Why is it easier to attempt challenging
things when you are part of a group?
This morning I arrived for a Crossfit
class http://tjsgym.com/and walked in on the end of the previous 5:15 am class.
I stood there half awake wondering two things. Firstly, what the hell was I
doing here so early in the morning, and then secondly what an amazing display
of will and determination I was witnessing. It was apparent that the group, the
combined energies of everyone in the room, was making it possible for these
folks to pull this off. There is something about having the momentum of a group
that makes things possible for individuals to achieve more than they would on
their own. I couldn’t imagine, for example, any of these people doing this
workout alone in their living room at 5:15 in the morning.
I often lament that art making doesn't
sometimes have this possibility. Artists just are squirreled away in studios
miles and miles apart with no idea what anyone else is doing. The closest thing
I have ever experienced of this kind of group momentum in relationship to art
making is during weeklong workshops. Having a community around you while also
working on your individual art is the best of both worlds.
Lately I have come to the conclusion
that my art definitely has improved because of my community. Having shows,
dealing with galleries, embracing and giving your energy to other artists and
supporters who are interested and engaged provides me with an amazing buoyancy
and momentum I just don’t think I could muster all alone. I believe that in
order to do what I love I am convinced I need as many people involved as
possible. Having a community that your part of and participate in is essential.
When the community flourishes from everyone’s energy and input and begins to
rise, then you along with everyone else do too.
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