that.  Money does, indeed, motivate.  But I still had to work full time to pay the bills.  An annual sale and commission or two over the last several years has been nice, but more for my recognition than my pocket book.  As I have grown, I have a new outlook on why I create.  And it’s not all about money.

Last spring, I had my first solo show in years.  I spread the word, invited friends, family, acquaintances galore.  I was happy with my paintings, but even more so, ecstatic to share my talents, and excited to see what kind of responses my work would receive.

My anticipation grew as friends showed interest, promised they would attend.  The evening of the show had a nice turnout.  My work was well recieved.  I sold several paintings.  I really can’t complain. But at the end of the night, I was truly disappointed that many good friends who had promised to attend were no shows.  Why the disappointment?  Because, frankly, I share my work to spread joy, excitement, surprise in the eyes of the viewer.  That makes it all worthwhile.  Supposedly, Van Gogh sold one painting during his lifetime.  I have surpassed that.  However, to see someone experience and enjoy my work, that is satisfying for my creative soul.  Selfishly, I had been depending on these friends to fulfill my need for artistic acceptance.  I should have been finding it within myself.

Last December, I decided that I needed a different goal for my 2013 artwork.  The CReATe Happiness Project 2013 was born.  I determined that I would share my art with friends and strangers, confidentially and on tiny canvases, for the sole purpose of spreading a little joy, to bring a smile, to let someone know that someone is thinking about them.  Art for the sake up uplifting others.  Happiness that I may never see, but great satisfaction I will gain in sharing.

This, my friends, is why I create.