A while back a wrote a post about doing art shows and what a disaster it was for me- it was about 8 years ago, when I first started selling my art. It cracks me up when I think about it now. I mean, it was a stay-in-bed-for-three-days-afterward-disaster. Anyway, I haven’t done a show since, but I just sent in an application for an adorable indie art show in my town. It is an indoor market which is so much more doable then the grand outdoor events requiring tents and good weather.
But here was the thing: I had to submit a photo that showed a display of my work. I haven’t done a show since SO long ago and my art has change so much since then. I didn’t have a photo of my display. This might sound silly, but not having a photo of my display completely stopped me in my tracks. My brain started going with a tape of negative thoughts with a zillion reasons why I will not be able to get a good enough photo.
So I sat with that for a couple of days. At one point I decided to just scrap the whole thing. Nevermind it. But then I realized that this is a pattern with me. I decide I will not be able to do something before I even try. I make up limiting beliefs about things being too hard and taking too long to be worth it. I become fearful if I have an idea but cannot see the end result before starting. I guess limiting myself is a way to keep myself from failure- don’t have photo, don’t apply, don’t get in, problem solved. (snip snap)
But for some reason this time, I noticed the negative pattern and it sent me into motion instead of leaving me stuck.
I called a good friend for some advice, borrowed some supplies and began working on my display table. In my studio! I had NO vision whatsoever of what it should look like. I blasted Mumford and Sons radio on Pandora. And I just did it.
It really doesn’t matter if I am in the show or not. Don’t get me wrong- I would love to be in it. But, if I am not, that is good too. Because I did what I needed to do. Even though I was unsure and it felt like too much work. Even though I didn’t know how. It turns out that it was pretty easy and painless. All of the fear was completely in my mind. (Isn’t it always?)
So next I will tackle my limiting beliefs about making videos, books, e-books, (insert any one of my endless list of creative ideas.) Hopefully I am growing and becoming braver with each day. Today it really feels like I am.
***
PS: I learned about the riding the wild donkey technique from my friend, Amanda, just before I took action instead of worrying. It really helped. Thank you Goddess Leonie!
Hello friends! I'm Lori Portka. I make art with the intention to radiate love and healing. 
From someone who has exhibited at events for 13+ years, your display is beautiful! You’re bound to be accepted, but you’re right, if not, it just means it’s not a right fit. 🙂
What an awesome victory over doubt and insecurity! I do the same thing — throw the towel in because I just assume I can’t do something — so your words are both familiar and encouraging.
And . . . your display is gorgeous!
Woooo! Riding the Wild Donkey is where it’s at! & I’m proud of you, woman. Oh yes.
It looks like you put a wide variety of of pieces in your display. If they are looking for someone who has a bit of all sizes and prices your display nails it. I so glad to see you wirte down that your are growing and becoming braver-now follow through and be that person. You can do it.
Lori… you are amazing! Your art is amazing, the steps you’ve taken are amazing and if it were my show I would be bowled over that you want to be part of it.
I would love to make art that touches one person in the way yours has touched me.
Thank you.
Elloa xx
I’m proud of you! it looks awesome 🙂
What an awesome story. Thank you for the inspiration. I’m learning that it doesn’t really matter what we do, but that we just do it and get out of the mind spinning! XO
Lori, your beautiful display brings me so much joy. I would love to have it right here in my little office space to keep me uplifted and inspired every day. I have one of your cards on my desk to keep my creativity flowing.
You are a gift.
Sending you so much love on this beautiful Bali night.
Oh, Lori, I LOVE it! The display & this post…how I can relate to your words. Thank you for your honesty & showing us how you popped out on the other side of self doubt/fear/mind stuff.
It’s so good to be here reconnecting with you–in all of my intense busyness, I’ve been missing these sweet connections.
Sending you love today,
Julia
Lori, how can your display not be beautiful? It truly captures the eye and it reels you in – so let’s hope that’s the outcome.
On top of this, your post truly resonated with me and it made me go and skedaddle over to Goddess Leonie’s blog about riding the wild donkey technique… it surely means the same thing for me and I am sometimes my own worst enemy! Lots of luck with the Indie show.
In joy
Jules xx
Lori,
Your display looks wonderful! So bright, colorful, and cheery! I would walk over in a second.
I totally get where you’re coming from with regards to limiting beliefs holding you back. As a recovering perfectionist, I have done this so many times in the past. I agree with you, too, that it’s usually way easier than I expected it to be! Just the other day, someone said to me that they admire how I just “jump right in, without having to know how to do it”. Hm! That must mean I have changed a bit! Yay!!
Bel
lori,
a collection of youness
is a whole lot of
wonderful.
loveu
xoxox
Just looking at that table makes me happy 🙂
We are so often our own worst enemies – allowing fear and doubt and every other good reason – rule. Love the display..and I do hope you do get into the show!
Dearest sweet lori, i love this post so much and i love how inspiring you are to me always. I love how you fight back your fears! I am loving your display too like lots!! I hope you get in to the show too! Have alovely merry happy week and love to you!
it looks AWESOME! and even if you decide not to do the show, what a great opportunity it gave you to spontaneously whip together at table so you can be ready for the next one. these are the creative challenges i love the most — the ones that i don’t know are coming!
How did I miss this post!? I LOVE it! I love that you went for it! I love your table! And OMG – tell me more about the angel ornament/hanging on the right hand side!!!!! How did you make her? I love her! xoxo
Did you find out if you got in yet?? I’m so excited to hear!
That table is so cute, I WANT TO FLIP IT. I’m looking for the PVC birds, though. Where are those things? They sell like HOTCAKES.
I just read your article in the latest ARTFUL BLOGGING, Autumn 2011. It’s one of the many Somerset Studios publiations that I always purchase. I have underlined and highlighted many of your comments in the article and now here I am, on your blog. I think your display for the art show is marvelous, darlin’, absolutely marvelous. I will return to your blog and check on your art show adventures. Also, your artwork is beautiful. Keep up the good work. I’ll soon be able to return to my studio and my art and really move forward in my retirement dream: to be a full-time, self-supporting artist and blogger. God Bless.
oh good for you! And thanks for sharing this…it’s so nice to know that others share the same insecurities. 🙂
What a BEAUTIFUL display! Looks like your heart knew what it was doing. 🙂
Just found your blog and LOVING your work! AND this display is AMAZING!
I’m SUPER proud of you for working through your struggles and realizing what a blessing that is!
MUCHO luck to you miss!
-jenipher