The Artist: A label or freedom?

It took me 33 years to come to terms with being an artist. Giving myself any kind of label, especially that particular one, felt far too heavy of a responsibility on my being. It felt like a burden at the time. I spent many years trying to fit myself into a 'normal' box, while simultaneously wondering if I exist to create or create to exist. What does it all mean to me? And how should I live my life as a result?

After going round the houses, I finally surrendered to the simple truth that is, and accepted that at my core, I am an artist. Creating makes me feel good and happy. And understanding that feeling was very important.

Labels for me always feel weighty. It's like they carry an invisible baggage that we have to lug around. But I've come to realise that embracing the artist within was probably the biggest and most beautiful present I could have given myself. I don't have to be confined to societal expectations or fit into a predetermined mould. I can simply be me, and do whatever unhinged shit I want! Bloody brilliant.

For so long, I resisted, but I now understand that creating is an essential part of who I am, it's a fundamental aspect of my very being. When I create, I feel alive. I feel connected to something greater than myself. I feel directly connected to source. I've questioned the meaning of existence and pondered the role of creation in my life. It's been a journey full of twists and turns for many years now, and many years to come I’m sure.

As an artist, I have the incredible power to shape my own reality and to create my own inner and outer world. "Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures" reminds me that I have the power to infuse my creations with my own truth, my own perspective, and my own unique flavour.

So, I let go of any burdens or expectations that come with the label of an artist. Instead, I'm embracing the lightness that comes with being true to myself and celebrate the simple nature of creating and allow it bring me happiness, and a deep connection with my own authenticity. I may have taken a roundabout route to this realisation, but I did get there in the end.

I've arrived at a place where being ‘an artist’ feels right and embraced this newfound freedom.

I will keep creating, keep exploring, and keep embracing the beauty of my artistic journey. So I go forth with courage, passion, and a light heart, letting my artistic spirit soar unburdened and filled with the sheer dee-light of self-expression.

And for anyone that needs to hear it, it's never too late to embody the artist within.

One Love

Dee