Gosh, please feel free to shoot me if I ever "arrive". The self doubt, the anticipation, the disappointment, the hope and the fear are the driving force. God forbid that the journey is ever completed.
Gosh, please feel free to shoot me if I ever "arrive". The self doubt, the anticipation, the disappointment, the hope and the fear are the driving force. God forbid that the journey is ever completed.
life is a journey, not a destination
I think I've "arrived" at a place where being an amateur and pleasing myself is Ok. My work has been rejected many more times than it's been accepted. Rejections and/or indifference to your work can really tear a chunk out of your confidence.
But I now just enjoy going out and photographing and not worrying if the work is good enough for View Camera, Lens Work or some museum in the Big Apple.
But I have a plan for a New York City exhibit. On my next trip there, I'm going to take one of my framed photos and display in my hotel room and then take it down when I leave.
A friend of mine, who is a landscape architect, built a memorial garden for the police in london. The project was then submitted for an award in the annual "Prime Ministers Better Public Building Awards" scheme. They didn't win but were a finalist. So what does the prime minister know about landscape architecture? Sod all, but it makes a nice sound byte for the Prime Minister to present an award to someone for building a public building . Its notoriety for the winners and finalists and may generate some some sales but somehow I think it would mean more if acclaim were coming from contemporaries in the same field rather than a politican or I have I got it all wrong.
Enjoy it while it lasts.
Interesting topic, and interesting responses so far.
From my perspective, "arrival" is probably a state best determined by third parties, and one best taken lightly by the subject. Such pronouncements, and public accolades, can have substantial benefit for marketing purposes, if properly used in one's PR (marketing) efforts. But, I agree with your assessment, Kirk - personal satisfaction with one's efforts and accomplishments is probably more germain in the final analysis. Prior to "final analysis" (i.e. death), I also agree with Chris' observations about being cautious about listening too intently to the voice (whether whispered or shouted) of one's own ego. I think we've all seen people who have listened too intently to their own ego, and have come to believe too much in their own (exagerated?) PR - i.e. people who are "legends in their own minds".
i've heard of a few musicians calling their inductions into the rock and roll hall of fame as a death sentence. it's hard to be seen (or to see yourself) as a vital creative force when your head's already on a shelf in the museum.
Jay Leno: "So how is it dfferent that now you are a big star?"
Vin Diesel: " I used to be the hunter. Now I am the hunted"
I learn all of my life's great lessons from people who's names are petrolem products.
"Fill your bowl to the brim
and it will spill.
Keep sharpening your knife
and it will blunt.
Chase after money and security
and your heart will never unclench.
Care about people's approval
and you will be their prisoner.
Do your work, then step back.
The only path to serenity."
Lao-tzu
Arrival? I must have missed the train while I was out on the trail with my kids and my camera.
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks