If you saw my post the other day, Why Not Art, I told you that I have a favorite piece of art that I made and that the canvas board warped, making it not sellable. I was a bit nervous to make more and put them out into the world.

Why? Because art that we love is all about vulnernability, you know? The vulnerability of creating something close to our heart space, the something that we, as artists, love. Then, sticking it out in front of the eyes of the world. How will it be perceived? Will anyone see the beauty of the piece as we see it? Will it get a glance even?

Well, Friday, I did make two more versions of that favorite piece. As I worked on them, I felt my heart give way to the “expected outcome” and turn to inner self expression instead. And, really, isn’t that what art is all about? Essentially, talking through mediums, whether with a paintbrush, some clay, words on paper, a camera, etc, or a song?

I took those two pieces to the craft fair yesterday. And, I still have them, BUT two incredible things happened:

1. I TOOK THEM. (Incredibly brave move, I thought!)
2. I overheard a gal mention to her friend that the brunette one reminded her of an angel piece she’d once seen or bought. An angel piece??? Hello! I LOVE angels. No higher compliment than that!

So, here they are, with the original piece at the bottom.

So, what’s the big deal with this piece? What do I see in it that probably no one else does? It’s a piece about home. An old home, or a new one. Seeing it from afar or up close. It’s a grandparent’s home that was pushed under in an Iowa cornfield, or a childhood home that sold to someone else. Or maybe it’s a home that someone hasn’t quite gotten yet. And, a field and a sky and flowers. It’s a home of possibilities, of memories, of things to come.

When I was making it I listened to that Miranda Lambert song, “The House that Built Me,’ and even though I’ve heard it many times, I still can’t get through it without tears. And, that to me, is art.

Last year I read a book about vulnerability and whole hearted living that really touched my soul. I think it really helped bring my art to light. It’s called, “The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are.” by Brene Brown.

Here’s to creating what we love in art and letting the world see it, even if we are afraid. Because, really, it may be the exact thing someone needs to see, whether they buy it or not.

Thanks for spending part of your day reading this. Means a lot!

Jessica