Your Art Will Save Your Life

Would recommend this book to any artist/creative type whether stuck in a rut or not. Lots of great information on figuring out you and your own practice.

I bought this book thinking it would inspire and help motivate me and maybe learn a bit, however... I was quickly turned off when the author quickly went into politics. I ended up skipping that whole chapter but it seemed like the author kept trying to add and keep politics related throughout the book. I read the whole thing because I try to keep an open mind and really wanted to enjoy it, I mean...after all, I did spend my hard earned money on it, but I couldn't get the bad taste out of my mouth. There must have been a few good sentences in the book that were thought provoking but overall, Id say the cute cover is the best thing about this book and there are other art books on here I'd recommend over this one.

I heard about Beth after her interview on the Everything is Fine Podcast and am so, so grateful. As artists, we become mired in the intent and purpose and worthiness of our creations. Life and responsibilities beckon, creating art seems futile, self-indulgent, irresponsible. It is a struggle I face on a near-constant basis. I love Beth Picken's podcast and I love her books. She is in my corner and understands my journey--pulling for me, giving me foundation. Reading her words are a proactive practice in self-compassion.

I read this slim little book in an hour or so, but I know I'll be returning to it again and again. It deals with a lot of the things that take up psychic space for artists, and discusses how to find your way back to your work. As a teacher and writer, I will be recommending this to many, many people.

This book is a great introduction to anyone looking to get their creative life on the right path, and for anyone doubting their creative life in the current political climate. It’s brief (I was able to read it in less than a day), but it is full of ideas on how to recondition your thoughts and practices.The author calls this her love note to artists, and it is just that. It is an encouraging read.