Each year, for the past six years, I have submitted a painting to the American Watercolor Society (AWS), hoping to be accepted into their exhibition. It is a goal of mine, and I have to say - it’s hard putting myself out there each and every year knowing how tough it is to get in. I have yet to receive an acceptance letter, and this year I am submitting once again.

Today’s blog and video is about this journey - and similar experiences that leave you feeling vulnerable and anxious. 

• How do we continue to put ourselves “out there” as artists, knowing the risk?
• What reframing strategies and reminders can help us cope with rejection?
• What are some ways you can push yourself to the next level? 

Keep reading for some of my thoughts on these questions - and to find out whether I was accepted this year to the AWS!  

What is a Watercolor Society?

AWS is one of the most prestigious watercolor societies around the world, but there are many regional societies also. Watercolor societies are non-profit organizations that work to advance interest, education, and excellence in watercolor art. Along with annual exhibitions, they often provide learning opportunities and special events to foster community among watercolor artists. 

A typical watercolor society might:

• Provide scholarships or residencies to artists
• Have annual exhibitions 
• Facilitate workshops for watercolor artists
• Promote watercolor art in the community

The Northwest Watercolor Society based in Washington provides a nice list of watercolor societies if you are interested in exploring one near you.

My 2022 American Watercolor Society Letter

I had a hard time deciding what painting to submit this year. I took some time to look through some of the catalogs of past exhibits so that I had an idea of the kind of paintings that the judges often see, and I reviewed the paintings I’d done recently. I thought about the subjects I was confident painting, and I settled on this one. 

I had painted this scene before, and I liked the feeling of light and the reflections on the building. So I tried my hand at it again, scaling it up onto a larger piece of paper.  

I submitted it.

And I waited. 

76 days later, I finally receive the email in my inbox - the moment of truth.

Unfortunately, this year was not my year. I did not get in.

And it didn’t feel great. 

When you're pushing the boundaries of what you see as being possible for you as an artist, rejection is inevitable. It's not a fun part of being an artist. However, you do get used to it over time. You learn to cope with the disappointment and reframe your efforts. 

How to Cope with Rejection and Vulnerability

When I see other artists getting into the show every single year, I am of course excited for them, but sometimes my disappointment and envy can take center stage. 

So, how do I cope with these feelings and continue to “put myself out there?” Here are a few strategies I’ve learned over the years: 

• Let yourself feel disappointment without judgement creeping in. Rejection can feel worse if we convince ourselves that we shouldn’t be feeling defeated or discouraged. If, for example, I tell myself that I’m being silly or dramatic - or that it is selfish of me to want this achievement - I am avoiding my disappointment instead of getting familiar with it. Be curious about the part of you that is sad, do something kind for yourself, and seek the support you need at this moment. 
• Celebrate the rejections. While you may feel intense disappointment, when you’re ready, try what Elizabeth Gilbert suggests in her book, Big Magic. She has decided that, since rejection is a part of her endeavor to be a successful writer, that she will regard her rejections as progress - and even celebrate them. If you’re not ready to celebrate the rejection, per se, celebrate the fact that you put yourself out there. Gilbert views each “no” she receives as a necessary part of getting her work into the world. While it doesn’t always feel like it, these experiences are progress. 

• Seek community with other artists. No one but artists really understand what it feels like to show creative vulnerability. When we create, we often are up against messages our society feeds us about the value (or the lack thereof) of art. We confront our own self-doubt and insecurities. We may even be criticized for our efforts. Finding a community of other artists who you can talk to about these struggles can relieve some of these feelings and help push you forward.    

Ways You Can Push Yourself to the Next Level

I remember when I first started an Instagram account showcasing my art. It was scary for me. No one had seen my artwork other than my wife. 

Putting a piece of yourself into the world and opening yourself up to judgment from people that you don't even know is not an easy thing to do. But there's a lot of great things that come with allowing yourself to be open to getting your art out there.

But where do you start? Here are some ideas for you:

• Tell someone about your art. This sounds so tiny, but it can feel monumental. Sometimes, we even hide this part of ourselves from people we are really close to. Try it. You might be surprised by peoples’ reactions -  and might even garner the support you need to take the next risk.

• Start a website or social media page featuring your watercolor painting. You can keep it private and invite just loved ones in to see your art, or you could go totally public and make meaningful connections with people outside your circle. Either way, this practice in vulnerability can help you become comfortable identifying as an artist.

• Show your watercolor paintings at local art exhibits, galleries, and art sales. Some of the first sales I made were at art walks and festivals. Talking about my painting with other artists and attendees helped me to ease into this new role and gave me the confidence I needed to keep going. 
• Join Watercolor Community and submit paintings for critique. Watercolor Community offers monthly tutorials, periodic critiques of your work, and a community of like-minded people to reach out to for support and advice. This could be what launches your watercolor art to the next level. I'd love for you to join us here.
• Submit your watercolor paintings to your local watercolor society. When I submitted to the Kansas Watercolor Society in 2019, I had several paintings accepted and displayed in Wichita, KS. I brought my family to the exhibition, attended the gala, and met other artists in my area. This milestone helped me feel more legitimate, connected, and confident in my journey.

The Truth About Exhibitions

The truth is that competition in the art world is difficult, and it requires you to get comfortable with vulnerability. Successes are hard-won sometimes, but remember to enjoy the process. There will always be new goals to reach, and none of them are the reason we make art.

In the midst of reaching your potential, remember to be present in your creativity, stay curious, and remind yourself why you love watercolor.