This is a picture of my painting instructor Marc Wurmbrand and one of his pieces of work. He has been so generous in sharing his admiration for and knowledge of art; in particular, painting...the process, as well as the product, with his students. Since I became one of his students last Fall, I have been mentally collecting what I call "Marcisms". These are little phrases he uses to motivate and inspire his students to be creative. A few of them are, "let your first mark be your last", "point of departure", "thinking in paint", and my very favorite, "make a mark and see where it takes you". I love that! The first time I heard him say that I thought, "He speaks my language!". However, the most freeing Marcism is "There are no originals. It has all been done before." I am continually surprised at the relief this idea brings me.
I am curious as to what this phrase does for you, if anything. You are invited to let me know!