The narrow margin of the artist life in this consummerist feed society is not for the faint hearted. It is not the conventional road. It is the path of most resistance! It is why despite many people’s creative inclinations, they sideline it as a “hobby”. How many people wait until their “sensible” careers or family responsibilities are over before they follow their creative path? Fear is an ugly beast that society has ruthlessly used to derail many an artist from following their calling. For female artists it’s coupled with the expectation they should be prioritising family, domestic and care duties. The juggling act while still attempting to have serious art time has been raised by countless women. Explaining further why their artistic pursuits have often been marginalised or not realised until their later years. For those brave enough, or superhuman enough to do it all, they are often met with societal fear, disapproval and judgement, unless they make it big of course. So if the odds are so clearly not in our favour, why art?
There are a myriad of reasons. Connection, storytelling, protest and social/cultural commentaries. The artist creates to better understand and reflect on our world and our humanity. But at its absolute core, the answer is necessity. An artist must create. It is compulsion and the denial of this act leaves a gaping void of numbness. During the times where my artistic desires were muted, I struggled with purpose and contentment.
But that compulsive need for creating came out in other ways and always found its way into my world. As an educator my approach was filled with drawings in my created worksheets, classroom murals and approach to the learning. As a mum the house was filled with arts and crafts, we created adventure settings, props and costumes for playing games, I painted the cubbyhouse with flowers, created fairy gardens and went crazy with the decorating of our baked goods. Compulsion! Even when you sideline it, your creativity finds a way to shine on through.
For all the would’ve, should’ve, could’ve’s, for not following the professional artistic path sooner, I look at the rich tapestry of colour, curiosity and wonder my creative compulsions brought to my girls childhood and realise the creative gift was bringing purpose all along. Yes, my own professional journey was delayed, but art has been coursing through our family life and enriching our bonds and fondest memories always. That is priceless.
Besides, I’m stubborn and full of energy. I will be creating for the rest of my days, so I figure I’ve got plenty of time to enjoy my artistic career in my fabulous studio. I might be at the emerging stage of the ‘art career’ but art has been the living and breathing core of my life in every path, stage and phase.
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Susie Sotiropoulos 