AM I AN ARTIST OR NOT?

I paint when inspired, without thinking whether the end product will sell or not.  But sometimes, one needs some kind of validation from others, either through a sale, an invitation to exhibit, or some positive feedback to carry on.  Not that I would stop, though. 

So, if I sell, get an inquiry about a painting, or receive compliments about my art, something close to elation fills my spirits.  And I continue doing what I love, knowing that some people do appreciate my kind of art.

VALIDATION?

An artist needs some kind of validation about her or his art - whether it be an acceptance in a juried exhibition, a sale, a positive critique or even a constructive one.  I liken it to watering a plant for sustenance.  So when several rejections come my way, I wilt until I "self-medicate" or the next feeding comes.  I sometimes threaten to give up painting but I love it too much to do so.