Singing As A Spiritual Practice

CRITICISM

Criticism is a very powerful tool. If used constructively, it can serve to inspire creative development in an artist, but when used in a judging and attacking way, a critical viewpoint can prove to be very damaging and defeating. Every professional artist is subject to scrutiny each time their work goes public, so it is extremely important to learn how to put critical observances in their proper perspective.

Never give too much power to an opinion, whether negative or positive, for while it is important to remain open to suggestions from persons in a professional capacity, it is also necessary to know how to balance that opinion along with your own sense of your work. One individual's opinion about a particular piece of work will not be the determining factor in making an artist's career--ultimately, our artistic value is built on a body of work, not just one experience. Trends come and go, but artists who continually search out the truth within themselves and take chances in their work will outlast the continual changes in popular fashion. There is definitely a risk to putting out one's art to the world, not everyone will like it or even understand it, but that is not what is important. All that matters is your belief in your own expression, because free expression and individuality is what inspires and stimulates the universe.

It takes a great deal of stamina and inner strength to sustain a career in the arts, so a young hopeful should work hard at mastering skill on their instrument of expression, along with a sense of inner confidence and personal empowerment that comes from emotional growth. An artist should never try to conform to the desired style of some established critic, no matter how important he or she is. Always remain true to your own beliefs. When expression is contrived in any way, it will lack the depth necessary to really move people.

Remember your art is your life, and having a strong sense of self awareness is exactly the foundation you will need to sustain a lifetime of criticism. The ability to create for the pure act of expression and joy will provide a comforting foothold in an artist's experience.

We do it for love.