Grab that brass ring!? Um, not so much.

You know how it is - if you don't try, you can't fail. Fear of failure? Fear of success? Either way, it causes inertia and limits progress.

I'm happy to say that "maturity" and expanding horizons have gradually imbued a sense of "can-do," or at least a dose of "what-the-hell" in recent years! Boundaries have been stretched and that brass ring is beginning to seem like a more attainable target.

If you've been following my blog you know that this has been a creative year with wonderful new experiences, adventures and relationships. From workshops in Provence to an abandoned prison, I've been artfully inspired by poppy fields and pockmarked plaster. I've been able to take advantage of some amazing opportunities.

And it's all been in pursuit of mastery. So this year, my goal is to simply do more artwork. That's it. Be disciplined and paint more. It may not sound creative but a commitment to painting more is a commitment to getting better at it.

In the words of Pablo Picasso,  

"Inspiration does exist, but it must find you working."

I have some specific plans about subjects to tackle and venues to approach this year, but it's all about committing time and feeling ready to take on new ideas. And just getting down to work!

There is a great article on the Oil Painters of America blog on the subject of Artistic Goals by Roger Dale Brown. Rather than quote his practical no-nonsense advice for artists, you should just click the link and read it! It's the first of a series of three articles and I'm looking forward to further inspiration.

So here's the focus: no matter what your interests and responsibilities may be, take charge of your life to the greatest possible extent. That's all.

My wish for you all is to create a Happy New Year in 2014!

Green Roseville and Plums ©2013 Dorothy Lorenze