Growing With Art Commissions Explained
Many artists have stated that they do not like commissions and would rather paint what they like. Although I do enjoy painting animals and seascapes, I’m always honored when someone entrusts me to create something special and memorable for them. Also, I find that I am growing with art commissions because it pushes me beyond my current limits and helps me grow as an artist. Below is an example of some of the commissions I’ve completed over the years.
Art Helps the Mind-Body Connection
There is a lot to be said about the mind-body connection. Creating art is proof. For example, although I thought I was calm, upon attempting a new illustration, but noticed my hands were unsteady. Since I’ve been out of my studio for a few months due to a severe illness with my husband, getting back to my art is just what I needed to help calm my system after the stress.
Learning to calm the mind and a little practice corrects the unsteady hands. Taking slow deep breaths and practicing sketches helps steady the mind and hand. Once you let go and relax, your lines become smoother and more accurate.
For this reason, I encourage everyone to practice drawing for at least 5-10 minutes a day. The benefits you gain from this daily practice are:
It is a great way to keep your stress levels in check.
- It is a great way to keep your stress levels in check.
- It causes you to be present because your subject requires focus.
- You gain a sense of accomplishment from your drawing
When You are in a Bad Place
Let’s face it. Life isn’t always perfect. We are faced with challenges and losses that can be very difficult to navigate at times.
Although you can always draw or scribble out your emotions, some of us can’t get there during difficult times. I for one couldn’t touch my art while my husband was fighting for his life. It’s perfectly ok okay when you feel like this.
Coping with Life Challenges
You may notice that I’m passionate about persevering through difficulties. As a matter of fact, I’m so passionate about it that I wrote a self-help memoir, titled My Wild Life, in an effort to encourage others. Finding a way to cope with different challenges is healthy. Here are more ideas:
- Focus on the small positives. This can be small improvements, a sunrise, sunset, getting a good parking place, or anything that is positive. This is what carried me through.
- Write your feelings down in a journal
- Talk to a trusted friend
- Go for a walk
- Get in touch with nature where it is quiet and nurturing
- Self-care such as a bubble bath, reading, sitting on the porch, spending time with animals, meditating, or 10 minutes of quiet time
- Ask friends and neighbors for help. This can be a huge help in difficult times
- Meditating on a soothing piece of art
Mindful Art Instruction
I’m strongly considering doing some mindful art instruction to help others express their feelings and destress, if you are interested, please sign up for my e-mail list to ensure you stay informed. You can find it by clicking here: Stay Updated
Inquire About Commissioning Me
Would you or someone you know like to have your very own special painting created? Feel free to contact me by clicking here: Contact Me
Thank you for reading and feel free to share this.
Best Wishes,
Tina Adams Stoffel
