I think u have an audience used to realism and you made a change. Your paintings are really lovely. It’s just a different audience so it takes time to find this new audience

@teresathompsonart1007

22 күн бұрын

Very true

@user-io2tf2xr3n

19 күн бұрын

I was thinking the exact same thing.

@BijouPrunelle

5 күн бұрын

Yes exactly. It seems pretty obvious. Well let's hope she finds her new audience.

The lesson you're learning is that you built up one audience and now you're building up a new audience. You'll get there. Full disclosure: I'm talking to myself here too 😅

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Haha thank you very much - best of luck to the both of us! ;)

@MissShembre

21 күн бұрын

I 1000% agree with this! My art business is broken up into 3-4 different parts. What works for one might have cross over with the others, but not always.

Hi! I just purchased your abstract no. 6, and I’m beyond excited for my daughters, my husband, and myself to enjoy it forever! Please please please continue to make art that brings you joy- your pieces will find homes where they spread your joy to others! 💕

My superpower is that I never assume any of my paintings will sell. Sometimes my paintings sell 2-3 years afterwards. It’s always in person to someone who really connects with the piece.

It’s normal for scientists to experiment and “fail” regularly, however it’s not called failure, it’s known as “adding to the body of knowledge”. Therefore every experiment is a success. I’m a lecturer in Design and I teach “Fail Fast” methodology, this is a way of learning through intended failure, pushing until something breaks, then addressing that problem and moving on, it’s a repetitive process which eventually leads to the correct solution to the problem (ideally!). Your paintings are really excellent, in my humble opinion I think you should paint two different series, one on mushrooms and the other abstract landscapes. I see a touch of the genius of Ivon Hitchens in your work. Just keep painting, you’ll figure it all.

Abstract art does have a tendency to polarize. It's the age-old story for artists... we do what inspires and excites us (and we starve) 😮 or do what sells and pay the bills 😅 best we can do is just find that balance. Thank you for sharing. It helps us realize that we are all in the same boat!

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Amen! That's why my next piece is a commission 😅

@MrArtist7777

25 күн бұрын

Very true, which is why Van Gough only sold 1 painting, in his entire life, was broke, depressed and suicidal. Rough way to live!

@peacockandfig

24 күн бұрын

@@MrArtist7777not true - he wasn’t broke, he lived very well because his brother gave him money to live on. He ate in the pubs and restaurants as he couldn’t/didn’t want to cook, and he “bathed” in brothels. And there is talk that he wasn’t suicidal when he died - his brother Theo (an art agent and dealer) was going to cut off or reduce his monthly allowance because him and his wife Jo were expecting their second child and needed the money for that. Vincent was in a great artistic time at that point - his work was starting to get popular and known, and he was exploring the work of other artists and doing some really neat work. This is all in his letters to Theo, he was very inspired and in a very good place mentally at that point. But he also didn’t know how to or want to support himself in a meaningful way if Theo cut off his allowance, so there is speculation that he was just trying to wound himself (for pity, to make Theo realize he still needed his help and money, etc), but he screwed up and ended up fatally wounding himself. The way the bullet entered his body and the weapon he chose, researchers and historians are now saying that didn’t make sense if he was actually trying to kill himself. His work was great, and it was sellable, he just wasn’t the most personable dude and was totally crap at marketing himself. When Theo died not long after, it was Jo who did years and years of hard work getting his story out there, his letters, his art. There’s a great new book about her out, it talks about how she “created” Van Gogh as we know him, got his work out there. So don’t buy into the stereotypes of the starving artist (that trope is from a novel in the 1800s by the way), it doesn’t help anyone and it’s not true. Like Michelangelo was very rich, they found his “bank records” so to speak, he absolutely was not poor.

I can absolutely feel your pain. I am writing this in tears rolling over my cheeks. I use to paint a lot in my childhood and in teen age time, mainly acrylic and oil paintings. But as for Asian parents, academics and good career is more important than one’s own talents and passion. Hence, I left painting completely and pursued a medical profession. Got married and now I am a mother of 2 little children. Now I am planning to restart my passion and going to do my first ever painting project after 15 years for my little KZread channel. Wish me luck 🍀

@tonibauerlein5806

17 күн бұрын

You are brave! Bravo! I wish you good luck. Hope to catch your channel.

@FuzzyBunnyofInle

14 күн бұрын

Wishing you the best of luck & joy in doing something for yourself.

@daytonmorehead7330

12 күн бұрын

Go for it !!!!!

@nancywright4730

11 күн бұрын

I know how your feel, glad you made this video. For me it’s not about selling, although it’s been a really long time. For me it’s about deciding to finally enter exhibitions, painting my heart out, paying the entry fee for the exhibition and then not getting accepted. This is to shows I’ve been accepted to in the past. So 5 times in a row. Very nice letters followed the declined status, but none the less🤔

@Livelife_light

10 күн бұрын

I am following you now! Hope this uplifts you!

I adore this video. Not only is it stunning, but it's vulnerable, and, as a fellow artist struggling with failure, very relatable. I'm a surrealist artist, so I think your paintings are genuinely stunning, and if I could afford one I would jump on it. Sadly it's been a tough few years, and I can't support other artists as much as I keep wishing I could. I'm so glad to see that a couple have now sold!

I have had paintings that I had for 2-3 years before they sold for the price that I wanted, its all about waiting for the right buyer to see the work.Its all about patience, just keep creating and increasing your portfolio.

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Thanks for the encouragement Roger - I'm working on my patience!

@MrArtist7777

25 күн бұрын

Meanwhile, go complete broke and depressed, which is what I did when painting full time. It's an extremely difficult profession, to say the least.

@Chris_P_

22 күн бұрын

Art and selling said art is a weird and fickle experience! It’s probably a bad idea to have expectations about sales. I recently sold two paintings I honestly thought I’d never sell. I have never found sales to be predictable. I’ve followed my heart and made very little money; I’ve put forth minimal effort and had great success. Often there’s no rhyme or reason! Behaviour in the art industry does not guarantee the same results as in the ‘real world’ (ie. work hard and you’ll see results … just isn’t always true in art). There’s a reason why, in days of old, artists had patrons who gave them a stipend to keep them afloat during hard times. I wish you all the best Brooke 🩷 If you get the chance, read ‘Big Magic’ by Elizabeth Gilbert. It’s terrific!

@izetteroos6888

18 күн бұрын

Hahaha! I have been an artist for 25 years and only ever sold any works to direct family and one major work to a collector. That is it. Still exhibiting every 2 years where possible but opportunities are hard to come by

@ausrabartkute-deviatnikova3817

18 күн бұрын

Wish You good luck. I am often not selling my works for long periods, or selling them cheapper than I would like. Sometimes, if I stuck with sellings, I even begin giving my paintings away for free.. or repaint them on top.. what is the worst scenary.. usually i am sorry about that later, because i like all my paintings.. Sometimes, when I can not sell my paintings for longer terms, i go to regular work/job.. and it feels realy not joyful for me to work as a secondary school teacher, or an omniscient , or a builder, etc., because I love painting so so much, I am a professional artist with master degree of arts.. woth the 20 years practice of painting.. but I am a very bad seller.. You are great, because You introduce Your works very proudly. Other artists(including me) are afraid to do even that.. I am always afraid to say something good about my works loud. I never say anything good even about my best works. I show them on exhibitions, but I never manage to speak about them. Other people speak, sometimes they even write great articles about my art, bimut I never manage to speak about my art proudly myself :( I have invested so much time and money to my not small collection of large scale paintings (from 100*100cm, to 170*200cm), and often am in a situation, when I do not sell anything for a half of a year or even a whole year.. Sometimes galleries sell some peace, but it is not enough even for simple living, for food, clothes and etc. for me and my two teenage Daughters.. so, Dear Brooke Cormier, I understand You so so so... The world is not always very fare.. and, as it seems for me, the best selling artists are always those, who are the best managers, who may bravely say loud "I am the best in the world!!", even if they are not.. 😢 Wish You stay brave. You are youg and You may learn that breave loud speaking about You and Your works. Keep working. Stay healthy. If You have Your husband to help You woth bills, stay in arts and do not go to sell Your energy in other jobs.. it'll take too much energy, Your time, and it'll take Your confidence from You.. Try Your best to stay with Your passion of painting 🙏❤️

Im never inclined towards abstract art, more of a realism lover myself. But these paintings are so beautiful and aesthetic. Can't believe no one bought them.

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Well coming from a non-abstract lover, I really appreciate that haha 🙏

Brook, YOU ARE AWESOME!! The "valley" paintings of artists sometimes become the most profound work of an artist. By doing these paintings you are automatically going to expand your audience. You're expanding your audience right now by posting such a vulnerable topic which only adds to the very authentic person you are; which is what I love about you! People need these stories because it creates connection. You will experience connection as well and you will be greatly encouraged by it. Don't lower your price but definitely have prints available for these paintings. Times are hard for so many and inflation is hitting us all so having art that appeals to every budget will definitely be the way to go for us tight-budgeters and we will be forever grateful. I have a goal and that is to save a few dollars a month so that I can purchase one of your originals and you know what?,... it will be worth it! In the meantime, I am more than happy to be patient and thoroughly enjoy journeying with you in your process as an artist. These pieces of art will speak to so many right when they need it; just as this video will. Finally, remember your true identity. You are Brook Cormier who is an authentic, genuine, sassy, witty, caring, giving, wise, tea-drinking of a person;...a human being. Making art and creating things with your hands is NOT who you are. IT IS WHAT YOU DO. We don't just love what you make but, we love you more for who you are! If you tragically lost the ability to use your hands you would not stop being Brook. You would adapt and find another way to be creative or find another way to earn a living. Our connection to you would not be lost. If anything, it would be deepened. I start to get a little excited when failure occurs....that lets me know that growth is about to happen! Keep walking up that hill. We are here walking along side you in the process!

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Wow this comment brought tears to my eyes - thank you so much for saying this Cara, it really means so much to me. Knowing there are people like you who are cheering me on gives me so much motivation! I'm so grateful for your words, more than you can know! 💛

@MoongirlArt

25 күн бұрын

Cara made such good points and I totally agree! I LOVE your work. It is all amazing and your talent inspires me. I have to admit that I especially love you mushroom pieces including September (it reminds me of the forests here in Nova Scotia) but I especially love one that was probably from your first set of abstract mushroom pieces where it was mostly white. It was just so very beautiful and I hoped to own a print of it someday as prints are more realistic goals for me for now anyways. So don’t fret-so easy for me to say, I know-because perhaps your ‘regular’ audience showed up for your more realistic and equally beautiful paintings and just need time to adjust to a more multifaceted YOU. I love your brave heart. Keep going!! ❤️

Just a month!? That's fine!! You have such high expectations! Keep producing and forget them for now. I think what might be happening is that there is not enough abstraction for the abstract lovers, and too much abstract painting for the mushroom lovers. Also, whilst mushrooms the have a strong core following, they're still a very nieche thing, so this was certainly an experiment. My impression is that the type of people who like large abstract works are more mainstream people who like conventional interior decorating beloved by rich people they see in magazines. They associate mushrooms with long haired hippies, and those who are not very familiar with mushrooms, might only associate them with poison. Also, yellow & browns are risky colours to put together. For some people, it brings a 70s vibe. For others it reminds me of poo, vomit, or ugly achool uniforms. However, for me, the main mistake was working on an experimental, time-consuming collection and releasing it in one-go. A degree of risk taking is just part of delevopment though!

I'm based in South Africa. If the exchange rate and shipping were in my favour, best believe I would have 1 or 2 of these up in my space to keep me inspired and empowered and creative. Remember, Brooke -- the target market you've built up could just be into realism. You're not the problem, your art isn't the problem; you're maybe just tapping into a different audience to the one you currently have. Like me. Across the world. Please please keep going. Your mushroom series inspired this girl taking a leap into art as a career. So if you'd like a bit of dramatic flare, your mushrooms changed a life! (I know that doesn't pay the bills yet but it will.)

@ciz4cookies

24 күн бұрын

I completely agree with this… If you start out painting a certain way and build your audience, then you switch over to doing something else, you require a different audience. Keep believing in yourself and keep creating and painting what you absolutely love… ❤❤❤ You got this! I, too, am trying to make my way in this art world… I’m just starting out and you have years ahead of me. I am still Inspired even with your failure video… Which isn’t a failure by the way lol. And the comment above… “Your mushrooms changed a life!“… See? You never actually know what people are thinking until you put yourself out there… That’s awesome! You go little mushrooms! 🍄🍄🍄

@christiaanpaulsen3974

22 күн бұрын

Hey! Fellow South African here! And yeah, I completely agree with you. Once I saw her mushroom paintings I felt the urge to shout "I'll buy one!" only to remind myself that we are in a bit of a tough boat when it comes to international payments/ shipping. As a young artist still trying to find his place in the art world, it's really encouraging to hear artists be so vulnerable and honest. And not be afraid to share their highs and lows from their work.

A huge part of being an artist is facing failure.

@BKNeifert

14 күн бұрын

Sometimes you fail for all the wrong reasons, too. Just because of the snobbery of your milieu. And then people in the next generation think you're brilliant. I hope that doesn't happen to me. I'm not a painter, but a writer. But, it's practically the same sort of thing.

Fellow Canadian here: I’m a home organizer and even my clients who own luxury homes are pinching pennies at the moment - a stark difference from 2020/2021/2022. Both the Canadian and American economies are in bad shape and people don’t have the disposable income they once did. Chin up - we will get thru this!!

@stevenmccarthy112

22 күн бұрын

I was selling paintings in Toronto 40 years ago for the same money that people are asking today. Too many hacks have lowered the value of art in this country.

Do not be discouraged by the lack of interest in these artworks, I think it’s really clear you are onto something, the tension between looseness and detailed work is really interesting. I implore you to if anything, GO BIGGER!

Hey Brooke - I absolutely love your videos, and your work. As an artist and illustrator who's been working for 15+ years, and works in several different styles (Fine Art, Fantasy/science fiction, and Children's illustration) I've found that you *have* to market the work to the appropriate demographic. From your video, it sounds like what you did was market some highly experimental pieces (which I personally love) to the people who follow and buy your work based on your more traditional / realistic work. The fact that they didn't respond well is not surprising. What I'd recommend doing is establishing a different gallery off your main website (that is, still on your main website, but a subpage) to cater to this new style of work, and even possibly a separate news letter for the people who are interested in it. Keep your main income stream going, and make sure that they continue to get what they're used to and expect (because, let's face it, eating is a good thing), but setting up a specific place, that caters to a specific audience, will allow you to continue to explore and experiment with the mushroom / abstract theme. Mushrooms for the win! :) Anyway, I suspect that you already know this, but I hope it helps. And, remember; you're not a failure unless you quit. The issue is that this just didn't meet your expectations. The pieces can still sell, and when they do, it's a win. (I have a few pieces that have been hanging around for *years* - but every so often, someone comes along and falls in love with it. I can take time. Best, ~S

@ChristopherNorris_CopyGhosting

18 күн бұрын

I couldn't agree more with @SCWatson. Brainstorm tribes of people who might like your mushroom paintings and reach out to them. Here are some starter groups you could explore: #gardeners #environmentalists #restaurants #mushroom_collectors (e.g. glass, ceramic, wooden) #meditation_fans #mushroom_clothing_shoppers Also, reach out to media platforms associated with each of these tribes

I‘m a 40yo woman, faced so many failures in my life. Finally doing what I love… it needs patience, courage and a lot of depressed days… Keep going, you’re a beautiful soul and your art is amazing ❤

I am actually grateful to you for sharing this. People don't understand how courageous and brave it is to be vulnerable. And these are the problems every artist goes through but so little people share about it. You already have been a guide for me and watching you making or actually carving your own way through this world to do what you love is truly inspiring. Thanks a lot for putting efforts consistently into sharing things you are uncomfortable about. ❤❤

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Thank you so much for saying this, it makes it 100% worth it when I know it's helping others! 🧡

@KarlaRaeSmith

25 күн бұрын

I only recently found you…popped up on my Instagram because I happen to like mushrooms. It was this mushroom series that caught my eye actually. It’s a humbling experience to create something that doesn’t sell as fast as you thought it would. You are so talented that a blow to the ego hits hard, but it’s necessary to grow as an artist as well. It’s just the bumpy part of the road. (I’m not one to buy originals but I would totally buy if there were smallish prints available. These are delightful and make me smile)

Watching you paint and take that brave step to experiment and create more freely is incredibly inspiring. I don't normally paint abstract art but this series is amazing and it makes me want to try out more things. I'd love to buy No. 7 or No. 10 but I just cannot afford it. They resonate deeply with me and I'm sure they will with other people and someone will give them a new home. It breaks my heart that you have these difficulties but I think it is truly brave to take steps like these and while it might not have paid off financially yet, I wish you all the best that it will at some point. Thank you so much for sharing this deeply personal story. Truly inspiring!

Hey! I love these abstracts. Not only do I love the fact that they're abstracted, but also love the elements of realism that are mixed in with them. That's my favorite. Also I love the fact that you approach abstract thoughtfully, because so often abstract is viewed as this chaotic, intuitive thing that people should just work through quickly. I love the way that you took the time to lay it out and I can tell that you are extremely thoughtful with the colors that you chose. The color pallets are amazing by the way. But I think what you meant to say was that you haven't sold any of the paintings............yet. Your partner makes a good point. And you're a very intelligent person and I know that you felt through a lot of the stuff about how most of your audience up to this point has not been an audience geared towards the abstract. I know that you've thought through all of those things. It's just going to take a little bit of time for the right people to come. Or, they won't. But this hasn't been wasted time. First of all, the video you made here is beautiful. It's thoughtful, eloquent, well edited, therapeutic for you and for me! I'm very grateful that you took the time to make this video. I do portrait paintings to make money. It's not my favorite style of art to create. I also make these abstracts that I call my blob paintings. They're just blobs. I work hard to try to make them dimensional and fun. They're my favorite things to paint. You know how many I've sold? Zero. I'm scratching my head as to why because I think they're wonderful. But people don't respond to them the same way that they do my figurative pieces and that's okay. I need the blobs! Just like you need the mushrooms I guess. Okay, that doesn't sound exactly right but, you know what I mean. I found this video to be very encouraging, thank you so much. I hope you are encouraged by the process of it all. Your art is definitely valuable, and worth the price that you set for it. Keep on with the keeping on!

@Diane_McDon

2 күн бұрын

You’re a talented writer

My aunty is an artist who did not have any professional success until she was over 50 years old. She had no direction or recognition of her gift for most of her life. But now she is becoming known, having some success, exhibitions in New York and France, and she has thousands of drawings to her name because she just always drew. I tell you this because you have a wonderful visual gift, and you still have all the capacity to create. This current collection may not be understood yet by your audience. But the journey is yours, not ours. Keep painting. Bring up the next canvas, whatever it may be.

Your mushroom paintings are my favorites of yours! I was actually out for a walk with my kids recently and saw some interesting mushrooms growing out of a tree stump and I snapped a pic and thought of you. I’ve been doing festivals a lot during the summer and one of the more crushing experiences was one in my hometown where I didn’t sell a single painting. It’s hard when you put so much work into your art and you love it and believe in its value but it just doesn’t sell. All that to say…Keep making art! Keep exploring! Keep creating! Make the art that you want to make 🩵

@ZiptiesAndButterflies

22 күн бұрын

Perhaps not selling any in your hometown was really a complement depending on the vibe of your hometown. Hopefully, you don't live there anymore...

@MissShembre

21 күн бұрын

Not selling anything or only a few dollars worth of stuff at an event is so crushing! I've had that happen a couple times in the last year. It makes me appreciate the huge wins a bit more.

I accidently came across this as I am researching new ways to sell my artwork. As a fellow artist going through the same process right now (and having gone through reinvention several times over), those paintings are gorgeous. The feeling of shame comes from having the rug of overconfidence being pulled from under our feet. Being successful on a few projects in a row makes us feel that we have finally reached the point where we don't have to deal with failure anymore, especially after long years being disciplined with it. You would think that as you get older, as you get closer to when you should be mastering your craft, such failures would cease to exist - they don't. Artists fail even more spectacularly when they get older. And yes, just because it happens inside our heads, does not make it any less real. What you do improve at is how you deal with failure. We learn to let go, to pick ourselves up, to accept that failure is a lesson in patience, in dettachment and in balance. I have a feeling you'll be painting mushrooms again just to figure out what went wrong. We just can't help ourselves. 😉

Thanks for being vulnerable and sharing this experience with us. I am glad that you are experiementing. Failing can be hard. I hope that you find that thing to learn from it and that you sell some wether or not you continue down the mushroom path or not, it's great that you were brave enough to jump into something new. I really admire that. when it showed the mushroom with the large water droplet hanging my jaw dropped and I had to rewind it to get a closer look. I also really like the last one in the video. Maybe them hanging in the local place will be a springboard into something beautiful. Amazing paintings!

Your paintings are beautiful. Do not doubt yourself. You are already successful just because you are doing what you love.

I so appreciate the vulnerability you shared in this video. I feel this so much. I have been in the same position a few times. -- Here is a chest bump right back at ya. You've got this. Your paintings are beautiful, they will find their audience.

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Thanks a lot Adam, I appreciate that 🙏

I started to really enjoy painting when I came to realise that being concerned with the finished thing - a painting or a sculture or a photograph - is not only distracting but most of all ruins what should be the pleasure of creating. And this is my point: enjoy the act of creating instead of thinking "is this good or bad? Am I a good artist? Why am I not becoming better?" Etc etc etc. i used to nurture such thoughts and as consequence I was a bad artist. Now i paint, i enjoy mixing my colors, the feeling of the brushes on the canvas, the smell of incense and my favorite music in the background. Enjoy the moment, and your art will benefit

Thank you for beeing so honest! You will make your way. Failure is a companion in everybodys life 🙂

I have been an artist for over 20 years, I struggle with the social media side of things, so I don’t sell much. I commend you for putting yourself out there. Your paintings are amazing and they will sell. Sometimes planning what will happen is a recipe for failure. Nothing is coincidence. And the reason will show itself to you. Keep shining, you’re very talented and love your paintings 🙌❤️🙏🏼

One of my first art teachers told me to NEVER UNDERSELL YOURSELF and if it takes time, it takes time. They gave me ways to make money creatively that are no pressure and easy to make. When I get in this space I pick a series or long movie and sit down and work on that mindless stuff that makes me a little money and helps me get over myself sometimes. It doesn't have my name attached to it so it allows me space to abandoned my crippling perfectionism. I don't think you failed. It's just different. It takes people time to adjust. You are a fantastic artist and it's valid to be upset about wanting to work more on passion and interest over a guaranteed check. YOU got this !

Hi Brooke, so many thoughts! Your story resonated with me in so many ways! I am very grateful that you courageously shared “failure”… I too paint, and I have had sooooooo many price discussions, I cant count. I hear… you sell too low, but my experience has been that I sell paintings that are priced lower…..and…..yea…… I dont often sell ones that are priced “right”. So, as an older painter who strayed to complete a 30 year career elsewhere, I am just pretty excited to be selling my work. BUT…. And this is a big but…. When you talked about feeling icky, man….I hear you. So, again… thank you. Your video helped me, so in return, I will tell you that I think your paintings are stunning….full stop. You are a master colorist. Im a fan. Regarding this series, mushrooms may have a subtext, and thats ok. There are simply going to be subjects that speak to some folks and ones that speak to other folks. I subscribed and Im looking forward to seeing what you paint next.

I struggle with this a lot. My art isn't my full-time job, but I struggle with the what sells vs what I like to make side of things as well. And I think that's a very natural struggle that most of us go through. I wish that the world would employ artists full-time just to create. To not have to worry about selling, but just that we as a society saw the value that artists bring to the world and supported them fully to allow them to chase their wildest ideas. That would be a lovely world to live in. This was the first video I've seen of yours and it was great! The pacing of the video was fantastic. I loved how you continued talking about the issue at hand while also showing us the works being created. That really kept my attention on the videos. And watching you paint was fascinating. The brush strokes were super interesting to watch the various techniques you used to apply the paint to the canvas. So from that perspective, I loved that art (the video) that you put out into the world. I thought the paintings were great too!

I am a huge fan of your abstract mushroom artwork, it's the fist time I watch you. Congratulations and thank you for your openness. Your art is absolutely stunning. All the best of luck for you.

Thank you so much for sharing your feelings and your "failures". Most of artist/youtubers share they success and stuff but we barely know whats behind it, or we see them like unreachable people, but you show the human and real side of this kind of life and thats a brave move. I accompany you and motivate you to keep going! because your work is marvelous

I so very much understand your feelings. I’ve painted only about 5 years and have just started trying to sell, and it is HARD! For what it’s worth, I’ll give my suggestion. I love your realism work, and only wish I were half as accomplished. Personally, I don’t care for highly abstract art. Some absolutely do love it though, and I understand being burnt out and bored. I believe they will sell to the right person, but you may have to be patient. You have built a robust following for your style, and the abstracts are quite different. Still beautiful, and by no means a failure, but stylistically different. And it may take time to broaden your audience and support base. Since you are a full time artist and dependent upon sales, I would personally try to take a diverse approach and do some “safe” realism pieces and alternate some abstracts and other styles you’d like your explore. That would give an opportunity for you to find the best market for your abstracts while still having security financially. But by no means are you a failure. You have tremendous talent, your work is quite exceptional, and your candor is refreshing.

DONT CHANGE! I'm right there with you! Changed my style 7 months ago and.... not one has sold. You're work is so beautiful- it reflects your passion for nature and mycophillia. It's unique and well crafted❤. Thanks for sharing. It sucks but everything that comes from strife is the most resilient in the end. Scar tissue is stronger that regular tissue

Failure is a crucial part of success. Truthfully. You are a wonderful artist and not every leap of faith ends gracefully. Keep leaping ❤

I totally love your mushroom series. I am an artist too and the work I sell is mostly realism portraits. Currently I need a break from it and am embarking on free and abstract work which is good for my soul but not my bank account! So glad I came across your video, its exactly what I needed to hear! Your work is beautiful and thank you for the inspiration to keep going xxxx

They’re stunning! I love the textures and color play. Definitely not a failure, though I understand it feels that way. It’s not your standard living room art, which means it is targeting a new kind of audience for you and waiting for them to find your work. Sending comfort vibes!

So glad you shared this. Perhaps 'failure' isn't quite the right word, but I understand. Creatively, it was a big success. Economically, it was a temporary setback. There are no mistakes in art categorically speaking. Perhaps business and art were never really meant to be partners. However, it's the world we live in. You could try keeping the abstract and realism as separate ventures, like having 2 children, each with their own volitions. Fascinating. Too many thoughts to write down. Thanks again, though. You truly are an artist!

Hi Brooke, Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and insights! I've learned that the best approach is to focus on the joy of painting and let go of the outcome. When we concentrate too much on selling and allow fear to dictate our actions, it often backfires. We can't control whether the paintings sell or not. You've done your marketing and everything you could; now, it's time to trust that the right people will come. I understand that this is not easy when you are in desperate need of money. I also believe your paintings would be a fantastic fit for cafes or herbal shops. I'm in a similar situation right now as I've transitioned from realistic pet portraits to painting my own ideas, primarily fantasy themes using gouache and oils. I haven't posted anything online yet because I'm worried it might appear less professional due to the "childish" themes. However, it makes my heart happy, and I know it's the right path for me. Keep following your passion, and trust that your unique style will resonate with those who truly appreciate it.

There absolutely beautiful!! I love them. Especially the one with the 3 long red musshrooms. Beautiful

As you have so vulnerably shared Brooke, failures happen to all artists and other creative beings some of the time and it is hard and heartbreaking and can be temporarily paralyzing. My best guess from what you have shared is that it is not any one thing but a collection of factors that have impacted your sales of this new work. However, the only thing that would have been truly devastating would have been if you had not taking the risks to paint where your energy was taking you and to under price the value you saw in the work. My only advice is what I give myself when a project or series fails and that is to keep going - pull out a canvas or wood panel and pick up the brushes and start another series in the direction you want to take your work. This demonstrates to yourself AND your art collectors that you believe in the process and you trust that you and your audience will catch up to the work in due course. Not all work initially finds its forever home. It simple has to wait its turn or sometimes eventually is painted over or put in the burn pile. What never fails us is our painting practice as long as we keep painting and are true to ourselves. To remain resilient is to keep taking risks as an artist and not all those risks will lead to a paycheque right away. On a more personal note I have a rather unusual way of managing the paycheque pressure as an artist. To ensure I can take as much risk as I dare, I keep one year of operating money in the bank. This way when something fails I tell myself I have a year to sort it out. Or if I want to try something that is a stretch outside what I usually do then I say to myself, I have a year before I need to decide for sure if this is a lost approach for either me or my art collector base. This might not be possible right at this juncture for you Brooke but it is something worth working towards even if it means stepping back to paint what you know you have a market for a little while. Many artists keep what they call their bread and butter work going while still stretching the heck out of their potential to do more. I am not sure if any of this will be of use or value to you so take what resonates and toss the rest! Thanks for stepping up and sharing the tough stuff along with your successes.

Failure!! Each person I feel as a view on what failure means to them. To me it's not trying, not doing what our heart is singing for us to venture beyond our scope to try.

Thanks for sharing. Your reflections are thought-provoking and helpful to think through the difference of making art for oneself versus also as a business. I get the sense that for painting one of the joys and benefits, but also perhaps one of the dangers, is that solo self-expression can be so central that the audience is not given as much thought as in the other arts. In theater, crafting an experience for the audience is much more central to the daily grind, you literally stage the scenes turned out to an imaginary audience! Similarly, before a film can even be made (unless you are self-funding) you’ll have to pitch the script (i.e. “blueprint”) to investors and convince them there is an audience for the work that will justify their investment, and plan about how to market to reach that specific audience. Keep up the good work, Brooke! I hope this moment only makes you stronger.

Your words comforted me a little today. I'm just at the beginning of my journey, still somehow, i can relate to this absolute soul crushing anxiety. I'm really proud of the work i do and always hope for good things and for brighter times, but I always end up in the dark. Always hoping that people would love what I create too, but not seeing any response, whatsoever. And to be honest, I don't even know what I'm getting wrong. I just want people to see my passion and my sincerity. P.S. Your compositions and the way you use colors is Absolutely Gorgeous!

I actually really love these! Hope you keep exploring this series and do more abstracts :-)

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Thank you! I appreciate it :)

I just had a project I'd been working on (writing a videogame for a studio) that just got killed after writing and outlining for nearly 6 months. Failure sucks and, as you said, can kinda make you question if you're doing the right thing (even more so when your income is tied to that..). The worst thing is that it can also make you question the success you're having or have had. Personally, my own channel is finally hitting its stride, but is still in the shadow of having months of work just getting cut on a random Monday. But failure is part of the process. Doors open, doors close, and we have to keep on keepin' on. Thanks for the video, sharing your thoughts, and showing us your art. I loved the Mushroom series by the way!

@b.cormier

25 күн бұрын

Very well said! Sorry to hear about your videogame project, but sounds like you have the right attitude to keep going, and that's all that matters 🙌

@wrestlingwithwords

25 күн бұрын

@@b.cormier Exactly! ❤

Dear Brooke--You hit all my artist buttons and I identify. Thank you for sharing your beautiful, inspired paintings as well as your personal experience with staying creative and following your inner creative light, even when more financially daring, at the moment, than how your regular fare does. We must keep testing ourselves, following inner creative guidance, and stay brave to enjoy the art gift given us. Be well~

Oh Brooke . . . I’ve been going through the same thing. I’ve been painting for over 40 years and my style has always been tight realism. I now have serious vision issues where focusing on detail is exhausting. I can still do it, but it now takes forever and the pleasure is gone. I’m so fired up with abstract now and incorporating it into looser realism, and that’s what I’m doing. I know my followers are probably not into it, but I’m game on working to find new fans. I’ve decided life is too short to keep painting things begrudgingly only to please others. That’s not what art is for me. I’ve been working on some pieces now that excite me so much, I run down to the studio in the mornings to see the previous day’s work. That’s how I know I’m doing the right thing. Follow your heart, your passion, and what excites you. You’re going to find collectors.

Thank you for being so vulnerable. I keep seeing artist share how they sell sell and sell, but hearing the times where they struggle really would benefit us artists who look up to them. I definately look up to you! Still hope you go to an art fair someday so I can come meet you!

You built your following on your previous style. People follow you and buy your art because they like what you did. Think about how long it took to build that following, then put it into perspective that your new style is much like starting over. That's not "failure", it's a new beginning. I'm not dismissing the frustration and anxiety from putting so much work into the new series and not seeing a financial return or even much validation about the work. Many artists have felt alienated when they've made the bold choice to follow their inspiration only to find their new work maligned. Congratulations to you for trying something more real and more authentic. Sending you all good wishes to you as you grapple with what direction you want to go in the future. It's really a dilemma when what you're known and loved for no longer satisfies your soul. I've been in your position. I chose to follow my heart. It cost me financially but I simply could not continue what I was doing previously. Things have settled a bit now (5 years later) and I'm genuinely happy with my "new" life. I feel I made the right choice for me. It might not be the same for you.

I just have to say Brooke, I really love your new style. I just found your channel recently, and started with your older videos. While I found your realism art style beautiful, my jaw DROPPPED when I saw your abstract work on your website! I truly believe that you can tell when someone loves their work. And that was the instant first impression I got when I saw this abstract mushroom series. I can see the passion you put into it. And while it may take a moment for you to develop the right audience for it, I ask you to please not give up. I’m sure there’s a way you can balance your new and old style while you transition audiences. I would also like to point out that your new style is already attracting the right audience. Because I’m here right now and I LOVE this collection! Unfortunately, I am not in a place financially to be able to afford one of your original abstract paintings. I sincerely wish I could. But I am just now starting my artist career and we all know how that is 😅 But this series genuinely sparks so much joy for me and quite a few of your other followers, based on what I’ve read from other commenters. It will do the same for so much more ❤❤

Chin up Brooke. I see others have given the same advice which is, keep a balance between what pays the bills an exploring new ideas. One day you'll be so famous, people will be fighting over to buy the little known mushroom series. That's how art sells, sometimes its more about the artist than the art.

Thank you so much for sharing. This is so timely. I am about 4 months into this and I have been feeling like a failure myself. It's so hard to keep up with the different parts of selling yourself as an artist and selling your art. For what it's worth, if I had the money, I would purchase one, and I'm usually not a fan of abstract work. I love the tones you've created and I feel that it would make a lovely addition to a home.

Love your honesty, most artists find what they are good at and tend to stick to it, for obvious reasons, trying something new is commendable, and whether they sold or not, please see it as a great success! O and I think they will sell as they are great! new subscriber ☺

I feel like I nearly had a complete mental breakdown a few months back for similar reasons. Nothing was selling and yet I made a video on my paintings and their prices and I literally had over a thousand people who were saying how criminally underpriced my work was. It was so frustrating to hear people say that and yet nothing was selling. I felt like a complete failure and ended up throwing away two original paintings. I also relate to sitting on my site live and watching people abandoned their carts 🥲 It’s so much easier said than done but I’ve just had to come to peace with the fact that paintings most likely won’t sell immediately. I took some time away from commissions which were burning me out like crazy to focus on painting what I want to paint and my mental health. I think your abstract work is so unique and beautiful and I TREASURE having one of your abstract originals. I know feeling like a failure is horrible but I think it’s so much more common among artists that any of us realize. Thanks for sharing, YOU ARE NOT ALONE ♥️♥️♥️

Long post ahead, sorry. Thank you for being so real. I personally feel a lot like a failure because I keep questioning if it's social media sucking and not showing my work to people anymore, or if it's actually me suddenly sucking. It's hard to sell work like that, and even if I know times are tough, it takes time to build a loyal audience if you have to start over, etc, that feeling of self doubt still creeps in, because what if? I can't fully rationalise it away. So I've found that in order to move on from it I gotta let myself feel a bit like a failure even if it's not my fault or me doing anything wrong. It just helps me be okay with the feeling of disappointment, and knowing that I'm ultimately not doing what I do solely for money or validation. As you say, sure, one does need to make a living. But I think there's a happy middle ground where you can do both. Failure sucks, but it tempers you in a way as well, I think. Anyway, I really hope you sell your mushroom paintings soon. They're beautiful and I can see the joy you had in trying out different techniques and experimenting more!

Brooke, your feelings come across. We are with you. You are a normal person. You plan something. You have expectations and they are not met. You feel shit. And you had the courage to “bare all” about it in a KZread video. You said you were proud. You SHOULD BE proud at your wonderful new abstract styles and process. I especially love the “watery & splashy” parts, like at 4 mins and 30 secs in. It thrills me and I would love to learn more about how you do that / what you are trying to achieve when you take that kind of risk. Please keep finding YOUR artistic style. Sales or no sales. I too favour abstract over representational work these days . . . allowing abstract to just happen fires me up much more than just creating something that another person might recognise. I honestly really am excited by what I see in your abstracts. I cannot buy one. I have had zero income since the pandemic. Fortunately my wife has work coming in, so we can pay the rent and buy food. This is just me. I really like your abstract art work. I am not so keen on the mushrooms. I think that that is because thy are too recognisable, representational. Don’t get me wrong, I too love mushrooms, in particular I love growing my very own oyster mushrooms! Mushrooms are seriously cool. But I wonder if you could separate this work into two separate new lines of Brooke Cormier art - 1) BC mushroom art and 2) BC abstract art . . .

Thank u for sharing , all u see is people being “successful” or selling art. For an artist that doesn’t sell often despite trying. I consider you a success that I could only dream to achieve. So it’s refreshing and encouraging

Hi Brooke, maybe it is more about the artist than about the painting. People want to have a Cromier hanging at their wall, not so much a still life or a landscape painting. Sign your works with confidence and pride, just like Vincent and Pablo did. And then, self marketing, self marketing, self marketing with your back straight. After a while your works will start to sell by themselves. Why? Because people want to have a Cromier hanging at their wall. Good luck!

As someone who just found your channel, I really love some of your work. I went to check your first video (since I saw it was from a long time ago, to check your progression) and I really like your usual technique and cleanliness. Finding this video is a bit saddening, but it seems to me that (as you said) every artist feels this way at some point (sometimes more than once) ... so, you understand that it's "normal" to feel like this at times. I haven't been able to find the motivation to paint certain things I want to paint... weird how that happens sometimes too - so at least you aren't suffering this other type of "setback" :P Don't be discouraged from continuing your "shroomy voyage", as these new paintings might not be popular but they might be part of the process you are going through to finding something that will click with people, but irrespective of the popularity of them... They can be (and are probably will be) just as important for you... whether they sell or not. My personal opinion of these paintings is that they seem freer, a bit surreal and - in general - more explorative than your usual work (the one I have seen on the few videos on the channel at least), so they are interesting. I like the colors and the mix between the dreamy shapes and the shrooms; and also, between the rougher strokes and the more finely detailed elements. Perhaps I would like more of it, as certain areas seem too empty and sometimes it might look like a first pass or second pass (or w/e you call say in English when the painting isn't quite done yet), where the artist is taking a break and will come back to finish that area. I feel like a third conceptual element could help it too, as maybe all the elements in a painting together could create an interesting shape against the negative space of the background color (I'm more of a visual person so I'm not sure if I'm explaining this well enough so you understand what I mean) - if you did do this, I failed to find these shapes, hehe. Abstract number 8 and 12 are my faves btw! Anyways, I reallyr-really like a lot of the work I have seen and sorry for the wall of text! Cheer up! PS: At least you have a fancy garden and surrounding beautiful natural view to rest and get inspired again! :)

Absolutely right, your career is amazing and far from over, if it ever ends. Your audience is hooked on your usual amazing realism style, and any big change will take time to reach a different audience that loves this AMAZING combination of abstract/surrealism/realism. I don’t know if the paintings were done in the same order as the video but the more I watched the better they got. So beautiful. And yes i do think it can reach a different audience for sure in time.

I think what you did and why you intended to make the art work was a great idea! Letting your brain explore new things and new ways of painting only makes you a better artist. It doesn't matter about the outcome because you're pushing your limits and boundaries. That will only ever lead to you becoming more proficient and more expressive artist. Although you didn't sell them I think your brain probably enjoyed it and will want to take more risks as an artist. You are becoming who you want to be, not who the customers want you to be as an artist! Well done ❤ Keep making the art that makes you happy 😊

Hi Brook! Thanks for sharing. Please know that failing is ok. You are not a failure as an artist, much less as a person. In order to be successful, there are going to be some bumps along the way. And that is what makes us learn and grow. Different failures are ahead, be sure of that. But they will only lead to a greater success down the road. Keep enjoying your ride. Congrats on the great work and, mostly, on being true to yourself. All the best to you ❤

I LOVE your work - just looking at your paintings makes me feel, happy.

Omg thank you so much for sharing this ❤ needed to hear this today! I’ve followed your work for years and genuinely love what you did with your mushroom series, it’s so joyful and fresh. I really do believe they’re just waiting to find their forever homes. I always try to remind myself that most buyers need 7 touch points to make a purchase, no matter how much they love and want something. They’ll find their people ❤

I just think your new collection may cater to different audiences but dont be discouraged your doing awesome! I love both processes.

Thank you so much for sharing your process and being real about your feelings. As a (mostly formerly) working artist I SO get it about your creativity pulling you one direction, and your established client base wanting you to "keep playing the hits" as it were. If I have the $ right now, I'd but #8 in a hot minute. All your work is outstanding. I hope perhaps the the video creates more interest in these lovely abstracts, and you feel encouraged to keep letting your creativity guide you.

Thanks for sharing this, needed to hear this. It’s good to know that we as creatives are not alone. I just self published my first children’s book and while I’ve been getting great reviews, sales of the book have been less than stellar. But the only thing I know how to do is just keep going and I started my second book. ✌🏻

love this message and thank you for sharing such a vulnerable topic so publicly!

Ooh, a fellow Canadian fungi-loving artist. I'm so glad to have found you and this inspiring and thought provoking project! I hope you will continue exploring these ideas in some form. Your paintings are absolutely reasonably priced. One day, when I've clawed my way out of my own chronic illness slump, I look forward to buying from you.

Hey Brooke - you’re so great and I wish I had the funds to support your new series. Your art is so beautiful and moving and I really, really love the new direction you’re taking. I’ve been through a similar creative journey and it’s so hard to pivot, but you’re on the right path ❤ wishing you all the best from Port Moody.

Love your paintings and thos cute mushrooms, however I haven't got much money as a student rn to buy any of them haha, but I wish you all the best. Feeling like a failure happens sometimes, but be assured you're not. It's all part of life's journey, after all nobody would queue for a flat roller-coaster, right? I send you a virtual hug, and keep on painting that one day (I hope) I won't be broke anymore! 👀

I love those paintings - this coming from someone who has been making and looking at art for more than 40 years - they are fresh and original and beautifully painted.

Thank you for sharing this video, Brooke! So relatable and vulnerable - being an artist takes a lot of work, even for those as talented as you!

I have been through this so many times I can't count. I've also had paintings sell that were on my studio walls for 12 years before they sold! Ahhhh, the life of an artist! Personally, I LOVE your abstract mushroom paintings! They are gorgeous. I had the same issue in the first 10 years of my career. I went from realist portraits to abstract graphic flowers. The "public" isn't as open to abstract work, they don't understand it. Stay true to what your heart tells you to paint! I eventually found my audience for the abstracts and sold the heck out of them!

God I am sending you so much love for making and sharing this video. It's such a liberating feeling that such a great and professional artist has these thoughts sometimes. Your painting are truly unique and awesome és you will sell them. Period

I am absolutely in love with this painting series!!!❤ thank you for your openness. It feels good to rmbr these things do happen- and you just have to keep going!

As a realist artist originally its taken me years to develop an abstract style. Most people like realism or at least something they can identify with - like an abstract landscape..this is what I had the most success with while finding my abstract voice. I suggest continuing your realism work that you know supports you and on the side exploring and developing abstract. Pinterest is a good resource to see what style of abstract you yourself enjoy. I only paint paintings now that I would hang in my own home. Its possible that since you mixed realism with abstract in this body of work you're not appealing fully to either audience. Hopefully you get something out of this feedback. Your realism is very beautiful and show a skill that a lot of artists strive to achieve

What a fantastic therapy session! Thank you for sharing! It always feels like it's just me that failed and everyone else is doing great. Failure feels so miserable but when you finally win it will be 10 times more worth it. Hope you sell all your paintings regardless of the style you choose!

It's crazy to me that someone that has been painting full time for eight years feels like a failure. But I think it's really rad that you shared that feeling. I found it very relatable. I've only been doing art for the past 3 years and I'm completely self-taught. I've sold some paintings, but I have way more unsold paintings than I have sold. I also don't feel confident selling my work at a price point where I could make a living from it, and as such price most of my smaller paintings at less than $200. This has caused me to spend much more time doing illustrations than making new paintings. There have been a few paintings, but the fear of not being able to sell what I paint has been creatively crippling. You have inspired me to keep going. I'm 39. I have a full time job. My livelihood doesn't depend on me selling my work. So is it really the end of the world if my paintings don't sell? Not at all. In fact, it's just more of an opportunity to create the work that I want to see exist in the world, regardless of if it sells. I also love that an established artist like yourself still tries new things and experiments artistically. I think this series of paintings you made are great. I love how you've combined abstracts with still life so beautifully. It's a great series!

I love your new work ! Ya gotta push your comfort zone sometimes to grow as an artist ! Your technical skills are superb , to say the least !! I've followed you on Facebook for a few years now and I'm always impressed !! People expect that wonderful realism you have mastered and aren't ready for something different just yet ! BUT .... please keep expanding your vision while still pleasing your regular followers at the same time ! I personally love the direction your playing in !! With you skills and eye for color , I can imagine some wonderful neo - psychedelic form of realism ( or surrealism , ha ! ) . I'm a 66 year old artist that thinks you're an awesomely talented ( and adorable ) person ! I know making an income from your art is important ... but don't let it stifle your creative journey ! Best of luck on that journey Brooke !! Evan F. Jiles

@evanjiles3163

16 күн бұрын

Plus ... it's not a failure to have the courage to reach beyond your comfort zone !!

Thank you for sharing Brooke!! The feeling you described of "feeling like a failure" - I know it all too well. Probably every self-employed artist or small business owner (I am a self-employed calligrapher working alone in my tiny studio all day- with my destructive thougts- yes, I know what you are talking about - hehehe). These thoughts are not helpful, so don't give them too much space. You know you'll climb out of this valley of despair soon and come back stronger than ever! :) You're such a fantastic person (at least from your videos - hehe!), artist, and so incredibly talented to be doing it all yourself! You're not just a painter, but also a marketer, social media manager, website host, newsletter writer, video editor and cutter, the anchor of your own KZread channel, and the producer! I believe the saying "where energy goes, energy flows" is true. Just try to be a little more patient with yourself and do what makes your heart happy, brings you joy and what your intuition tells you! Put the fear of "not earning" asaide (I know it's easier said than done)... And if you're up for a virtual tea-talk across the seas with a fellow artist colleague, hit me up! ;) Love from Switzerland, Patrizia

It takes a massive amount of courage to make a video like this. Thank you, you made the world just a bit brighter!

I don’t think I’ve ever left a comment on a KZread video before… But I just had to say that I LOVE your series of abstracted paintings with the amazing lil mushrooms! If I had the money I would buy every single one! (Seriously, I’m begging you to announce that you’ll be dropping prints) Also, while I’m still here writing what is likely to be my first ever (and last ever) KZread comment, I just wanted to say that I find your entire body of work so incredible! You’re so talented, and your work really inspires me. I went to art school and majored in painting and drawing, and seeing people like you who have found success as a full time artist is so motivating. Thank you for sharing your journey! I don’t see failure here, I see authenticity, vulnerability, and growth. You deserve to love your own creative process / finished pieces !!!

@b.cormier

5 күн бұрын

This was so sweet to read - thank you so much! Speaking as someone who also never comments on yt videos, I reallly appreciate this haha 💛 Also, I'm about to release limited edition prints of the series and am having a preorder sale right now on my website www.brookecormier.com if you're interested! Either way, I really appreciate the support and your encouraging words - all the best to you on your own artistic journey!

My lesson from your failure (without negative connotation) is that studying to draw abstract is totally different than realism. I find your abstracts are the amazing beginning of that journey. I say and I feel that abstract is the most complicated style in art. That's why your endeavor is very very ambitious! Just the beginning, colleague - (it is not the audience, the audience will come for art)

Thanks for sharing it! I’m a huge admirer of you and your work Brooke, and I’m an artist as well! Like you, I’ve started painting realism and fell in love with it, but have been flirting with abstract in order to bring this emotional charge and wider interpretation of my work! You gotta have courage to try different approaches and at the same time enjoy the process of creating! I don’t see with bad eyes playing safe in order to sell to your current clients and at the same time exploring the new artworks.. and I guess your partner is right, the right buyer will come eventually :)

Thank you for the raw honesty, your art is absolutely beautifu! I almost cried when you described the day your partner left by wishing good lack and came back to you so bummed, I fully saw myself in that scene. It's so easy sometimes to doubt ourself, I do it all the time and it's so painful. Thanks for showing that even tho to my eyes you seem so successful and talented you go through situations like these.

I am a professional bronze sculptor. I have been sculpting full time for 26 years. In that time, I have had some wonderful success, some public installations, some of them significant. But the path was absolutely paved with failure. But in that space, as an artist, you need to define failure. Is it rejection? Is it commercial failure to sell? Is it a shelf full of bronzes that no gallery wanted to take a chance on? Is it work I have done that I don't like? Is it all of those things or none of those things? Point being, I learned early on to be comfortable with not one of those things, but ALL of those things. The starving artist can be cliché, but in the end, I think artists need to learn to be comfortable *being* uncomfortable and our perceived failure is a large part of that journey. My entire family are in creative artistic fields. My father was a very successful author, my mother is an artist/illustrator, one of my grown sons an artists, the other a professional musician. Rejection, failure have been a part of all of our journeys, but they also brought us to new places we could not have expected. Resilience through those moments--that is where real strength as an artist carries you forward, and some faith in yourself.

This right here! I appreciate this video so much! Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability! You're latest series is easily my favorite and I would love to see more (assuming you're called to make more) I felt really inspired by this series & as a result made one of my favorite paintings yet. Sending you a BIG Thank you!!

Your videos are very well crafted and reassuring, they feel like a safe space. I think that people connect with the stories behind art and that is precisely what you do with these videos, you share the backstory. It gives more value and context to your paintings. Do not underestimate the power and reach of your channel, I think that this is where you will thrive the most. 40K people are subscribed to your channel and this is huge. Now that thousands of people have seen this, I bet that you already sold some. You seem like a very genuine person and it feels good to see. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and process. You are not a failure, you are right where you are supposed to be.

Keep going. Dig deeper. In a couple years this moment will feel as another stepping stone.

Thank you for sharing this, Brooke. Keeping it real, especially online, isn’t easy but it helps when we don’t just see the perfect parts of life. Love your work and so enjoy watching your videos.

Really enjoyed the video, thanks for sharing. I think these concepts resonate for a lot of people who create art, even on the amateur side - risk and trying new things, and the fear of failure that comes with it. I like the mushroom pieces as well, nicely done.

First time I ever see you and your art and damn. Your eye for harmony in your paintings is incredible. Seeing only the colors that you chose to blend and add is already enough to see that you are an incredible artist haha Just a few thoughts I had in the beginning of that video ❤

Thanks for sharing! Good luck with paintings or lessons you learned from this! ❤

Love the honesty and your reflections in this video. I love the paintings in this series, and I’m sure you’ll find a buyer for them. I hope you continue experimenting and doing things outside of your comfort zone!

I admire you for putting this out there. Very honest and heart felt. I hope you keep in mind that it does not mean your work isn't ''good''. So many great pieces of art go through the same experience as yours. All will be well in the end. Keep painting.