Shadow Work and the Art Process
What is the connection between shadow work and your artistic practice? In my view, everything.
The influences we encounter in life inevitably make their way into our art, and the reverse is just as true. Confronting our shadows can illuminate areas for growth, our vulnerabilities can strengthen connections, and exploring each we can also highlight our strengths. When we engage in the creative process and start working with our hands, we begin to tap into our feelings more deeply. It’s fascinating how stepping away from our brain side of things allows us to embrace the deeper emotion.
Let’s take a moment to explore some common shadows or limitations. You might identify as a perfectionist, an overthinker, a people pleaser, or a rule breaker, a procrastinator. Our ego can infiltrate our artwork and practice. A perfectionist may hesitate to play and experiment due to fear of the outcome. An overthinker might struggle to get started on their projects. A people pleaser could create art to satisfy others instead of what truly resonates with their soul.
Recently, I’ve faced one of my fears, which has emerged in both my creative pursuits and personal life. The fear of stagnation. This feeling of being stuck compels me to keep moving forward.
At times, this fear can be a blessing. It drives my momentum, ignites various interests, and encourages me to take risks and welcome spontaneity. However, like all shadows, it has its drawbacks. I often find it difficult to remain fully present and struggle to celebrate both the small and significant moments in life without rushing toward future plans.
How does this influence my artistic process? I tend to bounce around too much—I might want to teach, then paint, then switch to landscapes, florals, portraits, and so on. While this variety can be inspiring, it often prevents me from dedicating more time to a single subject.
I have many other shadows to navigate. How am I addressing them? I used to believe that my mind could solve any problem, but I’ve learned humbly that this isn’t the case. The true path forward lies in feeling these emotions within my body. Art is a great outlet to do this as well as some other ideas below.
I am incredibly thankful for the support I’ve received from so many wonderful people—holistically, spiritually, and medically. Some tools that have helped me confront my limitations include somatic work, physical therapy, EMDR, brain spotting, various forms of movement, yoga, leisurely nature walks, establishing simple routines, hands-on creativity, breathwork, distraction-free connections with loved ones, hot and cold therapy, reiki, tarot and oracle cards, road trips, unplugged time, reading, and playing.
Prompt. Write, sketch, paint or art journnal some shadow work responses to the questions below.
How am I limiting myself in my art and practice?
What am I afraid of?
What part of me am I not willing to share with others openly?
When and why am I afraid to show my artwork publically?
What do I judge in others that may be limiting my own life and practice?
How can I create artwork that is more authentic to my soul?
How can your limitations play a positive role in your life?