The Archetypal Hero - You and the Creative Process
What the classic story of Odysseus can teach us about the adventure of art making.
Ok, ok, I know referencing The Odyssey is pretty much overused at the moment, but stay with me. There is much to be learned from that epic and timeless masterpiece in terms of life and art making. Such is why it has lasted thousands of years.
“Between Woods and Sea” 8” x 8” x 1.5” Acrylic, collage, toner on panel. ©Amy Guion Clay 2026
The Odyssey is one of the earliest stories of The Hero’s Journey, the archetypal tale of our human call to adventure (exploration/discovery), transformation (courage/growth) and authenticity (wisdom and coming home to Self).
Let’s face it, all of life is about overcoming obstacles. That’s where the transformation happens. Without obstacles there is no motivation to move forward in a new and brave way.
Overcoming obstacles = Transformation. Simple. But easier said than done.
“Original Nature” Acrylic, collage, toner on panel, 7” x 5” x 1”. ©Amy Guion Clay 2026
Every moment in art making is an adventure. We, the hero, head out toward the unknown with wide eyed curiosity, and then return with a longing for home (our true nature).
Along the way we slay the Cyclops (monsters of fear and doubt), we are seduced away from the studio by the Sirens (shiny keys of distractions - you name it), and weather internal storms (judgement and self criticism) that constantly keep us off course from returning to our authentic self. We flounder, act from hubris and then beauty , and eventually find our most courageous selves, arriving home better than when we left.
Collage/sketchbook page from my journal. ©Amy Guion Clay 2026
Of course, we don’t have to travel to the far reaches of the Earth to find our own adventures. For some, the most formidable foe is in the studio.
But the adventures in the studio do not ask us to face larger than life threats and real cyclopian dangers, they only ask us to be present and brave in small measures.
Each bold mark, brushstroke, color defies the gods of doubt and fear.
Each action we take as creatives is a slaying of dragons/Cyclops.
Resisting the constant temptation of distractions allows us to fulfill the transformation.
This is what I teach in my workshops and private coaching sessions. How to stay steady even in the storms of our own making. How to show up, be brave and curious, and become explorers without fear and judgement
These are 3 archetypal lessons that can be used in the studio:
RESIST THE SIRENS - Commit to focus, be free from the the temptations that lure us away from art making. Defy the sirens by showing up in the studio every day, turning off your devices, and minimizing distractions of any kind.
SLAY THE CYCLOPS - The monsters of doubt and fear will always be with us. Bravely face the demons that keep you small and limited. Stay vigilant with your thoughts that are really the only thing to fear.
POSEIDON’S WRATH ON THE SEA - Just witness the highs and lows of the stormy seas of our own judgements. Learn to stay neutral, there is no right or wrong way, just stay curious about what emerges.
OK, enough of the Odyssey for one day! Art making is the opportunity to be the Hero you always knew you were. Have courage and venture forth!
And join me for my upcoming mixed media workshop Sept 11-13 or 18-20 in Boulder, CO! Click the link below for more info!