Can an introvert succeed in a brash loud world?
Now. It is my time. Finally. My current mantra is:
‘Imagine what it would be like if you could not fail.’
I have always wanted to create and sell my artwork, but I have never made the time, or had the finances to do it before. I have made myself some space to do it now. I have a physical space to work in and I have a mental space, as I have reduced my other work commitments to 3 days a week. My studio is in Green Hill Arts, Moretonhampstead and now I have a brand new website.
I wanted to study art in school but I was I was encouraged towards sciences and maths. I became more academic and ended up studying Architecture. These studies enhanced my joy in the world around me and my joy in art and the history of art, but I never really wanted to design buildings. I prefer nature and landscape to urban sprawl. But I can’t go back and re-do things, so I move forward instead.
I wonder some days if I can overcome my nature and be successful – this is why I need that mantra. I am by nature an introvert, trying to succeed in a world supporting extroverts. I read a great book recently – ‘Quiet’ by Susan Cain. It is worth a read. It reminded me that I have quiet strengths that I can draw upon for my new venture. I enjoy being alone , working in the studio, or out sketching. I enjoy listening and reflecting which helps me come up with new ideas and understand what is needed for a commission. Plus COVID so far has been easy for me – I like hiding away.
I still have to fight my way over some internal obstacles, as I dread the spot-light beam of self promotion. I am trying to find ways to interact more on social media, but this is definitely a work in progress. I am giving myself permission to be me, which means I am quiet and reflective. I don’t want to wear the pseudo-extrovert suit, that I have uncomfortably inhabited in the past.
I have just completed a year long course with the St Ives School of Painting. Their Porthmeor programme has been a huge encouragement for me, supporting my development and pushing and extending my creativity. I am now taking what seems like a huge step out in to the unknown by developing my own business. Also my art often feels like a reflection of my hidden inner self, so I am revealing more perhaps than is comfortable. (Also my part time job is for a water company and I seem to love including water in my art work – seems appropriate.)
My ongoing goal is to keep being honest, both through my work and my interaction with the world. I will be quietly reflecting how to do this, if you see me. I’ll be the quiet one sketching in the corner or looking for new collage materials in my local Scrapstore.
Any other introverts out there with tips on how to succeed in an honest way?
You can find Green Hill Studios website here
