I didn’t have a new post last week because the painting I was working wasn’t up to snuff. Then my brother came over for a visit, and his creative energy must have transferred to me because I was able to finish the painting in a way that was very satisfying.
The more I live with this work, the more I love it!
In the next few weeks, I will be entering several of my pieces into regional juried art shows. Submitting work to be judged always makes me excited and very, very nervous. Before my work gets judged, it’s easy to tell myself that it’s okay if it’s not selected. Just because my work is not chosen for a show doesn’t mean that it’s not good or worthy. This is true. However, when I get the call informing me that my work is rejected, I feel AWFUL. Despite being prone to rejection depression, I’m going to try again. I have chosen five works to enter into the judging. (I’m a bit nervous because one of the pieces I’m going to enter isn’t even started. Yikes!)
I’ll keep you posted on my art show status, as long as my rejection depression and pride don’t get in my way.
Megan Caldwell Chandler 
Never stop trying! You are wonderful!!
Thank you my friend!
Your works are great! I just love this one – the overall picture and the detail as you burrow in! I was always overlooked in my camera club which was depressing but then I thought, “well, it’s just their taste, my work is just different, not the traditional stuff they are expecting”.
Matisse used to get terrible anxiety about finishing his works, especially for deadlines and commissions.
Good for you with these entries! Hope you do well.
Thanks! I’m thinking I’ll have some better luck in one of the shows because I looked up the juror’s work online, and it’s very experimental. I think this is a good sign. The juror from the other show creates work that is very traditional. I know jurors are supposed to be non-biased (at least I think they are?) but I can’t help feel that they have personal preferences.
Yes, I do think they lean to their own preferences.
I really like this piece! You have some awesome art you can enter. I’m excited you may put your altered books in. They are wonderful. Just keep trying and stay away from that depression stuff!!!!
Thanks! I’m going to enter two of my hand made books, Cleverest Girl and Helpmeat. I’m having positive feelings about it. Although, when I get positive feelings and then get rejected, rejection depression is worse! Ahhh!
Ha. But seriously, don’t worry about me. I’ll be ok. 🙂 A little nutty, but ok.
I really like this piece, Megan. And best of luck with your entries! “Don’t let the muggles get you down.” ― J.K. Rowling. [Insert “rejections” for “muggles.”] 🙂
Thanks! I’m having good feelings about it!