Why I could really take off as an artist, as a single mum of three “kids”
Hey guys! Here’s the story of a single mum whose family planning timing wasn’t exactly well thought out, but who found out that her only path to success lay in creative chaos – as an artist! I’ve had a small child at home since I was 18. By now that small child is 25, my youngest is 7, and in between there’s a 16-year-old teenager! Grab a coffee while I tell you why my life as a painter and creative is a real adventure.
Self-determination:
You know, as an artist I can arrange my time exactly how I like. No annoying boss telling me when to start and stop. I work at my own pace, which matters a lot when you have kids who bring new surprises every single day. That freedom is worth its weight in gold!
Self-determination doesn’t just mean I can shape my working hours flexibly. It also means I’m my own boss. I decide which projects I take on, which clients I accept, and how I bring my artistic vision to life. That independence has helped me tap into my full creativity and find my own way.
As an artist, I’ve also been able to shape my working environment to fit my lifestyle. My studio isn’t just a workplace, it’s also a place of inspiration and calm. It’s a space where I can fully focus on my art without being distracted by outside pressures. That freedom has helped me find a balance between my role as a mother and my passion for art.
Scheduling:
Children, doctor’s appointments, homework, household chores – madness! But as an artist, I’ve learnt to be flexible. Sometimes I paint in the middle of the night or early in the morning when the birds are still asleep. The main thing is to get my creative vibes in, no matter when.
Scheduling is one of the biggest challenges for any single mum. There are always unforeseen events that can disrupt the carefully planned daily routine. But instead of getting angry about it, I have learnt to accept these challenges as part of life and deal with them creatively.
One advantage of working flexible hours as an artist is that I can plan my creative work around my children’s needs. When they are at school, I use the time to work on my projects. When they are asleep at night, I can paint in peace or develop new ideas. This flexibility has helped me to develop a productive work routine that fulfils both my professional and family commitments.
Creative expression:
You know, art is my therapy. When life goes crazy again, I can stand at my easel and let it all out. It’s like yoga for the soul, only with colours and brushes. I tell you, there’s nothing better than conquering the canvas and letting my feelings run free!
Creative expression is not only a way for me to process my feelings and thoughts, but also a form of self-discovery. Through art, I can understand myself better and share my inner world with others. It’s a way of reflecting on my experiences as a single mum and giving them a positive meaning.
Art has also helped me to maintain my identity as an individual. In the midst of the daily challenges of motherhood, I have found a space where I can be myself. This creative expression has given me the strength to get through difficult times and to recharge my batteries again and again.
Motivation:
Of course, because of the kids I can’t always do everything the way I would if I were childless. But the wish to give my kids a good life and be a role model for them motivates me enormously. I work more efficiently than ever. When I know I only have an hour, I get things done in that one hour that others might not manage in a whole day.
Motivation is the fuel that keeps me going, even in tough times. My children are my biggest motivation. Their laughter, their joy and their achievements give me the strength to give my best every day. They’re the reason I get up every morning and the reason I never give up.
Efficiency is another key to my success. As a single mum, I’ve learned to make the most of my time. I set clear goals and work with focus to reach them. That efficiency has helped me finish my art projects successfully while still having enough time for my children.
Role model for my children:
And you know what the best part is? My kids see that mum is chasing her dreams. They learn that you can achieve anything if you believe in yourself and work hard. Maybe one day they’ll become artists themselves, or find their own passion – and that would mean everything to me.
Being a role model for my children is one of my biggest joys. I want to show them that it’s possible to make your dreams come true, no matter how difficult the circumstances. By living my passion for art, I hope to give them the courage to pursue their own dreams.
I want my children to see that success isn’t just measured by how much money you earn or how many material things you own. Success means doing what you love and finding fulfilment in it. I hope my children learn from my example that they can achieve anything if they believe in themselves and work hard.
The challenges of an artist’s life:
Life as an artist is not always easy. There are times when commissions fail to materialise and financial uncertainty becomes a daily reality. In such moments, you sometimes doubt yourself and wonder whether you have chosen the right path. But it is precisely at these times that it is important to stick to your vision and keep going.
The art world can also be a very competitive and sometimes even daunting environment. There are many talented artists out there and it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. But instead of letting this deter me, I see it as an incentive to keep developing and improving my skills. Every setback is a chance to learn from my mistakes and come back stronger.
Another challenge is the balance between creativity and business acumen. As an artist, not only do I need to be artistically talented, but I also need to be able to market my work, set prices and negotiate with clients. This business aspect of art can be overwhelming at times, but it is essential to be successful.
The beautiful sides of an artist’s life:
Despite the challenges, there are many good things about being an artist. The freedom to express my own creativity and turn my visions into reality is priceless. Every finished canvas, every artwork sold is a testament to my hard work and dedication.
Another beautiful aspect is the opportunity to touch people with my art. There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone inspired or moved by one of my works. This connection between artist and viewer is one of the most powerful and fulfilling experiences I can have.
The community of artists is also a valuable source of support and inspiration. Through the exchange with other artists, I have not only learnt new techniques and ideas, but also made friends who accompany and support me on my journey.
The role of art in my life:
Art plays a central role in my life. It is not only my profession, but also my passion and my lifestyle. Through art, I have found a way to express my thoughts and feelings and earn a living at the same time.
Art has also helped me to get through difficult times. In moments of despair or doubt, art was always a safe harbour to which I could retreat. It has given me the strength to keep going and to keep finding new ways to realise my dreams.
The importance of the family:
Despite all the challenges and adversities, my family is the centrepiece of my life. My children are my greatest joy and my greatest motivation. They give me the strength to give my best every day and never give up.
As a single mum, I’ve learnt that it’s important to make time for your family and cherish moments together. No matter how stressful everyday life is, I always try to find time for my children and show them how much I love them.
The support of my family is also an essential part of my success as an artist. Without the help and understanding of my children and extended family, I would not have made it this far. Their support has given me the stability I need to focus on my art and achieve my professional goals.
Art as a way of life:
When I look back on my life, I realise that art has always been an integral part of my life. Even as a child, I loved painting and drawing, and this passion has accompanied me through all the ups and downs. The decision to become an artist was a natural progression in my life.
Art has helped me to find myself and strengthen my identity. It has shown me that it is possible to realise your dreams, no matter how difficult the circumstances. And it has given me the freedom to shape my life according to my own ideas.
The balance between art and family:
It’s not always easy to find the balance between art and family. There are times when I feel I can’t do justice to both. But I’ve learnt that it’s important not to neglect yourself and your needs. By making time for my art, I ensure that I am also happy and fulfilled as a mother and a person.
My children are an integral part of my artistic life. They inspire me every day with their curiosity, enthusiasm and carefree creativity. They often bring fresh ideas and perspectives to my work that I might not otherwise have discovered. They are my biggest critics and my biggest fans, and their support means everything to me.
A look into the future:
When I think about the future, I am full of hope and confidence. I have big plans for my artistic career and many projects that I want to realise. But no matter where my path takes me, I know that I can always count on the support of my family and that my art will remain a central part of my life.
I hope that my story can inspire others to pursue their own dreams, no matter how big the challenges are. The journey may be rocky and difficult at times, but in the end it’s the passion and dedication that makes the difference.
Final thoughts:
So guys, when life gives you lemons, don’t just make lemonade out of them – paint a rainbow on them! Because sometimes the crazy way is the best way to be happy. And hey, who needs a fixed plan when you’ve got a canvas and a few pots of paint?
Life as a single mum and artist is not always easy, but it is definitely fulfilling and exciting. I am grateful for every challenge that has made me stronger and for every support that has helped me find my way. My children are my biggest drive and inspiration, and art is my life path. Together they make a perfect blend of chaos, creativity and love.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story. I hope it inspires you to pursue your own dreams and shape your life according to your own ideas. No matter what challenges you face – believe in yourself and stay creative!
Stay creative, stay inspired and paint your own path through life.
Colourful greetings,
Your
Shirin
