Let’s have an honest conversation on art and fear.

Last year, I asked women in our community about their biggest hurdles in pursuing their art. Three clear themes emerged, and today we’re tackling the first one: fear and self-doubt.

(We’ll explore finding your authentic voice and building a consistent practice in the coming weeks.)

Here’s what decades of making art and years of mentoring artists has taught me: Fear is simply part of being human. Elizabeth Gilbert puts it perfectly – the only people without fear are “psychopaths and toddlers” (and I’m not interested in hanging out with either!)

Watch this video to find out how you can quiet your fears, and finally begin your art dream in the coming year.

Fear has its place. It keeps us from hiking too close to cliff edges or trusting sketchy situations. But here’s the thing: fear doesn’t understand creativity. It’s working from our ancient survival brain, while creativity flows from our evolved self that wants to learn and grow, fully feel alive!

I see this play out with my students – brilliant, accomplished women who still carry old messages: “You’re not good enough,” “Art isn’t practical,” “You don’t have what it takes.” These whispers might have taken root decades ago, but 2025 doesn’t have to be another year of letting them call the shots.

In her book Big Magic, Elizabeth Gilbert suggests feeling the fear rise when you create, then simply acknowledging it: “Thank you for protecting me. I know you’re here to keep me safe. However, your help is not needed here – I’m just making a painting.”

So here’s what I want you to consider: Which weighs more heavily – your fear of starting your art, or the regret of never trying? When you look back, will you wish you had played it safe, or given it your all?

This January, I’m offering three free training sessions to help you kick-start your creative journey. And for those ready to go deeper, I’m forming an intimate art mentoring group where we’ll explore everything from developing your unique style to showing your work (if that calls to you).

This isn’t about ego or achievement – it’s about living fully and saying yes to that persistent creative whisper. Because when you embrace new possibilities, you come alive in ways that touch every part of your life.

Next week, we’ll dive into finding your authentic voice as an artist. Until then, I’d love to hear: What’s one small creative act you could do today, just for the joy of it?

With warmth, Kellie

P.S. Stay tuned for details about those free January training sessions. They’re going to be good!