Art Does Not Speak For Itself, It Tells Your Story 

I remember watching an episode of Peter Draws here on RU-vid. As he draws he always tells a story. But the one thing that stayed with me was when he said "I really like lines." I was like omg me too! I love lines! I love putting strong lines in my work. So the moral of the story is it doesn't matter what you say so much as being honest. You will never know what resonates with your audience. It could be the simplest of things.

When i went to art school, one of the lessons that really stuck with me, that I appreciate a lot is to be intentional with your work. No one really makes art just to make art, there is always something compelling you to create. It could be to share feelings, or to capture the beauty in the world, or explain complex metaphors, or whatever the case may be. Take a moment before you create or while you’re creating to be aware of the driving force behind what you are trying to accomplish. It could be as simple as capturing the shape of an object, it doesn’t matter. When you understand your desire to create a particular piece you can take action to INTENTIONALLY demonstrate that idea. That is the story. The story is the idea you are trying to communicate. It doesn’t have to be your life story. It doesn’t have to be a story you created for a character. It can be the story of your thought. The story of an observation, a moment, an epiphany. Art is the visual representation of who you are, how you think, how you feel, and how you choose to express yourself. I agree with what you said, art speaks for you, not the art. Art doesn’t need to express itself, you do. Art doesn’t need to connect to someone else, you do. That is the beauty of art. Art connects you to the viewer without you ever being there and the story of your art, if it relates to the viewer is what will leave a lasting impression on them. The reason this hits me right now in my life is because I have come to realize I have been so focused on just being accurate and learning technical skills that I have let my creativity take a back seat. I realized this was silencing my voice, by not being intentional, I wasn’t communicating what was in my heart. Art for me is a vehicle to share my message and I let that message get lost by not being intentional about what story I am trying to share.

Hi, Rafi and Klee! Hope you guys are doing well. :) When I hear students or community members mention how "the art should speak for itself", I always like bringing up the example of how, when we go to more expensive restaurants in which the chefs are building up a name for themselves and there's a lot of value given to the food (which in my opinion is an art form in and of itself), it's not uncommon for the chef to come out and actually take time to explain about their dishes to the customers. I think people take the word "story" very literally. But, for me, the way a chef chooses and mixes spices and sauces or whatever, and the sequence of the dishes that they want customers to experience, is a story. It's a message. And yes, customers will probably enjoy the food regardless of whether the chef comes out to explain or not, but I assure you, they'll value the food much more because the chef came out and explained why things were chosen and prepared in that specific way because you know that you were actually mindfully taken through an experience of sorts. An experience designed by the knowledge and tastes and personality of the chef. It leads to more connection. People buy art from artists that they connect to in some shape, way or form. Because lots of people create art that's similar to one's own. But it's your story, your personality and your inner being that keeps people coming back. Sure, one might get lucky and just sell a painting without sharing about oneself and being willing to get vulnerable, but it's not going to keep people coming back and it's not going to build community. I think lots of people want to jump over the fact that we have to build audiences as artists, which takes tons of time and effort. It's through having an audience that one can eventually make a sustainable living through art. Without a community or audience, it's nearly impossible. It takes lots of courage, persistence and the willingness to share and get vulnerable. And I think this goes for any kind of artist, whether it be a musician, a writer, a performer of any type, or a visual artist. Thanks for your honest messages!

We can create human connection by sharing our truth from our heart. By doing so, others will feel free to open their heart and reveal their truth. This allows us to cross perceived barriers and find our commonalities. Creating this kind of trust brings us a feeling of unity which has been sadly lacking. Our feelings of isolation begin with our fear of sharing our true selves. Artists and creators can help pave the way for others by consciously opening themselves through their creating and through their sharing. What fun!

OH MY LORT! This is such an issue in all creative circles - writers included. Somehow (and really we know its because of slimy marketing people) creators often equate 'story' with 'slimy marketing ploy' and I totally see where they get this. I have actually heard gallery owners talk to artists about their story and when the artist shares, the gallery person says they need to come up with something 'higher level' to make their art more 'valuable' which is horse sh't. But anyone hearing that would assume its a made up marketing thing. Story isn't about your own life story necessarily, its about the art - what inspired you for that piece, how you started out, how you come up with new ideas...these are the questions people have and they will ask them repeatedly. So you simply answer those FAQs in advance and that is 'story'.

This reminds me of an online questionnaire I had to fill out that asked about my sexual orientation. My answer: "I never went to one." Sometimes we all feel compelled by certain words to fulfill what we think is an expectation. Maybe "story" sounds to some folks like it should be something lengthy and weighty that adheres to rules about stories. As Rafi explains in reality you and your art are already the story; what you share about that with others can be anything you want. I'd think of it as starting a conversation with someone else.

Telling someone about your work & life inspires others. It's an exchange and a way to be generous. I love the word "story". Stories have carried me through a lot of shit😊. I think that we sometimes forget how much our experiences can mean to others. It's silly to let others highjack the meaning of a word, I feel we do that too much lately. And last but not least; telling stories, even the "intense" ones is healing for the world. The key is to keep it constructive🤗. I think that anyone who overshares is too much, artist or not, lol. Tomorrow I need to showcase my work to a commission. They will decide if I can do exhibits etc. Ofcourse a "no" won't stop me😉. Wish me luck🌺

The cancel crowd is very real. Speaking as someone kicked off a social media platform for posting art, I can understand why artists are reticent to say anything. In a world where Dr. Seuss is accused of racism, it's harder than ever to be genuine.

Art communicates... whether we want it to or not. U R Awesome!

I think of my story as the frame that goes around my art. It doesn't have to be complex or eye-catching or earth-shattering. Without it, the art looks good, but sometimes seems like it's missing something. With it, the art looks a little more complete and fits into the space better. As an example, I recently made a necklace with sparkly goldstone beads and a unicorn charm. The "story" that I attached to the piece was that it was inspired by my daughter who loves all things magical. The necklace itself is obviously a necklace with a unicorn charm, but that little bit of information gives my audience some perspective as to where the idea came from without going into my full biography.

From my experience, the more some one has spent on a piece, the more they want it to be a "conversation" piece that they can retell the story of. Not just what inspired it, or what materials it's made out of - but also to shamelessly gossip about the artist and it's kind of cute at times. They spark up conversations with co-workers, strangers, neighbors, friends, family, and connect with people by having something interesting to talk about. I've started thinking of my pieces as extrovert jewelry and playfully exaggerate details to make it more fun for them. I don't know if it works the same for 2D artwork unless they took a picture and showed people their phone as they talk?

We're all striving for accurate communication. How to communicate authentically? How to translate authentic communication into dollars? Touch hearts. How to touch hearts? Express the truth of your self in a way that stimulates revelation in the mind of another human. You teach when you communicate. I teach you who I am, what I need, what i can provide. Story is all. I love the word story.

You've helped to motivate me to share my 'story'. I like to think of it more as my artistic journey. With each piece I create, I grow and evolve as an artist. I paint what inspires me, if it resonates with others, bonus. Artistic vision however is another subject. Maybe something to consider for a future discussion.

Klee, your hair is growing into a really cute shag. 😍

I know I have always struggled with communication. I think that's why I took to art like I did. It was a way for me to communicate. But learning how to actually talk about your work. Well that's a skill to be learned. A very important one. Something I am currently working on.

Hi GUYS . Exactly WELL SAID. Keep Up the Cool WORK. Have An EXCELLENT DAY ...

You don't HAVE a story. You ARE a story!

For some reason this makes me think of that Seinfeld episode where they're writing the show "about nothing" 🤣

Agree and I'm currently learning this lesson. Letting art speak for itself avoids discussion and sometimes moves it into a direction I didn't want.

Couldn't put it better myself. Nothing to add either. Awesome vid as always.

Art is the experiance of the emotional process of the struggle to create something that moves the heart of the onlooker!

This is a great video. It clairifies the whole "Story" aspect of Art. This is something I have struggled to grasp. I have been one to be passive (like Klee mentioned happened in her past) and I know I need to take more control. I am so used to keeping to myself... May I ask, where do I start?? I wanna take control and build my dream to be a full-time Artist. If my story is apart of it... I wanna make it an awesome one. Ps - I too am a slow poke Klee... it's all good :-)

Thank you for this. It's a thing I seem to struggle with and Klee nailed it with why we don't share our story; fear. Fear of judgement, fear of giving too much away, fear of sounding like a dickhead...

For a long time I felt that my "story" had to mainly revolve on real life experiences of the variety dealing with hardship or anything else that may tug the heartstrings. Bc that's what I perceived to be "realistic" and more relatable. Truth is, my story in my drawings, even little sketches or concepts in my head for a future painting is happiness! I just like depicting happy things most of the time, especially of cute animals, that's what drives me. Thanks for this video, it was definitely insightful and taught me a lot :)

Sometimes my entire art statement for a piece is “I thought it would be really fun to paint this and wanted to see what would happen” 😊 Great advice. I just found your channel and love it. Also Klee is adorable and really funny ☺️

This video just made me add my own interpretation to the last painting I posted on Instagram. Two long paragraphs. It feels a bit scary putting yourself out there when you’re doing it, but rewarding and relieving when you’re done. The more open I am the braver I feel. Thank you for this advice 🙏🏽.

... runs off and follows Klee on Redbubble. Cool clock!!! Thank you for making me think. I've been fighting the inner demons of "why create? does it really help anyone?" I have loud people around me who constantly tell me art is "playing" and allude that if I don't make a lot of money from it it's just me getting out of housework. Some even say that art is basically just disposable since they can get it at the dollar store. I have been drawing, but not sharing. Been trying to learn more in order to be "good enough" but now I realize it doesn't "feel" good enough because I'm NOT thinking about why I'm drawing what I'm drawing. Not thinking about how it has meaning just by being made. Now, I'm going to spend some time this week just contemplating what my old art means to me and how to incorporate parts of my story. It also occurred to me, listening to you talk, that I've been trying to keep the deep darkness out of my work, but that makes it feel kind of superficial to me. And that maybe I should include it because the juxtaposition of light and dark might be the thing that gives it more meaning and tells the story.

Sharing my story through my art is actually my biggest obstacle with doing art and sharing it. Not because I wouldn't now my story but because I feel that it is so dark and ugly. And frankly it takes courage to share that when you are aware that it is what you are doing. I have been pondering that part a lot lately and I'm in awe with rap artists like Eminem and NF with how openly they share it all through their lyrics becaue there is nothing that they would be hiding. And I kind of wish that I would have that kind of courage with my own art.

I'm glad you cleared all that up. Thank you. As a young college student, I was so worried about having to share my story. Three of my professors and mentors were leaders in great political movements...then there was just 20-year-old me. Well, I had stories that I told visually. And years later two of those professors praised (and even purchased) my art because it told a special story. I hope that all artists advance their art and find the courage (which I haven't been able to totally do) to just say no to discussing their art if it isn't their comfort zone.

This is definitely something that a lot of artists need to hear. I think in part it comes from the emphasis on 'underpinning' etc in the art stock market world (and on art courses)...... Plus so many of us are worried that people will think we're boring etc.

11:10, shots fired at my ego for feeling like my stories aren't good enough! Thanks so much as I sit here trying to write an article for a magazine about my "small" adventures, and fearing it won't be good enough!

Hi Rafi and Klee. Great message you explained it perfectly. I always thought that a piece of art was entirely separate from the artist who created it, but when I look at my pieces I can see the connection to me. It doesn't have to be cryptic or complicated. I have a simple brain so my connections are simple. My story is a few simple words. Last week I finished a piece, a box with small bottles in it, all painted black. with the exception of a small bottle top which was red. My story is that the red top is me, because it doesn't fit in with the rest of it. It's the odd one out, just like me. I don't fit in, I am unique. Best wishes. ilona

Another great video, and topic guys! I think alot of people make the mistake of thinking of their art as a monologue, but really it's a dialogue. Like you said it's a form of communication. Just like a conversation, I may not choose to tell every detail of my life, but I may choose to tell certain things to show that I empathize with the person I'm speaking with in order to build a connection. I also don't think the use of the word "story" is a bad choice, although I understand why you added "Narrative". That isn't a bad description either. I guess I think of it as a "story" in the literal sense.. A story in a book doesn't even have to be true. It can be fantasy, or fiction. It doesn't really matter as long as it communicates something that connects with the reader. Usually an emotional connection of some kind. And often the best stories give enough information to communicate, but leave enough gaps to let the reader use their imagination.

"Once upon a time there was a little girl who wanted to create beauty." Still do. Still writing my story. Thanks for being a character in it!

Thanks Rafi and Kleeee for your lovely down to earth chats - you get me out of Firstthinginthemorninggloom and have got me painting again and over several blocks that you have covered in your rants (love them) ( the one about just get your stuff out there was a real help.) and talks - cannot thank you enough

Well spoken, so clear and forward! Absolutely helpful for somone who have a tendency to get stuck when explaining what my work is about. Thank you so much. You two are rockstars!!👍😃

I've had many of the same issues you discuss in my "story", family naysayers, the idea art is never more than a hobby even though it's what I've always wanted to do. Studied geo/biology (loved it all) but ended up in the jungle painting just the same. Found the love of my life, (you guys remind me a lot of us), had a couple great shows, then lost my wife to mental illness/suicide. I struggle expressing the beauty around me in such a vacuum, hard to know what to share, nothing brings out the awkward like my story of late....

Love this video, thank you Rafi!! You've definitely earned my subscription. This channel deserves a lot more recogniton from various kinds of people whether they believe they are artosts or not. Regardless, many people need to hear this!😊

If you put work out there, you are telling a story (regardless of your intent). Once that art leaves your studio, it begins a conversation with the viewer and ultimately it takes on whatever meaning the viewer finds there (and sometimes, no meaning at all). Artists do not get to control that, which is what leads to its wonder and impact. I once read that a poem is like a prayer, and I'd offer that the same can be said for visual art. If it is meaningful to you, chances are that others will find meaning there too. Our stories are not so different.

Beautiful video, had to share with my art teammates. Personally, I've struggled with what I want to "say" with my art. I have a hard time finding my true voice, and as a result, I've just been silent. I have gone adrift in my own narrative sea, as you say. I found this very inspirational. It's helped me find another puzzle piece in the maze that is the art journey. Really been loving your channel, thank you for everything you guys share.

I freaking love you guys. Thank you for putting these videos out.

I think another way to explain it is as the CONTEXT of it. If you just put out the word 'art' with no context for why its there, people are going to not understand and not connect to it. If you give the context of 'art' being just mindless school doodles its going to be received differently than if 'art' has the context of being Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel. The story/context exists to allow others to connect or to get perspective for the art being there and how much it matters to you or them. Like, lets take an image of a tree for example. In one context that image of a tree could simply be a guy sketching it one afternoon because he wanted to be better at drawing trees, but if we took that exact same image but it was created by a girl because that was her childhood backyard, it hits differently and means different things when a person understands where the art came from.

Thanks Rafi, this really resonated with me.

I have struggled with this for so long and never had it explained as well and as simply as this. Thank you so much 😍

Thank you so much for this! It's something I'm really struggling with. I make pretty things with beads...jewelry and Christmas ornaments mostly... and my motivation for doing so is mostly: It's so pretty! My inspiration: I saw a colour, and another colour and they looked pretty next to each other, so I made a thing! 😜 Beneath all that is living with a chronic illness that takes a lot of bandwidth in my life... I find it hard sometimes to share anything emotional because it so easily comes off as a sob-story... So I sort of freeze, because "ohh shiny" gets a bit repetitive, and "I make pretty things so that I don't sink into despair" ...is a bit dark...lol Listening to your videos / podcast is definitely helping me find my way in the right direction. So huge thank yous from me to you! (Both of you).

I swear Klee is so adorable! You aren’t bad either, Rafi. I don’t want you feeling left out 😆

Great job explaining. I am not sure that all artists want to share their story. So if they don't want to do it that is a choice. Don't let the boundaries of others pen you in. You are both appreciated and helpful.

Rafi don't apologize for the rant...I love your channel and message ❤. I am literally here for it 🤣😘

Thank you so much for this. 😃

I used to ask new staff to introduce themselves and tell the group something about themselves that most people wouldn't guess. For most people, it was a simple request. Some people reacted with horror, saying 'I can't tell these strangers that I was sexually abused' or some other deep dark secret. For some reason, they weren't able to differentiate between telling something about themselves that was a bit personal and divulging their entire life history.

I really loved how you explained this. Thank you. It's given me some new ideas about how I can use art to tell some of my story and I'm taking permission to do it. ;-)

Good message to hear on my Birthday. Thanks you two..

Thank you Rafi

Great video! I had to hear this! Thanks Rafi and Klee, with a warm hug going your way!

I love your rants! Yeah, I used to just post my art and was like 'there you go!'. But once I started explaining what it was actually about, I found that people really resonated with it more. Who would have thought, lol!! And yeah, it's about putting yourself out there, and talking about things that may be a bit embarrassing, but that's part of being an artist, right?

Thank you Rafi. The work you are putting in is impacting on all fronts. From the videos to your art. Thank you 🙏🏻

Huh, I never really thought of my art as a story in itself. Sure, I've made individual pieces that tell a story or made up a story on the spot when asked (which sometimes had my hs art teacher rolling her eyes, especially for surrealism). I really like this idea! I think maybe I have used the word "journey" instead of "story," but I really like this concept. It gives me cozy vibes for some reason. Like curling up with a blanket, a warm beverage, and listening to/reading a story. ^-^

I am who I am either in person or online, its too exhausting to try to be someone else just to try to fit into a certain narrative people have of artists and their creations. i am my 'story' as simple as that, the idea some people have of a 'story' is they have to make up some crazy idea to be an artist reminds me of in uni when we had to write up artist bios that made us sound like artists that made big coin and had some elaborate meaning behind their art when in reality most of us were eating noodles and trying to find money for a tube of paint. personally, admitting that makes the artist more approachable and relatable as a person which is a huge part about being an artist whether you sell your art or not. having a fake 'story' is not always the way to get that connection with people, be who you are in life and in your art, (and share as much as you want).

Your story might just be your motivation. For example what’s my motivation for making this animation that I just made.

Haha I'm literally holding the wheel of an 18 wheeler (earlier today) so I can get the linen canvas i need. And a big roll is expensive as fluk. Great message here thank you for the inspiration.

It's all about engaging and connecting 💖 My art speaks for itself and can make people look in wonder, but when I share how, what or why, they experience the piece all over again. And of course you don't have to do that with everyone you interact with, but be open if there is an opportunity to be genuine. It may just inspire someone ❤️

Totally get you Rafi and Klee!

I don't know if I'll find a way to use this advice, but it was interesting to listen to.

thanks lafi!!:) you always give me right insight and advise whenever i need right in timming !!×3×)/

I think this is why I resisted for many years writing an artist statement. I finally did it this month and I think it reflects me. What a challenge. I do agree that one’s presence on social media is also part of your artist story, which is why I try to be genuine. You can definitely tell when someone is just posting for likes and not sharing a part of their story and I know I don’t want to do that.

The art does speak for itself in that it expresses exactly what you were feeling and thinking and doing in that moment, but a bit of explanation can help other people more accurately understand it, since everyone’s brain works a little differently. I think people get defensive possibly out of anxiety, which can prevent them from being more personal with the way they present art. I know I fall into that trap.

brilliant

My creative works are definitely telling stories: the intent, messages, themes, progression, it’s all shown through my drawings and writings especially!

Omg, I struggle with this so much. I know people want to understand the artist behind the art. I know I'm telling stories about myself in everything I do. My whole style of work is about telling stories! But when I try to Tell My Story - whether it's a complex story about what a work means, or just "I like seagullsl" - I just stare at myself and ... blink. And I think "what the hell am I talking about?" For me the problem is not so much the idea of telling my story, but *how* to tell my story. I'm searching for a format for letting people in on my process or my thoughts or whatever the hell in a way that doesn't make me feel like I just picked my ears and asked if they'd like to see what I got.

Very well said! BTW keep saying, "tell your story" in your videos. Most of know what you mean.

I love your stories and rants. What's your opinions on heat press t-shirts? Please keep coming up with all your rants, they are so inspiring. At 42 years of age I am leaving my job to open a coffee shop with my little sister, and then focus om my art. Corporate life is killing my soul, body and mind. Your channel had a massive impact on me

One of the things I loved was Klee when she said she walked away from someone who was talking with her at a show and was feeling awkward. I had a pop up show last Saturday and this guy came up to me (after being rude and condescending to his wife) got all up in my grill showing me art that he bought and then added his paint to it😣😦😳. Then he told me how hard it is to b an artist as a living. I immediately said “really? Hmmm. I’ve not had that experience. I’m extremely successful making a living as an artist” (just wanted to F him). Then he takes his phone out to show me pictures of the canvases of “pre made art on canvas from like the max and how he painted over them himself to change them just a little bit. Then he started scrolling thru his phone through saying things like oh there’s my second house in Hawaii oh that’s my horse I own in Kentucky and just on and on and on and I heard Cleaves‘s voice in my head and she said just walk away you’re an artist you can just walk away and.I. Did. ! 😝 what a freeing feeling I’ve never felt like I could do that before in business and now that I am not my business I can do whatever I want so thank you for sharing that and the freedom that you instilled in me love you guys

I had a friend tell me that I should do more art about breast cancer and more inspirational cancer art because I'm a cancer survivor. But I dont think about cancer everyday, I don't feel like being a poster child artist and being a cancer survivor is not "my story". It was something I went through but it's not "me". I love painting what I love, nature and animals. It's hard to make that a story though. I find it hard to find words to explain my love of animals and nature. I think if I was better at finding the words I would be an author and not an artist 🤣😅. Basically I'm like, I painted this Lion because I think they are kickass animals and beautiful AF.....who doesn't like lions? Lol. But people try and read between the lines and are like did you paint this because of your courage and fearlessness and blah blah blah lol 😆

I used to live in Pensacola. Right behind Olive Baptist Church.

I sometimes buy art, not often, but sometimes. I don't assign a lot of importance to the story. I look at two things: is it nice to look at, and is there a particular skill/technique that was needed to get the piece to look that nice.

Rafi, the marketing abuse of story as an enrollment game is part of the rejection of the word by more genuine people. But there's a part that I feel has to do with vulnerability. When we do art we are using a visual communicator that does not usually involve talking (though it may involve words sometimes). So I'm pouring my voice in those colors and textures and I expect people to get it. Why would they not get it? If they don't, then they don't get me. Why should I then expose myself more? We need to put ourselves on the shoes of the viewer. When we see a piece we feel many things. Some are ours. Others are social. Others may be the artist's unique experience. Art is complex and multi-layered and NOT the way we are taught to communicate or even think. So we need some stewardship from the artist along the work of art, to guide us through the layers a little. We may need more than anything the artists' experience points as lines of connection that then may validate what we are feeling and explain more clearly our attraction. At this point, we feel complete. We begin to understand more in more familiar ways and then there is an intimacy with the piece and the artist that enriches our relationship with that art. Like you said at some point in a video, "I don't have art from people I don't know." Because in order to take it home we need to use the yarns of story to come closer and build intimacy and that is the last work of the artist before she sends her piece out into the world. If we as an artist become too resistant to do this, we need to ask ourselves what are we willing to give in order to share our art with the world? Do we have to overcome some personal fears or limitations? Then let's go do it! If not all that hard work has been for nothing. Frankly, I also want to know the person who takes that piece home. I want to engage in story sharing to get to know them and create a bond that will help them love that piece.

If I overthink whether this thing is the true me I wouldn’t put anything out there, I try to trust my intuition that this is me in this moment. I will sometimes have moments after creating a video where I decide it’s not actually what I want in world. I trust if I’m just being what feels right then it’s right . The over sharing thing is tricky because what is over sharing for one, won’t be for you. Figuring that out can be a process . Just expressing who you are naturally but without needing to justify or go into detail around history, we are just this present person anyway . However it is weird having videos from months ago, people can watch those and see it as present day, forgetting you’ve changed your views since that video was made. Finding balance and directing, deciding what sort of message to put out there, could easily over think it, but I guess subconsciously I am somewhat aware of it in background. I’m aware I need to be aware anyway but I don’t think to heavily on it or worry if it’s on brand. If it’s somewhat art related or perhaps part of my life that may show who I am and may Inform viewers where the art comes from. Oh he gets his inspiration from the outdoors and conversations he has had, And how creativity filtered it. It all paints a picture of how the art came to be :)

My story is Windows 10 crashed and had to be reinstalled on my main computer, I lost over 3,000 collected fonts including the one I used for the cover of my book. Although I had backed-up my font collection a couple years ago, THAT particular font was not in the back-up. I've spent the morning looking at over 500 pages of fonts online and have yet to find it. Yep. That's my story.

Lot of people need more context and a origin narative about your art. Artist statements can be difficult to craft. After being asked to make artist statment. That took me several days to fashion.,about my last series. It Took lots of thinking on my part , the venue where my latest work was featured they didn't even use it. I called them out about it. They did post it finally . Now I may still need to do more artist statments but it will be about the series and process . . now that I'm older perhaps I have a story.

I was very into the story aspect when I first started, but then my parents got interested and it felt weird to show my very personal (and sometimes sexual) story on platforms my family would see 😬 It's a silly reason, but I even changed a title of one of my piece to avoid explaining to my dad what it was related to. Now I'm getting into even deeper subjects like childhood trauma and I really don't know how I'll be posting it on social media without having to deal with a whole conversation with my parents 😅 It's such a strange thing how we're able to be vulnerable with strangers but we will hide/downplay important aspects of ourselves from close ones to not hurt them or in fear of getting hurt.

Well i feel like after watching this i need to Steer the ship :P Anyway i feel like whenever i hear Story or Narrative i do get it confused as just what the Art is trying to say and not what i am trying to convey. I hadn't thought well because i drew a piece about -insert subject here- that someone would interpret it differently than i had imagined it. Though thinking about artwork i had seen in the past i guarantee i thought about its interpretation differently to the person making for sure. *Laughs* I think this subject is very important for people to hear mainly in the control of Narrative of what you are producing and help people understand what you are actually trying to say. Ok i think i am done rambling have a wonderful day :D

"Do You Have Anything To Say?" "Thinking Ass MoFo" ::: requesting permission for these T-Shirts

My art is my soul speaking to yours.

Awesome! Lmao. U r always dead on. Perfect sense.

❤

timidly? break news! rafi usd to be timmy! lol mikey: but i will eat anything. the parts where klee is wearing the 80 joliet tee....she looks well-rested and refreshed :-)

Leg-a-sea ... sea of legs wow ! I laughed so much it hurts. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

Years ago, a popular singer being asked the motivation behind a hit song he had written. He laughed. "There was nothing behind it. I think I was even drunk." The interviewers face dropped. And that shallowness totally turned me off and I never listened to him again. LOL

I am a "thinking-a** m*f*! Damn Skippy!

I think Bob Ross could have been just as famous if only his afro (could have even been a wig) was filmed from behind, we never saw his face and he said all the delightful sayings he did that showed his genuine personality but, nothing terribly personal. It so happens today I was just thinking about Bob Ross and his story/his narrative before I watched this. Bob Ross is one of the most well known artists of our time. However, on an interview with workers who are overseeing his art since his passing they said they could not always distinguish a Bob Ross painting from one someone else who had painted a painting fallowing one of his tutorials. Bob is more recognized for his story/narrative than his art. I doubt he would have had as good of a career if he had not put himself out there and told his story/shared his personality. He got a bad perm that he wanted to change but his business people sad "No" do not change your hair is has become something you are recognized for, it is part of your brand. All those charming things he said were part of his story and people love him for it. They all contributed to his story and made his legacy live on long after his passing.

A lot of people talk about story as having to write a story for each painting instead of a description of the art. Having to write something compelling for each artwork is pretty difficult and exhausting IMO

Yes! KISS...keep it simple silly 😜 😘

I think it's more like "dropping breadcrumbs" so that others can follow you to your art. Just some clues. Hold back enough that there is some "mystique" (I swear so many of the famous have professional public relations they pay to tell the story for them, so the "artiste" may be perceived as deep and mysterious. In our modern age we MUST engage in self-promotion, yet still somehow remain modest and self-effacing. lol, I know, right?) So yeah, drop breadcrumbs that will tempt the onlooker to engage and appreciate your art.

Hi.. Is it enough to name your painting? When selling your painting online?

What is under that red bandana?

Good lucky with Redbubble I started one 7 weeks ago 128 designs watercolour paintings only sold to family and my TT followers 31k and 15 sales eekkk no organic RB traffic at all feeling a little sad iv been working so so hard TT is dying omg eeekkk

The artist somehow feels the need to explain what their work means to them and people either ignore it or make dumb comments ... these same people don't beg you to appreciate their bad taste in entertainment, activities, decor or color choices even it's cringy ... so why try so hard? Just hope the work connects with someone with good taste. But... How do I know who I am presenting to? I suppose I have to keep trying.

I don't know about this, seems to me if everything is a "story" then nothing is a "story". I do feel I've shared plenty but there's rarely much of a response.

I think people who live really far north can wake up in the morning and see the sun set. Before it gets dark for six months.

Art rhymes with fart 🤣❤