Commissions? Can I do that?!

Commission?! You mean TALK with people who want something in particular from me?! Would I be able to understand what they want?                                                                  What if I spend hours, weeks and perhaps even months creating something they are not satisfied with?!

All of these were thoughts that made my heart beat faster as I pondered the possibilities.

The truth is, I was scared. At that point in my artistic career I was pleased to continue creating what it was that I saw in my mind's eye at that point in time and have it purchased and treasured. It was much less intimidating to this woman who is comfortable in her own studio for days and weeks at a time, not missing anything outside of it for lengths of time that would make many others squirm. I am self admittedly, quite the artistic shut in. 

I still have bouts of discomfort merely marketing myself on social media. I crave one day entering shows and presenting a collection at an art show, but the thought of being face front in display with my work makes me nervous. Invisioning myself standing at a booth answering questions face to face with so many I do not know about my work, gives me a slight case of the sweats.

Then, one blessed day, I was contacted for a rather special commission inquiry. It was put up, or shut up time. I find it to be true that we do not quite know how we will react to something until we face it. We may speculate in hopes that we may be more brave than we would be in reality. On the other hand, we may also sell ourselves short in our very own minds. The latter seemed to be the case for me. 

I was referred by someone I very much respect. I felt truly blessed by this and rose to the occasion. I now fail to see what could have possibly been so intimidating.

In the communicating and working to collaborate is where I found deep enjoyment, not discomfort or intimidation. As for the issue with the fear of creating something that would not be sufficiant, or 'not quite right', I now realize that if communication is maintained throughout the creative process, there is not a cause for concern. Instead, for me, it is a source of extreme enjoyment. The back and forth of creating designs, together, that I would not have come up with on my own. I had not done this since art school, and realized how much I truly missed it.

I am blessed beyond what I ever saw in my own mind. I am grateful and thank every single one of you who take the time to read here.

These are photographs of my very first beadwork commission. An honor stole in the traditional southeastern woodland style of beading. The design was inspired by the work of Martha Berry, my precious friend and mentor. 

Never back down to the possibility of progress. Face opportunities with the quite confidence of knowing your own abilities and limitations. Be honest and kind to yourself.

A friend of mine shared a thought with me not so long ago that revisits me every day since she said it to me.

"If you have a gift, you are suppose to share it." I am on my way dear friend, taking the natural steps of artistic growth. Thank you.