A letter to artist...

Dear artists and to those who love artists,

This is for everyone who is pursuing art either as a life passion, a hobby, a practice, or one who simply lights up each time they are in the presence of creativity. This is for the actors, musicians, singers, rappers, visual artists, dancers, writers, and for all of those that simply redefine what it means to have a creative spirit. This is for the partners, spouses, family members, and friends of artists. This is a reminder as the world feels cold and dark. Yes, your art not only matters but it is necessary especially today. 

"It is what you don't write that frequently gives what you do write its power." Toni Morrison

No matter what calamity the world faces, no matter the ugliness there is always art to get us to the other side, a better day, a better environment. Whether it is reimagining a better world that is a bit more honest, a bit more kinder, a bit more courageous. Whether it be via imaginative fiction or edifying non-fiction, both can teach us what is possible and what we should leave behind. 

Say YES to making art. No matter if it is personal, political, or simply for the joy of it. If you have always wanted to write that poem, sing for your friends, or draw, this is your time to do just that. Not for applause or accolades but because art can bring a smile to your face that reaches down all the way to your soul. 

For those who are fulfilling their own  professional artistic practice and experiencing either feast or famine know that you are on the right path. Be flexible but never doubt that your journey is yours and yours alone. Balance is key. Mental, financial, physical, and spiritual. Continue to surround yourself with positivity but never be too stubborn to pivot if needed or ask for help. This is a business and you are a social impact business which means you and your work should be valued and respected. But, this also requires some tools to be in place (each year) such as accounting, professional support (agents, publicists, editors, producers, fiscal sponsors), friends (who understand and honor this practice), and the ongoing practicing and fine tuning of your craft (woodworking). Working together to uplift and expand the artistic practice is very, very vital especially for artists of color (stop being a silo - find folks you can trust - build a community). 

And for those who are considering a path as a professional artist, know when to stop asking questions and planning, and when to leap. Realizing and recognizing that the leap will sometimes look impossible and that is when faith enters. Faith is seeing and believing the path to the possible exists in what appears to be impossible. Imagine if more of us practiced this - artists and not-artists.

This is the year of yes. This is the year of being focused enough to know when you should say yes, and when you should walk away. As you develop in wisdom, this becomes very important in order to not be overwhelmed or exhausted. Remember, balance is key. Balance gives you power. Balance brings clarity of mind. An empty vessel is of no use and needs to be replenished, regularly.

Now go out and make art. Support art. Invite art into your life. And watch the light slowly transform these long nights into joyful, thoughtful, and transformative experiences. Making the world a bit easier to be in as we navigate the insanity, the chaos, the good, and the light.