Shining the Light on Your Shadow Artist

Intuitive shadow painting by Carol Lorraine

I've been married to three artists. I learned so much about myself, creating, and art from each one. I didn't really see myself as an artist until after my last marriage. Then I began the exciting journey to my true self and discovered the artist within my soul and my life purpose! Now I can't stop creating, painting, and teaching others to be creative!

Julia Cameron, author of The Artist's Way, calls this being a "shadow artist." She explains that shadow artists gravitate to their rightful tribe but cannot yet claim their birthright. Hiding in the shadows, afraid to step out and expose the dream to the light, fearful that it will disintegrate to the touch they often choose shadow careers--close to the desired art, but not the art itself. When I discovered this, my artist journey took root.

The inner critic and negative beliefs are at the heart of the shadow artist. Writers may go into journalism or advertising. Artists may become artist managers, or coach others like I did. Many work as artist's representatives. Most shadow artists have been raised that way. I was taught that I couldn't make money as an artist; that it wasn't a viable career, like teaching was. So I went into teaching. Now I'm a passionate talented artist AND a gifted teacher. How do you like that hutzpah?

If you're a shadow artist you know that you shouldn't put off your art because of feeling afraid. However, if you don't acknowledge your fear, the block becomes stickier. You want to write, but you tell yourself you can't spell. You know you shouldn't worry about that, so you decide that you can't write, and the block sticks even more.

Shadow artists judge and criticize themselves for not living their dreams.  Life can feel unfulfilling and off purpose. They are afraid to take a stand for their dream and take it seriously. It takes courage, commitment, and support. I became a Living Your Vision coach so I could help others live their dreams.

To heal from our creative blocks and fears it's important to go gently and take small steps. Progress happens with missteps along the way. It can be a few steps forward,  a couple backwards, then forwards again. Life isn't perfect. We make mistakes. We start, stop, and pick ourselves up and keep going with the dream tucked safely in our hearts. The trick is to keep going, surround yourself with supportive people, and stay true to your dream!

Using the The Artist's Way process was a huge support to me. I did the process for about three years--first on my own, then while facilitating groups using the program. I watched as other women found their way. They left unfulfilling jobs, broke through their blocks and fears, made more money, and began to  live their dreams! They wrote books. They painted paintings. They became entrepreneurs. They retired!

If you or someone you know might be a "shadow artist," and are ready to be the true artist of your heart, I am offering Create Your HeART'S Desire~ an 8 week teleclass inspired by The Artist's Way starting October 2, 2014.

You can read more about it here. Then let's have a conversation to find out if this course would be a good match for you.

Are you ready to:

• Step out of the shadows and be the brilliant Masterpiece that you were born to be?
• Give up being the "good girl," the nice girl"-- at the expense of being your true self?
• Heal your blocks and fears?
• Strengthen your confidence?
• Excavate your buried dreams?

I would be honored to be your guide.

If you have encouragement or support to share with others, please leave your comments below.
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Thank you!