Paint What You Want and Die Happy

Period, end of story.

The Order of Nature 10” x 8” x 1.5” Acrylic, toner on panel. SOLD ©Amy Guion Clay

Is there anything else we need to know as creatives? Why isn’t that as easy as it sounds? I have paraphrased from a quote by the great writer Henry Miller who was known for his famous novels such as Tropic of Cancer, but he also was a watercolorist who worked freely in vivid colors and loose brushstrokes.

He said: “Paint what you like and die happy” Henry Miller

I prefer the quote to be “Paint what you WANT and die happy”, because “Paint what you LIKE…” is more subtly qualifying about the finished product.

Either way, it is solid, inspiring advice, direct and to the point. So why don’t we live in that truth? In art and in life?

Of course there are a multitude of things that complicate our lives, but art making doesn’t have to be one of them. Spending 15 minutes a day or longer just making marks that feel good is something we all have space/time for.

The essential thing is that it’s not for anyone else to like or not like. It’s your own - what YOU want to do. No apologies, explanations, justifications. Then you might find that 15 minutes a day becomes 1/2 hour, or 4 hours. YOUR time.

Step out of your own way, forget the NOISE, and paint/make what ignites you.

Then let life follow in that place of freedom. You won’t regret it.