A few of my favorite spreads
For so many years, art has been about performance — Can I sell this? Will anybody else enjoy looking at this? Is this good enough? Am I good enough?
Something has changed. These days, it’s less about perfection and more about presence. Less about proving, more about playing.
✨ Read the full reflection on my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SaltedGrace
For many artists, the journey from focusing on flawless execution to embracing the moment of creation can be profoundly transformative. In the world of collage and mixed media art, this shift means valuing the process of playing with materials, textures, and imagery without the pressure to meet commercial standards or external approval. One of the most exciting aspects of this approach is how it encourages authenticity. When artists stop asking, "Is this good enough?" and instead immerse themselves in the act of creation, their work becomes a true reflection of their inner experiences and emotions. This presence-centered mindset fosters personal growth and can make art journaling a therapeutic practice. Exploring hashtags like #collageart, #artjournal, and #mixedmediaart reveals a vibrant community where creatives share diverse spreads that celebrate imperfection and experimentation. These communities champion innovative combinations of paper, paint, found objects, and writing, empowering artists to express complex narratives and feelings. By shifting focus from performance to playful presence, artists discover new levels of joy and freedom in their creative work. This approach invites everyone, whether seasoned professionals or casual hobbyists, to engage in art as a way of living fully and expressing truly, rather than aiming solely for validation or market success. Ultimately, embracing presence in art challenges us all to reconnect with our creative essence, appreciate the beauty in spontaneous expression, and find liberation in letting go of perfectionist expectations.
