an ongoing journal of Canadian artist Helen Utsal

It takes courage and persistence to develop a career in any of the arts, and I see the artists at Art Alchemy Studio show their mettle everyday.

Being an artist is not a job that ends at 5 o clock. It is a way of life that has no road map or universal formula. Upon graduating from art school, you cannot take your degree to an organization, apply for a job and start working. Artists are entrepreneurs; different paths and life experiences lead them to this fulfilling and sometimes difficult life. The fun days spent in the studio drawing and painting are balanced with time spent on the computer reaching out to potential galleries, and buyers, keeping websites current and producing blogs, newsletters, social media posts, planning exhibitions and events. It is fulfilling to create something beautiful out of simple materials, and gratifying when others appreciate your efforts and buy your work.  It helps drive you on to make new paintings and try harder to capture your vision. The security others seek and maintain in their lives is not usually something artists can count on. Despite this, they persevere, knowing that they are honouring something in their own spirit that seeks realization, that is more important than following the societal norms. Artists are outliers. In these times when economies are uncertain, it feels even more daring to choose to follow your heart.

It feels simple and foolish to want to make people smile, feel happy and maybe dream a little. The pleasure people feel when they look at art is important in their lives. It is a reprieve from reality, a little lift for their spirit. Sometimes the art reminds them of connection they have to other people, or to the earth. Hopefully it makes them feel, sometimes it makes them think. While some think that art needs to demand struggle and express angst, I disagree. If it was easy to feel happiness more people would be happy. I want to make art that brings joy and serenity to peoples lives. Reality is a already a struggle for many. I hope that my paintings help people step out of reality for a moment and feel something grounding and joyful. Happy creating all you courageous artistic spirits.

For those of you who help us by supporting us, buying our work, and attending art events, thank you. Next time you are viewing original art I hope you feel confident to just like it or not. Don't apologise for not knowing anything about art. Ask questions, let yourself feel and discover a new way of seeing.