I was talking with one of my most encouraging friends, about my creative process and how it has been a challenge for me to really push myself and try new things. I feel like I have so many people depending on me, and while I’m thankful for each and every one of them, it is hard to push my own boundaries when there’s a very big possibility for failure.
But why is failure ugly?
If failing results in growth then why am I shamed of it?
I remember visiting the Columbus Museum of Art a few years ago and seeing works from Rembrandt’s sketchbook that I’m pretty darn sure he did not think they were his best pieces – certainly not finished or refined!
But the process, the way the ideas unfolded so organically in those drawings, was just as beautiful as the masterpieces hanging a few feet away. And, as a young artist, struggling with my own book of messy scribbles, they were WAY more encouraging.
While I am a million paintings away from Rembrandt’s skill, the more work I create, the less precious they becomes to me overall. With each painting it becomes easier to say goodbye to a piece and the more the process seeps into my soul. That has become precious to me.
I love my paintings, but I could not live without the process.
So, I press on, committing to try new things, to be ok with the ugly, the “failures”, and the lessons learned. I am committing to create for the meditative moments, the creative energy, the feeling of the brushes scratching the canvas with their bristling color-washing strokes, and for the thrill of 1,000 tiny decisions made along the way.
Several months ago I started a community around this theme. The hashtag #DoItForTheProcess has caught the eye of many artists and creative who understand the importance (and beauty) of the process. There are currently 9,000 photos and counting in the collection!
This community is welcoming and supportive – so please join! When you find yourself delighting in the process, share that moment on Instagram along with #DoItForTheProcess
beautifulhelloblog.com 
I love this concept! #Doitfortheprocess
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Oh this is amazing.
I am definitely going to have to use this hashtag on instagram, and thank you for building this community, it’s brilliant 🙂
Erin | comadiary blog
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I found this absolutely inspiring. I now have it printed and hanging next to my computer. I am a graphic designer (among other creative characters) and sometimes the process can be repetitive and overwhelming, but this is a beautiful way of seeing that process. #DoItForTheProcess
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Reblogged this on Rhiannon Rosas Design and commented:
This is absolutely inspiring for all artists.
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Reblogged this on katiegracee28.
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Reblogged this on queenofpeace2015.
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Love your post! Going to start using your #
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you have a beautiful blog, such an inspiration for new bloggers like me ! Definitely going to use your hashtag, and looking forward to more posts !!
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Seems like a perfect idea. We are always in the process of becoming.
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Your post is really inspiring!
Have a beautiful day! 😊
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Loved this post. Close to my heart. I occasionally google completely random items, animals, insects, etc. to get ideas for new things to broaden my horizons
#painting
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Reblogged this on Write Dorne – Putting life into words. and commented:
I love the idea of just enjoying creating and this post says just that. Enjoy yourself. I had to reblog… great stuff.
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Hi Emily. I’m new to your great blog. I love this post and have reblogged on my blog dorne whale- my inner child.
I like to attempt to paint and I enjoy myself immensely, in the process.
Good to meet you and I’m following your blog now. 🙂
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Wonderful to have this expressed in words. The means are more important than the end (and the only way to get there).
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Very inspiring and important to keep in mind. Sometimes the value of the process gets lost when you need to come up with a finished product…especially by a deadline!
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One question, do you use acrylics as your medium?
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I like this post very much. I appreciate that someone understands what a creative person experiences. It has been a challenge these last few years because I am a graphic designer. However, I am inspired and will push forward. Thank you! Keep sharing.
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Love the concept. Especially as someone from theatre- everything for the process. This is great.
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