How to Get Clear on What Your Art Means to You with This Simple Exercise

Art is transformative. It's not 2 + 2 = 4. It works like the sea. It changes geography through its constant and relentless movement, just the way plants and water shape the world. Sean Scully, Painter

I decided January’s theme, instead of making resolutions to change ourselves, is to focus on what we did right in 2019.

What does that have to do with the quote above? Especially since it’s all about change?

One of the things that went right in my life in 2019 was realizing the pivotal, vital and essential role art plays in leading profound culture shifts.

In fact, art and artists show us what needs to change before most of us are aware we even need it.

This isn’t a new thought. The depth of my understanding of this is what’s new to me.

From this realization came a deeper comprehension of my purpose: to be the midwife, backstop, tough lover of artists. I want you to have a financially stable life, help you find the people who need your work, and attract them, so you can get your work into the world and show us the way.

It’s taken me years to get this clear about my purpose. In January 2021 I hope I’m even clearer about it. It’s lifelong work.

The "so that what" method

If you’re not sure how to get closer to your purpose (or at least start dating it casually), here's a simple method to figure it out.

1.    Say the first thing that comes to mind about why you do your art. 

2.    Then ask the question, “So that what?”

3.    Keep going until you hit a “so that what” that sounds like a bell chime in your soul.

Like this:

“I make photographs so people can see how beautiful the desert is.”

So that what?

“So people can understand that deserts aren’t deserts. That they are habitats worth noticing, enjoying and protecting.”

So that what?

"Deserts are valued and preserved."

You could go longer and deeper; that’s the fun of this process. But maybe helping people value and preserve the desert is a great place to start. (Thanks, @lajphotos).

Did you make a deeper relationship with the purpose of your art in 2019?

If you need help, book a 15-minute chat with me.

If you want to incorporate what went right in 2019 into your business/practice in 2020, I am running a six-week workshop starting on January 22nd to help you do that. Click here for more information, or book a free chat to see if the workshop is right for you.