V: Vision – The Foundation for Artistic Voice

   Artists often struggle with finding their artistic voice. They want their work to stand out, to be different, and they obsess over what they can do to convince the world that they are one of a kind.

May I suggest that starting with the search for one’s unique voice from the beginning is just like trying to build a house from the roof down? It simply won’t work. First, an artist must discover what is unique about their vision – and then the task is simple: take that one-of-a-kind perspective and give it a voice, either through music, writing, or visual art.

And don’t doubt yourself for a second! Just as every person has a totally unique fingerprint, every person has a totally unique perspective on life and the human experience. And that means that every single one of us has something completely unique – and completely amazing – to offer the world!

Take my family, for example. A few days ago we visited my parents for Easter, and my mother began talking with my seven-year-old daughter about what God looks like. Here’s what they came up with:

“I think God is giant,” said the seven-year-old. “He wears size 100 shoes. He is big so He can see everything!”

“Well, I think of God as a Father,” my mother responded. “A gentle, loving Man who can enfold me in His arms and keep me safe from all the terrible things raging around me. He is the Daddy that I never had. You know, everyone has a father, but not everyone has a Daddy.”

Two completely different visions, and two perfect opportunities for artistic voice and creative expression.

What about your vision do you feel is totally unique to you? Once you find it, hold onto it – because you’ve just done what every artist dreams of. You’ve just found your artistic voice.

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