PURE NEED

Harley Brown's fascinating things no one else will tell you

With each of us, it's not that we want to be an artist, it's that we need to be an artist. Putting it this way, we don't want to breathe-we need to breathe. In the same way, "hope" is not a strategy, "getting into a studio and making art happen" is a strategy.

I look back and know it wasn't that I made the "right" choice; it was the only choice. I've been very much me, Harley Brown, all my life. At first, I was somewhat insecure because I was entering a very complex world. But with the help of wonderful family and friends, mentors and a number of fortunate happenings, I got what my heart and soul were after. Even near broke, I was giddy with joy that each and every day, I was an artist. That's what life is about.

Whose Opinion Matters?

How is it possible that many people allow tastemakers to tell them what is worthy and what is not? This has gone on for cons in different forms. I remember when I was a lad, how the critics had a way of convincing me.

Sometimes stern, they would also laugh with derision: "Really?! You like that tawdry tripe?" The pundits would often have a ready sneer as a warning for those having the gall to contradict and say they "don't get it." After years of experiencing ego art debates, they're way in my past. Most importantly, we think for ourselves.

Thank You

We don't look for a style or approach in our art. It really comes naturally as we build our skills and confidence. Much like our personalities. I was insecure in my very early days and tried to be like others who were more popular. That sure didn't work out. But it wasn't long before my confidence in my art and myself took a strong and personal turn. Thank you art world!

Who Knows What's "Perfect" in Art?