Doubting Artist #4

Last night I had a gathering at my house, I let people roam all over my house (like I always do...open home, etc.)I let people wander into my studio and look at my painting in progress, my very personal and meaningful paintings that are an attempt to put a face on the undocumented immigrants and their plight. I am sure that it was well meant, ( and an effort to identify with me) but people told me stories of relatives "who just decided to take up painting, with no training, call themselves "naifs" and of course had multiple gallery reps and made lots of money! Wow. My face smiled and nodded at that person's good fortune, and my brain said, "Whaaat?" I've been seriously painting for years and...well that story is not my story. Oh but wait, that is not why I do what I do! I do what I do because I am compelled to be a part of the ongoing human conversation, using art as my vehicle. I am thankful in these recent months to be able to bring my painting into the service of a cause and to hopefully make good paintings as well.