Going Up the Mountain

August 1, 2024


There’s a certain magic to hiking. Rare is the trail that begins with a glorious view. More often than not, you find yourself trudging uphill, surrounded by dense trees and rocky paths, before the landscape unfolds in a breathtaking panorama. Art making mirrors this journey in profound ways. Just as the mountain climber ascends through challenges to reach an expansive vista, artists navigate their creative paths, often finding that the most rewarding perspectives come only after persevering through the weeds.

The Climb Begins

At the outset of any creative endeavor, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might face self-doubt, creative blocks, or simply the weight of expectations—both your own and those imposed by society. Just as a hiker must push through fatigue and uncertainty, artists must embrace the initial struggle to foster growth.

In those early stages, the view may feel limited. Ideas can seem disjointed, and the connections between them elusive. It’s in this challenging landscape that the seeds of creativity are often sown. Each stroke of the brush, every note played, or word written contributes to your ascent, even if it doesn’t feel that way in the moment.

Importance of Staying the Course

The key to reaching new heights in both hiking and art is persistence. It’s vital to stay the course, even when the trail becomes steep and rocky. Getting through the weeds, no matter how difficult, is crucial. The creative journey is rarely linear; it involves twists, turns, and unexpected obstacles.

Just as a hiker might encounter a sudden rainstorm or a particularly challenging incline, artists face their own set of hurdles. But every challenge presents an opportunity for growth. Embrace the process, allow yourself to explore, and remember that every effort contributes to your overall journey.

Expanding Your Field of Vision

As you persist in your artistic endeavors, something magical happens: your field of vision expands. With every completed piece, every failure, and every moment of inspiration, you start to make connections and associations that were previously invisible.

This is where the real magic of the creative process unfolds. You begin to see how different elements of your work relate to one another, and your understanding of your medium deepens. Just as the hiker reaches a vantage point to see the entire valley below, you gain a broader perspective on your art and its place in the world.

Embracing New Perspectives

As you climb higher in your creative journey, you may find that you’re only steps away from an entirely new perspective. This could manifest as a breakthrough in your technique, a fresh idea for a project, or a new way of viewing the world around you.

It’s important to keep your destination firmly in mind, even when the path is obscured. Trust that the challenges you face are part of your growth. The view from the summit is often worth every difficult step taken along the way.

View from the Top

In both hiking and art making, the journey is as valuable as the destination. While the view from the top is breathtaking, it’s the climb itself that shapes your experience and understanding.

The next time you feel stuck or overwhelmed in your creative pursuits, remember the mountain. Embrace the climb, stay the course, and trust that every step brings you closer to the expansive vista awaiting you. With patience and perseverance, you’ll discover new heights in your artistic journey that will take your breath away.