“Dive into the Deep”
24 x 24 x 2 inches
Encaustic on Cradled Panel
Moving on to Blogathon Day 10, I have no problem talking about risks since that’s what I do everyday. When I enter the studio in the morning, it is all about risks. The images made here are not always risky per se but I’m sure you face what I do when you stand in front of that blank panel, canvas, computer screen, or whatever media you may be using and you make the first mark, write the first word, your heart gives a little flutter and you consider maybe not working that day. I ask the same questions everyday no matter how confident I am….am I good enough? can I do it again? It is always better when I turn completed drawings and paintings to the wall so that they don’t try to tell me anything and so that I have a chance to leave my expectations and all the critics, including myself, outside the door.
I thank myself for the first risk, quitting a full time job and starting a commercial photography business many years ago. It taught me how business works and that has certainly come in handy in the business world of art. I didn’t do this alone, my musician husband stood on the sidelines and cheered me on every step of the way. We both had a dream of doing what we love and making a living doing it and we just did it. Not that I will ever say that the path was or is easy sometimes.
Years later, I took the second step which was to close the photography business and paint full-time, making the art I want to make. I am lucky, yes but I have also put in the many hours it takes to achieve my goals. The work I do everyday inspires me and I do it because I must do it. It is what I know and understand the best.
Throughout my career I have many people to thank for their love, support, and understanding. I am especially thankful for my artist friends, lifelong friends, gallery owner friends who tell me the truth. It is easier to take risks when you have that kind of support. What else could I ask for?
Helen DeRamus Studio 
Helen, I love your art and thank you for writing this blog – it inspires me. I would love to talk more to you about your transition.
Thanks for taking beautiful risks!
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I appreciate your reading and commenting. Would enjoy talking with you too! This is quite a journey posting everyday. Finding it even more interesting than I expected.
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I love your blogathon. You are so talented I cannot imagine you being insecure. There is no one like you on the planet.
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I think you’re lucky that you have people who tell you the truth!
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You are so right. Need to keep my head in the right place!
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either way š
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Helen, I really am enjoying your Blog. Your writing and your creative works of art are so honest and engaging. Your artistic persona shine through both.
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Thanks for reading my blog. I must admit to finding the writing much harder to do that the painting. But having fun. Now to find time to read all the blogs I want to.
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Thank you, dear Helen, for reminding us that gratitude is a key ingredient to our art, to our joy. What a beautiful path you’ve followed. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
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Lee your comments are very welcome and appreciated by me.
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