How Hosting A Workshop Improved My Confidence As An Artist
Us artists and creatives, we are bound together by a few personality traits. Often introverted, we like our comfort zones and are at our happiest in our art spaces, left to our own devices to create and express how we see the world.
I know I’m generalising here, and I am full of admiration for those that thrive surrounded by others!
After some enquiries as to whether I teach, it seemed that workshops needed to become part of what I offer to people, and that sharing my process is an act of generosity, an integral aspect of my values.
Leap, and the net will appear - John Burroughs
At the initial thought of hosting a workshop the dreaded imposter syndrome kicked in full swing. ‘What do you know about art?’ ‘You’ve never taught before, what makes you think you can?’ ‘Your art isn’t good enough’ etc etc etc
I think it took me 6 months of shunning the idea before deciding to be brave and take the plunge.
Here’s what I realised after my first art workshop.
That what you put out, you attract. My style of work and process appealed to personalities like my own!
By being authentic, open and honest is not only a brave thing but also appreciated by your guests. Many attend workshops solo and are dealing with a certain amount of nervousness themselves.
Your skills are unique to you – these people WANT to learn and you are presenting them with a new way of looking at things.
If you are passionate and excited about your work, it is contagious.
It’s not about you, what you are providing is a gift, that you must be generous in sharing your knowledge, it is your duty as a creative!
In conclusion, I needed to feel the F.E.A.R. (false evidence appearing real) and do it anyway.
Do you have any workshop experiences you want to share? Tell me the highs and lows below!
