I'll Paint What They're Painting.

Have you ever seen the movie When Harry Met Sally staring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan? If not you may at least know the classic scene where Sally demonstrates to Harry how she can fake an orgasm right there in the diner they've chosen to eat a meal. The scene ends with the classic line from an onlooking lady, "I'll have what she's having". Keep that in mind for a moment.

I'm subscribed to the newsletter of respected Art Advice writer, Sylvia White, who recently published an article called the 12 Step Recovery Program for Artists.

What struck me about the article was the very first step reproduced below:

1. Admit that you are powerless over your ARTmaking, and it is the only thing that makes your life manageable.

Many artists describe the feelings they get from making art as an almost spiritual or sexual experience, feeling a complete and total sense of happiness and being at one with the world. Much like the feeling an athlete gets from hitting the ball in the sweet spot. But, instead of it being a fleeting moment, it is a lasting sense satisfaction and contentment. It is what keeps them the sane, wonderful people we love.

Did you spot the line in there; Many artists describe the feelings they get from making art as an almost spiritual or sexual experience, feeling a complete and total sense of happiness and being at one with the world.

I would describe creating my art as many things but none of them would come close to it being a 'sexual experience'.

If you are one of those artists who do then let me know what you're painting because, dammit, I want to give it a try!!