 Abundance, 10"x20," Oil and cold wax on cradle panel, ©Lynn Goldstein, private collection Isn't it difficult to sell your art after working so hard on it? This is a question that I have been asked so many times over the years, and my answer is always the same. I am happy to sell a painting because my mission in life is to uplift others, and sharing my work can do just that. However, something occurred that challenged my usual response to the question recently. I got a notification in my email inbox that one of my paintings had sold. After the initial thrill, I realized which piece it was. For the first time that I can remember, I exclaimed out loud (with no one in the room), "Oh NO!" Clearly, I didn't know that I was more attached to this particular painting than I had thought. But the universe had a better plan for that painting than for me to hold on to it. A fact that became abundantly clear the following day when I received another email. See below:  Abundance in process on my easel The email came from the buyer of the painting in question and it brought tears to my eyes. I am sharing a shortened version of her email here (in red):
I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer last fall and have been undergoing chemotherapy since then. When I was first diagnosed, I went around my house pulling pictures off the wall that no longer inspired me (it was like some sort of obsessive 'nesting' thing). And I went into the attic and brought down pieces I had acquired early on and other ones with lots of color. And that was about the time I got your first piece as I found the vibrancy and colors to be just what I needed. I wanted to be surrounded by old friends, energy, and beauty. The night before last had been a bit rough, and when I saw your painting it just lifted my spirits. It was perfect timing. Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your work and that you never know how much of an impact it can have.... I can't say how grateful I am that this painting is where it truly needs to be. Art can heal, and we are all enriched to have art in our lives. Do you have a story about how art has enhanced your life? I would love to hear from you in the comments below.
18 Comments
4/13/2021 10:21:06 am
This is such a lovely story that speaks to the power of art. What a blessing to be THAT artist❣️ 4/13/2021 04:55:09 pm
Thank you for taking the time to read the story and for writing a comment. And, thank you for all that you have done for me over the years. I am indeed fortunate. ❤️ 4/13/2021 10:24:52 am
wonderful painting...So glad it gave the woman who bought it some happiness .... 4/13/2021 04:56:01 pm
Thanks for your kind compliment on my painting and for reading my blog post about it, Diane. 4/13/2021 12:17:48 pm
Your gift arrived at a perfect time for her to unwrap the perfect inspiration she needed. What a blessing for both the giver and the receiver.
Karen Reed
4/13/2021 08:54:59 pm
Enjoying the art and your dialogue. Certainly a bright spot. 4/13/2021 10:04:38 pm
Lynn, I had a similar experience a while back. While a woman was paying for my painting she told me that she wanted to hang it on the wall across from her bed since she had breast cancer and wanted to wake up to my pink peonies every morning to start her day. I'm still so moved every time I think about how my art can help someone through tough times in their lives by bringing them sunshine and optimism. I love being an artist!
Laura Abedi
4/14/2021 01:05:43 am
How special that the buyer shared why your painting was important and how it uplifted her. A valuable gift for both of you. 4/14/2021 10:02:38 am
This story is music to my ears! In 2013 I formed an organization called Helping Hearts Through The Arts because I am passionate about the arts (especially dance) and their value in so many ways. I'm glad I took the time to read your shared story. It warms my heart. 4/14/2021 02:40:04 pm
Thank you for taking the time to read my blogpost and to comment. I have had several experiences that have confirmed the healing power of the arts. You and I share the same passion. Visual art is my number one go to, but I studied ballet for at least 20 years until my feet gave out. ❤️ 4/15/2021 06:29:59 pm
Hi Lynn,,,I just had to write and tell you how moved I am with your share. I am a breast cancer survivor from 1984,,,and I can relate to your messages,,, 4/15/2021 07:44:28 pm
Hi Lynne, Thanks so much for taking the time to read and to comment on this post. I truly appreciate it. I remember your name! When you are able to visit again safely, I hope that we see one another again! Art hugs back a ya! 4/16/2021 11:16:01 am
what a legacy, to have your art be a part of someone's healing. 4/16/2021 12:31:26 pm
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blogpost and to comment about it. I truly appreciate it and hope that you are doing well, June. Leave a Reply. |
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