An Artist's Oath: Embracing My Creative Journey with Purpose

In my journey as an artist, I have found that creating with intention and purpose is as vital as the art itself. Recently, while immersed in the pages of The Artist's Joy by Merideth Hite Estevez, I was deeply moved by the idea of grounding my creative process in a personal commitment to my craft. This book has been a guiding light, reminding me that the principles I choose to uphold nurture joy and growth as an artist.

Creativity is tapas, not pie illustration inspired by The Artist Joy created by Jenny Gallo of Carrot Top Studio.

Art inspired by The Artist's Joy by Merideth Hite Estevez. Read the book to learn more!

Motivated by Estevez's reflections, I felt encouraged to formalize these principles into an Artist's Oath. I am a firstborn, so this serious, rules-following task is right up my alley!

But, this exercise is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a declaration of the values that shape my work, a reminder to stay true to my creative spirit, and a way to honor the stories and connections my art seeks to celebrate. By putting these commitments into words, I hope to deepen my dedication to my art and to the community that supports and inspires me.

I, Jenny Gallo, artist and creator, solemnly affirm the following:

  1. To Honor My Craft: I will approach my artistic endeavors with respect, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, recognizing that each stroke, stitch, and design carries the weight of my passion and vision.

  2. To Embrace Creativity: I will nurture my creative spirit, allowing it to explore freely and fearlessly, embracing both the triumphs and the mistakes as integral parts of my artistic journey.

  3. To Celebrate Stories: I will weave narratives into my creations, ensuring that each piece I produce is imbued with meaning, purpose, and a touch of the human experience, honoring the stories of those who wear and cherish my work.

  4. To Cultivate Inspiration: I will seek inspiration in the world around me, from the grandeur of nature to the subtleties of everyday life, and channel this inspiration into my art, infusing it with a sense of wonder and joy.

  5. To Foster Connection: I will strive to create pieces that resonate with others, fostering connections through my art that transcend words and touch the hearts and souls of those who encounter my work.

  6. To Pursue Growth: I will continually seek to grow and evolve as an artist, embracing new techniques, ideas, and challenges with an open mind and a curious heart, never settling for complacency.

  7. To Share My Journey: I will openly share my artistic journey, including the highs and lows, with my community, inviting others to witness and partake in the beauty of the creative process.

  8. To Uphold Integrity: I will maintain honesty and integrity in all my artistic endeavors, ensuring that my work is a true reflection of my values, beliefs, and the authenticity of my artistic voice.

  9. To Cherish Each Creation: I will treat each piece I create with care and reverence, recognizing that it holds a piece of my soul and a fragment of my story, destined to bring light and love into the world.

  10. To Serve with Love: I will remember that my art is not only a form of self-expression but also a service to others, creating with love and gratitude, and offering my creations as gifts to uplift, inspire, and bring joy.

In taking this oath, I commit to a life of artistic integrity, boundless creativity, and unwavering dedication to my craft, now and always.


Thanks for letting me share!

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Jenny Gallo

Jenny Gallo is the artist and owner of Carrot Top Studio. Since 2004 Carrot Top Studio has sold unique, handmade ministry stoles and related products to a global clientele. The first chapter of her professional life permitted her to teach art in Chicago, Houston and Pittsburgh. Her B.S. in Art Education was earned from The Pennsylvania State University. Jenny Gallo resides in the Detroit, MI area.

http://www.CarrotTopStudio.com
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