Following my Bliss
They say follow your passion. Like it’s this simple, clear-cut road you just step onto and everything falls into place. I used to believe that too. Still do, on some days. But the truth? The truth is it’s messy… and really damn hard some days... Definitely not always romantic or picturesque - not at all like these picture perfect lifestyles you see on all these youtube vlogs, lol.
I’ve been creating art for years now. If you’ve followed along here for a while, you already know that. But recently, something shifted. I stopped waiting for the right time, the perfect plan, or a sign from the universe. I just decided: this is it. This is what I want to give my life to. And I went all in.
It’s not glamorous. It’s definitely not lucrative… not yet anyway but it makes my soul happy - well, when it manages to drown out the anxiety that is. People often tell me how beautiful my work is. They comment, they share, they support in words. But very rarely does that support actually turn into a sale. And I get it… life’s expensive and everyone around the world is struggling in one way or another, but I won’t lie… it stings sometimes. Compliments don’t pay the bills and encouragement doesn’t fill the fridge - unfortunately, lol.
Still. I carry on. Because what else am I supposed to do? This is the thing that makes me feel most like myself. Creating is the one part of my life that feels real, solid, steady and safe… even when everything else feels unsure. And yes, I do hope it becomes more sustainable. I’d love for the thing I pour my heart into to also help keep the lights on.
After lots of trial and error, I’ve finally managed to set up a new online shop on Etsy, something that allows me to share my work with people here at home in South Africa, and overseas too, without having to juggle multiple platforms and without it costing a fortune for either end of the world. That alone was a huge step forward. I’ve made two sales so far. And honestly? That was enough to keep the fire lit for now.
One of my latest pieces took a few weeks to finish. Not because it was particularly complicated, but because I’ve learnt to trust my own timing. If the energy’s off, I leave it alone. When I come back to it, it’s usually with clearer eyes and a calmer mind. I’m not trying to produce for the sake of it. I want every piece to carry something honest. Something real.
There are days when it all feels pointless. But I remind myself… again and again, that this is bigger than recognition or numbers. This is about showing up for myself and for the life and “lifestyle” I truly want. For the passionate part of me that still believes… because something in me refuses to settle for a life half-lived. That’s reason enough.
Fine art, gallery quality prints are available for this piece - and all my others in my Etsy shop Even if you aren't interested in buying any art... a simple visit and browse around the store helps me with the Etsy algorithm... please and thanks :)
❤❤❤
Until next time...
Much Love from Country Bumpkinland, South Africa xxx
Jaynielea
ALL IMAGES ARE MY PROPERTY UNLESS OTHERWISE CREDITED
Typos make me human. I may or may not get around to correcting them.
All written content shared here is my property, unless otherwise credited
@jaynie, seriously, no more really needs to be said.
Yes, of course we also want to pay our bills and buy some food and all that.
Hey, you know I kept art/crafts galleries — twice (yes, I'm crazy!) — for almost 18 years, right?
When I look at your work, you have the "X factor" that can lead to a lot of commercial success, as well. Your art is vibrant and passionate, and that will reach people. So keep plugging; keep the faith... keep doing you, because you are amazing!
xo
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Thank you xxx Much appreciated!