10 Favorite Art Critiques from Family and Friends

I'VE BEEN an artist for 40 years. It's the only job I've ever had and now it's the only job I'm qualified to do. I work hard – I go to the studio 7 days a week. Over the years I've eliminated any activity not as fun as painting (everything).

THE HARDEST challenge over the years was finding my style. You know – that way of painting that excites every part of your being – that leaves behind all other less authentic ways of expressing yourself. I don't have a name for my style. My hero and artist advocate, Robert Genn, suggested "a unique form of realism" and "designs of nature". And I've used "colorist". I don't know.

AND LET me tell you- it's a great feeling to know you are on the right path. However, halfway through patting myself on the back, I realized that many of the people close to me – family and friends – weren't exactly on board. Some feel I've made a wrong turn and, apparently, some feel that all I need is a honest word to get me back on course. I thought I would share my favorites with you.

1. Is this a Paint-by-Number? (Ouch).

2. I can't wait 'till you stop painting like this.

3. I like your OLD art.

4. I can see why you paint like this – it's faster and you can make more money.

5. You're definitely getting better. Hang in there.

6. But your watercolors were so good.

7. Would you mind changing some colors so it matches the other art on my wall?

8. It looks like a coloring book.

9. I guess you need to get it out of your system. It'll pass.

10. My favorite. A woman held a piece of art in her hands. I asked if she wanted to buy it.  She handed it to me and said, "No- I don't like your art anymore."