Being consistent is a real challenge for me. I get bored with routine and rules and just want to buck the system. You just ask my kids, I’m sure they’d say that mum makes the rules and doesn’t stick to them, or she just ‘plain old’ forgets them….. and they know they can bend me very easily. Certainly doesn’t make mothering an easy job when I’m the one wanting to break all the rules.
This relates to my biz too…I’ve been doing loads of research lately on branding. And I’m aware that I’m really drawn to biz’s that have strong identity, strong consistency. That’s where I want to be. But how do I do that if I feel challenged by being consistent? What comes across if I’m not consistent is a scattering of STUFF. Not a pretty sight. And explains why I have never wanted to settled down into one artsy medium.
I have learnt the hard way in the past that the only true freedom is freedom within the boundaries. And funny enough consistency brings with it its own freedom. It’s a different sort of freedom…one where I know how far I can push the boundaries, a safe freedom where I know that its not going to back fire in my face.
So as challenging as it is, I am learning to embrace consistency and rhythm and my own personal rules…this feels like a tough one, but I know it shall have its rewards…although I’m not sure if the kids will agree on this one!
6 comments:
If you can do it, I can do it. I think it's going to be quite a processs though. And I've got a lot of culling to do first. Would love you to lead the way!
ohh...Nic, don't be too hard on yourself... if you don't break the rules in art you don't progress & no wonder you get bored with the same medium & style... it's call evolution... I always think 'Rules are made to be broken'... Plus I just say it is the 'artist within' that makes us the way we are... yes you know your boundries & you try to stay within but don't become a slave to boundries & the boring life...
BTW kids adapt & half the time they turn out just like mum & really that's not a bad thing... well that's how I feel when I look at my kids....
Thanks Bethel...its not coming from a place of beating myself up, just some healthy self observation.
this rings so true for me dear nic, being consistent is such a stuggle for me, i love the randomness of mixed media, eagerly watching you shine xx
I think you can brand yourself and leave yourself open to flexibility. Yes, you should have a consistent "look" for things: a logo, that is on your business card, your blog, your letterhead, invoices and other paperwork. But you can be broad in what you call yourself. I made a conscious decision to call myself "Blue Sand Studio," because I wanted to be open to many things: jewelry artist, painter, collage artist, teacher, writer, embracer of other artists. I think whatever I may do can fall under that "umbrella" name. You can be consistent, but also be flexible.
i hear you!!!
a constant struggle.
love your art and your fun blog :)
xo
Post a Comment