The Artist's Way

Pointed criticism, if accurate, often gives the artist an inner sense of relief: “Ah, hah! so that’s what was wrong with it.” Useful criticism ultimately leaves us with one more puzzle piece for our work.

This chapter explains these tools carefully and in depth. Please read it with special care and begin the immediate use of both tools.

The exercises in each week are critical. So are the morning pages and the artist date. (More

You will discover the joy of practicing your creativity. The process, not the product, will become your focus.

9. . Select one small item and make it a goal for this week. 10. Now do that item.

The act of making art exposes a society to itself. Art brings things to light. It illuminates us. It sheds light on our lingering darkness. It casts a beam into the heart of our own darkness and says, “See?”

3. . List five childhood accomplishments. (straight A’s in seventh grade, trained the dog, punched out the class bully, short-sheeted the priest’s bed). And a treat: list five favorite childhood foods. Buy yourself one of them this week. Yes, Jell-O with bananas is okay.

Whatever you think you can do or believe you can do, begin it. Action has magic, grace, and power in it.

2. . Describe five traits you like in yourself as a child.