Life Devoted to Art

Life isn't long enough for love and art.

W. Somerset Maugham (1874 - 1965), The Moon and Sixpence

I have been thinking about where I want to go as an artist. Do I want to develop a personal style, and find a way to make a living through my art and become famous? Honestly, I don't know if I do. When I found this quote, I was amazed at how accurately it spoke to how I feel. If, on my death-bed, I look back on a life as a great artist achieved at the expense of love and relationship, I will not be satisfied. I want to succeed as an artist, but time spent on any activity is time lost on another. I want to be proud of my life's work, even if it is not a work of art.