The Art of Courage; Building Confidence as an Artist
Hey Artists, :) I'm so glad you're here!
Why is that one brushstroke, that one color choice or that little blue arrow marked "send" so intimidating? We've got this right, or do we? Why does it sometimes feel like each move is difficult with that nagging little voice of second guessing and self-doubt always entering the room mandating our need for courage?
Courage is the one thing we must have but is also something so hard to inherently feel equipped with, especially when we make the choice to show up as ourselves and be seen.
What if we could cultivate it, build it, and practice it as an element of growth just like we do with any other skill we build for our art practice as part of our journey?
What is Courage?
According to the dictionary "courage is a quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear".
As artists, we often find ourselves in vulnerable positions which feel difficult. We share our work representing our innermost thoughts and experiences with the world. We lay down our hearts, our hopes and our dreams on canvas.
It takes a great deal of courage to put our work out there and to continuously push our creative boundaries. To so without fear? ...yikes!
To think of courage being the total absence of fear doesn't quite sit right with me, especially as an artist and coach. Seriously... how many people would ever move forward if they waited until they had zero fear?
I would still be hiding in my first basement studio today and not here with you ;) kind of kidding but not really!
Maybe courage doesn't have to be the absence of fear; but instead, the willingness to act despite it.
Now we are getting somewhere! Move over fear, we know you're there, but you will not be in control. Right?! Now we simply have to act. Action is 80% of the battle is it not? Here is how we can build that courage we need and take action!
Steps to Cultivate Courage
1. Acknowledge Your Fears
The first step to building courage is recognizing what holds you back. Is it the fear of criticism, rejection, or failure? By acknowledging these fears, you can start to confront and manage them.
2. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Start with small steps to build your confidence. Share a sketch on social media or submit a piece to a local exhibition. Each small success will reinforce your courage and make the next step easier.
3. Build a Support Network
Surround yourself with people who support your artistic journey. Fellow artists, mentors, or supportive friends can offer constructive feedback, encouragement, and perspective.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. Understand that setbacks and criticism are part of the growth process. Instead of viewing them as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and improve.
Monthly Color Palette: Symbolism of Red and Turquoise
When it comes to colors, red and turquoise carry powerful meanings
- Red symbolizes courage, passion, and action. It embodies the strength and energy needed to overcome fears and take bold steps forward.
- Turquoise represents clarity, calm, and emotional balance. It reminds us to stay composed and mindful, even when facing challenging situations.
By incorporating these colors into your art, you can visually reinforce the themes of courage and resilience.
Color Palette in Your Art
Incorporate the red and turquoise palette into your works to symbolize courage:
- Painting Exercises: Create abstract paintings using primarily red and turquoise. Focus on how these colors interact and balance each other.
- Mixed Media: Combine red and turquoise textiles, papers, and paints to explore different textures and meanings within your pieces.
Writing Prompts
Prompt 1: Reflect on 
Courage
Write a short essay or poem about a time when you needed to summon great courage. How did the experience shape you?
Prompt 2: Describe Your Fear
Detail a fear you have as an artist. What steps could you take to confront and overcome it? How would red and turquoise colors play a role in this narrative?
Prompt 3: Visualizing Success
Imagine your art being praised on a grand stage. Describe the scene, focusing on the colors and emotions you envision. How does the red symbolize your boldness and turquoise your calm?
Sketchbook Challenges
Why use a sketchbook? What are they for and not for? Here is one I recommend!
- Sketchbooks are a wonderful way to explore and find yourself as an artist because they remove a ton of pressure, and they keep things affordable.
- They allow you to play, experiment, and record your own decisions of what is right for you without the weight of "ruining" a canvas or needing a lot of room for storage.
- They are not a place where your work needs to always be pretty or precious.
- They do not need to be shared publicly, and they most certainty need no judgment.
Challenge 1: Courageous Self-Portrait
Create a self-portrait using red and turquoise. Let red highlight areas where you feel strong and courageous, and turquoise where you seek balance and calm.
Challenge 2: Fear to Strength Transformation
Illustrate a scenario where you turn fear into strength. Use red to depict the initial fear and turquoise to show the transformation into confidence.
Challenge 3: Emotion in Color
Draw a series of quick sketches expressing various emotions tied to courage, using only red and turquoise. Experiment with how these colors convey different feelings.
Building courage as an artist is an ongoing process, one that involves embracing vulnerability and trusting in your creative voice. By taking small steps, seeking support, practicing self-compassion, and reflecting on your journey, you can develop the courage to show up and be seen. Remember, your art has the power to inspire, provoke, and transform - and it all begins with the bravery to share it.
Stay courageous and keep creating, using the power of red and turquoise to drive your artistic journey forward!
Lots of Love,
~Sabrina
Artist's Community
Want to share your own art, have questions, or gain the support of a supportive group of people who "get it"? Come join us in a private art community for beginners to experienced artists, The Artists Journey - Imagine, Learn, and Create!
