COMING OUT - My Experience as a Novice Artist

Last year was my first outing as an artist/painter and as many novices know it can be quite an exciting yet daunting experience.    The progression from creating quietly at home to getting sufficient paintings ready for exhibiting seems a mammoth decision-making task.  

Left: BALANCING CRYSTALS © Pamela Harland 2023

Right: PEACEFUL BUDDHA © Pamela Harland 2024

Emerging at Mahurangi East Tennis Club annual fundraising art show The Great Summer Art Exhibition over the New Year was truly transforming, like emerging from the chrysalis into a butterfly.  At what point does a hobby change into becoming a professional artist/creative?  I was admirably encouraged by my fellow artists and friends with their kind words and positive feedback.  The feeling ‘exposed’ comes to mind which can trigger so many self-critical thoughts.  The judgement of our creative work is part of the course, I suppose, and the ability to develop a healthy detached point of view.   I felt the warmth of pride seeing my paintings on the boards with many others.

Following on from The Great Summer Art Exhibition was the Matakana Hospice art show mARTakana in mid-January – more art to quickly get ready.  Again, I loved seeing my art displayed and such heartwarming responses received.  The MAST2024 show in February was absolutely epic.  Being part of a group of creatives exhibiting together at Studio 161 and sharing the hosting/welcoming/sales roles was fabulous. I really recommend it.  I started to learn a whole new language of perception, perspectives, reflections, discussions, and marketing of art.    Well, where am I up to now?  I have been busy over the winter creating more art for the upcoming expos and look forward to having another exciting season!  

Pamela Harland is an artist, counsellor and life coach. You can

connect with her through New Dimension Art @  www.spiritofwellbeing.com