“Compared to them, I’m fantastic. Some have no job, can’t find work, don’t have their health.” Kovensky made a good point. When it came down to it, sufficiently obligated or not, the ability to use our devices was praiseworthy enough. Yet the choices before us leave us divided: what’s the best I can do?
London delivered a stellar performance at last week’s ArtBattle, a competition that pits artists against each other and the clock. With 20 minutes to paint, the first round he claimed with his first palette, anxiety capitalizing his disposition and the top aspect of the piece.
The fascinating aspect of the night, more than the art, were the artists themselves.
Some of the usual suspects for this venue met newcomers and fans alike that night. Narvicto, one local talent, displays a unique talent for punchy cartoons. Reminiscent of big colorful fills around hoods in Boston, Narvicto left an impression strong enough to nab second place and qualify for the following round.
Elton, accompanied by his younger brother who also competed, took first with a symbolism he translated expertly. His simple approach earned the acknowledgment of the audience despite it puzzling me. How did something I found unoriginal please others enough to bid and own?
In response to my constructive criticism, Elton’s piece replied, execution.
I rooted for London and Narvicto which left me conflicted, but not more than myself about how to move forward. I saw London accept second place humbly and receive counsel in the form of others’ stories at the end of the night.
I spoke with other artists at various points on their paths. The all expressed similar sentiments. There persistently exists a joy to create and share. Confidence is key, and many characters that night displayed theirs, but the atmosphere gave off one feeling.
Everyone enjoyed the art of expression first.
Art does share something more inexplicable. I heard, maybe from monks. Failure is acceptable. There are two mistakes on the way to mastery: stopping and not going all the way. Giving up is not. They seem to agree. I do too, though I can’t always see the big picture.
Fortunately, immersion helps with language retention. I have the perspective to align incentives with most of my work, so what I love becomes what I do. Many in my life insist you work first, then do what you love. That choice disagrees with me.
Telling stories may not be good work. That’s alright. The love is reward plenty. This is the most positive-sum industry in the world.
