How do I bring value to the world as an artist?

A woman in a green dress walks towards the fog, past animal bones on her journey of self discovery.

A couple of weeks ago I had to give a bit of a talk to a group of artists who were incubating ideas to bring forth into the world. I too took part in the ‘incubator’ program last year, so I guess I was an alumni guest speaker. Cue all the feelings of not good enough :)

It actually ended up being a really great exercise in taking an itinerary of the ways that an artist brings value to the world. There are many. And they are bloody important.

I realised if I looked at the different levels I could see the value rippling out. The value to myself. I don’t work properly if I’m not making art. I can’t not do it, so as an artist, I’m being my authentic self. This makes a huge difference to the Lauren who shows up to her family. Making art fills me up, and I’m then more able to fill my husband and children with love and care.

The arts community: there was always someone heading in the same direction as me, who I could turn around and shine a light on. I’ve been here, here’s some things I’ve learnt. Value in shared experience as will as inspiration and support. We artists can’t survive alone, we bring enormous value to each other.

The wider community. The arts has soothed souls during Covid. It’s what we’ve all turned to. As an artist, I’m telling stories of hope and desperation that mark the times. I’m making art for people to connect with and hang on their walls, which then becomes a part of their story. I’ve opened a studio/gallery that people can come and enjoy local art in. I’d love to expand on this service in the future.

The world? Well being at the beginning of my artist journey, that link wasn’t so tangible. I’ve raised money for bushfire injured animals and Bendigo Food share and Bendigo animal shelter…it’s given me food for thought about a greater purpose to set me Compass to. Finding that thing to champion, using my art as a vehicle.

So if you’re an artist, and you’re stuck in a rut of thinking what’s the point…I urge you to take your own inventory of how you might be providing value with your calling.

Lauren x