The Emotional Rollercoaster of Creating Art: A Journey with Jody Keen

Ever wonder what it's like to create a piece of art from scratch? Well, let me take you through the wild ride of emotions I experience every time I start a new painting. Trust me, it's an adventure filled with highs, lows, and moments of triumph! Here's a peek behind the scenes:

1. I Can Do This!
   Ah, the fresh excitement of starting a new painting. My mind is buzzing with ideas, colors, and possibilities. I’m ready to tackle the world (or at least the canvas) with the confidence of an artist on a mission! 
   
   
   
   
2. Oh No! What Have I Agreed To?
   The reality kicks in. As I stare at the blank canvas, I start second-guessing everything. Did I bite off more than I can chew? Can I really bring this vision to life? Cue the mini panic.
   
   
   
   
3. This Sketch is Looking Great!
   Okay, crisis averted—for now. The sketch is done, and I’m feeling good again. The foundation is set, and it’s all going to be smooth sailing from here... right?
4. Now Paint… Hmm, Where Do I Start?
   Oh boy. Now comes the tough part. Where do I begin? So many options, so many colors… and only one chance to get it right. Deep breath. Time to dive in.
5. This is Terrible—Should I Start Again?
   Midway through, I hit the dreaded "why does this look like a mess?" phase. Everything feels wrong, and I'm wondering if scrapping the whole thing and starting over is the only option.
6. It’s Looking OK; Just Keep Layering.
   No time for regrets! Layer by layer, I slowly start seeing the painting take shape. It's not perfect yet, but it’s better than I thought. Time to trust the process
   
   
   
   
7. Yeah, It’s Looking Good!
   The magic begins to happen. Suddenly, all those doubts fade away as the painting starts to shine. I’m in the zone, and I’m loving every minute of it.
8. It’s Beautiful.
   There it is. The moment every artist waits for—the masterpiece reveals itself. Every brushstroke makes sense, and I can't believe how far it's come.
   
   
   
   
9. Do I Really Have to Give It Away?
   The attachment phase kicks in. After all the ups and downs, it’s hard to imagine parting with this creation. But I made it for someone, and they deserve to see its beauty too. Sigh.
10. I Love, Love It!
    After all the emotions, I sit back and admire the final piece. It was a journey filled with twists and turns, but in the end, it’s a labor of love. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Every painting is an emotional adventure, from start to finish. These stages make the process fun, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. And yes, sometimes it’s hard to let go, but there’s always the next canvas waiting for its turn on the emotional rollercoaster!

Check out the behind-the-scenes photos of these stages and see how my emotions shape each painting.

Shop now at jodykeenart.com.au and dive into the world of art where emotion meets creativity.
Be sure to explore my acrylic paintings and other creative works while you're there!