The Creative Life - Barbara Trovillo

Last week I picked up paintings that were in an exhibition in a gallery in Richmond. This particular gallery exhibits Artwork that inspires and intimidates me. The caliber of work is amazing! I always feel like rushing back to my studio to get to work again after being there.

In the past, I would feel bad about the fact that my paintings did not sell during this show. I have a different perspective now. I have been at this long enough to know there is a reason when there is no sale:

1. Are there Corrections needed?  Actually, in this case, one of the paintings needed some serious corrections which I did not see until it was hanging on the gallery wall!

Does the composition need tweaking? Are the values right? Are there small changes that will make a big difference? Is the framing clean and neat?

2. Maybe the right person has not seen it yet?

Each painting is inspired by a moment in time. Something moved me to record the moment. It was an experience that evoked an emotion or amused me. The story is communicated in the painting. That feeling will resonate with someone when the right person looks at it.

It's good to have a thicker skin and an open mind in this business. Art is very subjective. We are not everyone's cup of tea. I also recognize that I am still learning and must be open to constructive criticism when it comes my way.

I am grateful to those of you for whom I am your cup of tea. Thank you. It has been a productive year so far. I am grateful for the opportunities to show the work and also for the great response to the work. 

What a blessing it is to be able to do the thing I love!

I would encourage you to not be discouraged by what seems to be rejection. It happens to all of us and if we are smart, we will learn from it. Just keep going. 

Happy Creating