We have all heard the quote “Life is a Journey” and depending on who said it, and how often you’ve heard it, will define how you react to it. Everything we learn in life has challenges. Some we resolve quickly, others not so quickly and some you may never overcome. It is our nature to fear failure in spite of knowing it is part of the process called learning. We learn by doing. If we accept failure as a natural part of the learning process, we take away the fear. Being fearless doesn’t mean you jump in blindly, it allows you to try. This can apply to many things in life but today it is about art.
I have had the pleasure of teaching many people over the years and have concluded that the interpretation of art and its value can be very simple or complex, and can change in a heartbeat. I remember being with a group of art students in a gallery setting while they looked at a collection of paintings that included some famous Group of Seven pieces when the issue of worth versus quality came up. After having a brief conversation they had concluded that the setting, name of the artist and age period of the painting meant it had value. In an effort to open up their minds on the true value of art, I had them gather around as I reached into my bag and pulled out a childlike drawing of a house and a sun and a stick person gesture of a little girl and her mom. I held it beside the painting on the wall and asked, “Is this art, is it good art, and does it have any value?” After another brief discussion, I changed the setting. “Now imagine you’re the mom, and it was the first drawing your daughter had ever done for you, and it was served with an “I love you mommy.” This little drawing to this mom has just become the most beautiful and most valuable painting on the planet. Enjoy your failures, they will teach you to become a better artist.
Initial Sketch 
Finished Painting
Lorne