Functions of Failure

Yes, let’s talk about failure – and how it serves us.  I spent a year experimenting with alcohol-based inks on Yupo “paper”.  I created images I loved, experimented with bold color and semi-controlled chaos.  I was excited about the results I was getting – until I went on vacation.  While I was away, one of my new creations was placed in a sunny window.  By the time I returned, it was destroyed by the sunlight.  The inks were not (and could not be) archival.  Soon I realized that even in indirect light, my earliest works in this medium were already fading.  Fixatives and UV protective varnishes did not work.  I watched my bold colors change week by week.  I was heartbroken.  A year of work was self-destructing before my eyes.  I could not sell it.  I had only the digital record of what I had achieved. 

I was so discouraged that I hardly painted for over a year—but, I did not stop painting.  I also explored other creative outlets, mostly photography.  The lessons I learned about color and creativity were not lost.  I learned new ways of seeing.  I let go of some unnecessary negative ideas.  The images were worth making.  The lessons were worth learning.  Failure had a purpose, frustrating as it was. 

Now I just need to remember all that for the next time an unexpected obstacle trips me up and lands me on my…whatever I land on.  We’ve all landed on our…something…sometime.  Let’s all just keep helping each other get back up.

Peace be with you!

--Leigh