As the new year begins, I find myself reflecting on the concept of rebirth—not just in life, but in art. Rebirth is not a single act; it’s a continual process of rediscovery, renewal, and sometimes defiance. As artists, we evolve by breaking free from conventions, daring to explore uncharted territories, and embracing the spirit of Renaissance masters who redefined creativity in their time.
When I first began posting my art online, a dear friend nicknamed me a "Renaissance artist." At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the weight of that term. Renaissance means "rebirth," and the artists of that era embodied a profound spirit of discovery and transformation. That one comment carried me through many dark days, inspiring me to view my work as more than mere expressions of creativity—it became a journey of self-renewal.
Yet, as time passed, I lost sight of that spark. Like many, I tried to follow advice about turning my passion into a business. In the process, I became overly concerned with what others expected, rather than staying true to my roots. Somewhere along the way, I let go of the very essence that once defined my work.
Now, as I reflect, I am reminded of why the Renaissance remains my favorite period in art history. Artists like Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Botticelli broke free from the rigid structures of the Middle Ages. They celebrated the human form, nature, and the complexities of emotion in groundbreaking ways. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling redefined what fresco art could achieve, while da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man explored the intersection of science and beauty. These were not just artistic triumphs—they were declarations of independence from convention.
The Renaissance teaches us that rebirth is not about perfection. It’s about courage—the courage to challenge norms, embrace failures, and create for the sake of discovery. Even beyond the Renaissance, we see this spirit in countless artists throughout history.
Take the Impressionists, for example. In the 19th century, painters like Monet and Degas rejected the traditional academic approach, choosing instead to paint fleeting moments of light and movement. Critics initially ridiculed their work, but their persistence reshaped the course of art. Similarly, modern abstract artists like Jackson Pollock embraced chaos as a form of expression, redefining what painting could be.
For me, the lesson is clear: to be reborn as an artist, I must reclaim the sense of wonder and fearlessness that inspired me in the beginning. Like the Renaissance masters, I must once again challenge my own conventions and rediscover the joy of creating something new—not for an audience, not for approval, but for the thrill of discovery.
So, as I step into this new year, I invite you to join me in embracing rebirth—not just as artists, but in all areas of life. Let’s break free from the constraints we’ve placed on ourselves. Let’s rediscover the things that make us feel alive and passionate. Let’s create not because we must, but because we can.
To my dear friend who called me a "Renaissance artist" all those years ago: thank you. That single comment still resonates with me and has helped me remember what matters most in art and in life.
Here’s to a year of rediscovery, rebirth, and bold creativity.
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