Expert: DJ Murphy - 3/14/2004

Question
Dear Mr. Murphy,

Hello I am a beginning artist living in Pakistan. I am 37 years old an a mother to 3 children. I had my arttraining when I was 30 and completed it in 4 years. I am a third position holder of Karachi. I am trying to get my first groupexhibit for my paintings. I just wanted to ask you is it normal to be scared and confused when you want to display your work for the first time? I really want to succeed as an artist, because I love painting, but I am also ambitious. Some people paint because they love it, but I have also a drive to succeed. Sometimes I lose confidence in my work and feel depressed. Are these feelings normal or am I just crazy. You can see my work on my website: http://www.saminaislam.com.pk Just be frank and tell me what you think about it. I am really happy I found this website and can ask my questions over here. I hope to get an answer till then goodbye.

Samina  

Answer
Hello.........today is an opening reception for a show about "flowers" in my art gallery in New Jersey.  Am I nervous? Yes!

So nervousness is common in the art world and in the world of entertainment too........probably in the world of business as well.

I want to congratulate you on your works.  I visited your web site and it is most interesting.  I believe you have real talent......and I can see you evolving into a significant artist.  I don't know the culture you are living in, as to the support for the arts, but I know artists live everywhere and survive.

To have self doubts is also normal.  When your exhibition is completed.....you will feel very good about yourself.  It is a right of passage.

My best wishes in your success.

dj murphy