This may be a controversial post but I'm gonna put it out there anyway. This morning I had an interesting conversation with an Artist friend about Artists alienating Artists! Hmmm you know I have to pipe in here. Unfortunately, like any other interest Art can have it's cliques too. I learned that the hard way living in an area where I felt it was just too much work to find acceptance of my Art style. Once I was introduced to a room of artists and not one acknowledged me or even smiled. I've heard things like "we are more focused on Fine Art here (which to me translated to "aaaah NO! Your stuff is too damn colorful LOL") or "we don't think your style of Art will fit in....hmmmm....but...have you tried...." now that's ok, until you hear it regularly and realize that there are ranks and if you are not brought into the fold by inner rankers, you're not getting in. I'm not saying 100% is like that, but like I said, Art can have it's cliques too. In the beginning I took it very personally and decided not to even try but rather go out there on the internet which I have to admit, has brought me more recognition, acceptance and connections that I ever had in seven years of living in the same town.
When I started the Facebook page and the Blog one of the main reasons was because I'm not a clique person. I run from cliques and always have. I believe Art is a gift to be shared with all and use those mediums to connect lots of people to each other and give an outlet to those who want it.
I've met many interesting and fascinating people on my Journey. I've also learned that Artists can be just as fickle as anyone else. That's reality. I've even met Artists that can't handle more than one friend at a time. More than most, we tend to live in our own worlds and when we step outside we are surprised and even shocked! LOL...when I say we I include me!
How do you handle feeling excluded? Know this, being an Artist puts you in a class of your own! You are unique and your brain functions in a whole different way. You see color, art, pretty little pictures and these are the things you see most of the time, even if in your head. Blending in doesn't always work. And you shouldn't take it personally if it doesn't.
There are things you can do to feel better about the whole damn thing LOL. Participate in things that bring a variety of people, people who appreciate unique, like Faires and Art Shows. Have your own Art events. Even a small gathering or Art Party can bring you lots of joy and surround you with people who appreciate you and your unique Talents. And this one you know too well, Choose your friends wisely. That goes without saying but also should be remembered when looking outside for friends of semi-like mind :-)
Tell yourself everyday..."I AIN'T AFRAID OF NO GHOST!" :-)
Now go out there and do what you do, in color, and leave the Cliques to those who need them. I love everybody, but also recognize that Cliques can be damaging to the spirit of those who "don't fit in" or "don't play well with others (in a click!)" Your Art is Your Clique!
Have a Colorful Day! Rant over! LOL Hugs!
