Confidence

A friend said to me, “Rita, the way that you describe the process of your art is refreshingly humble and encouraging. Typically an artist doesn’t want to admit there is uncertainty and trial-and-error involved. By showing this vulnerability, the end result is much more personal and gives inspiration to try.”

Molly’s portrait in progresss.

I thought about these words as I heard the well known portrait artist Richard Schmid give his definition of “confidence.”

“Confidence does not come from being able to do something perfectly, confidence comes from knowing that if you don’t do it perfectly you can fix it.”

I have learned over the years working with charcoal portraits that it is the forgiving characteristic of charcoal that keeps me coming back to this medium as I try to improve my skills and technique and gain “confidence.”