The Journey to Completing Art: A Personal Reflection on Public Viewing

Introduction to the Art Journey

Art is a deeply personal expression, yet the question often lingers: is it ever truly complete? Does an artwork ever feel ready for public viewing without overwhelming pressure? This article explores my personal journey and reflections on this topic, drawing from experiences in art classes and workshops, as well as insights gained from creative endeavors and the process of letting go of perfectionism.

Understanding Art Critique and Perfectionism

Art is an inherently subjective medium, and like many artists, I've grappled with the critique and perfectionism. The book The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron provided invaluable insights on navigating these challenges. Cameron beautifully addresses the pressures that can stifle creativity, emphasizing the importance of embracing the creative process over seeking perfection. This approach has been instrumental in my artistic development.

My Artistic Journey

My artistic journey began in high school with graphic design classes, where I learned the basics of fine art. This foundation was further developed at the Art Students League in New York City. After a few years working at a party decorating vendor, I took a leap of creativity and covered my entire bike in MetroCards, transforming it into an art installation. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and my creation even garnered media attention. Reflecting on this project, I initially dismissed it as pedestrian compared to traditional oil painting techniques, but it resonated on a deeper, metaphorical level. The idea of "upcycling" a mode of transportation with another transportation method was a powerful statement on the value of found materials and reimagining waste.

Evolution of Artistic Values

Following this project, I began creating costumes from MetroCards for various NYC parades, gaining more press and positive feedback. My artistic goals evolved from the desire to have a painting displayed in a major museum to a focus on connecting with people on an emotional level through my art. This shift in perspective allowed me to see value in diverse forms of artistic expression, from large-scale installations to smaller, more personal pieces that bring joy to others. My artwork now reaches a global audience, and it is collected and displayed with honor in ordinary people's homes around the world.

Exploring the Value of Found Materials

MetroCards, as a medium, embody the concept of reimagining everyday objects. They are found materials that many people discard, which I see as a challenge to question the value placed on these artifacts in our society. The MetroCard project invites viewers to reflect on the worth of discarded objects, whether through recycling them, giving them away, or collecting and cherishing them as art.

Letting Go of Perfectionism and Embracing Creativity

In my journey, I've learned that it's crucial to let go of the pursuit of perfection and productivity. The book The Artist's Way taught me to focus on the act of creating rather than the outcome. By making so much art, I learned to prioritize presence, interaction, and acceptance of feedback. One of my projects involved creating paper hats for a block party called "Easter Parade," where people wore DIY hats and participated in a creative celebration. This experience reinforced the idea that art is often more about the process and sharing the creative experience than achieving a perfect finish.

Conclusion

Art is a lifelong journey that often leaves us questioning its completeness and worth. My story is a testament to the power of personal growth, the acceptance of imperfection, and the joy of creating art that connects with others. By embracing these principles, we can find fulfillment in our artistic endeavors and share that joy with the world without the pressure of perfection or judgment.

This exploration of my artistic journey not only reflects on the process of creating art but also highlights the importance of connecting with others through art. It serves as a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places and that the value of an artwork lies not just in its technique or beauty but in its ability to resonate and inspire.