Karen Kinney has taken insights, observations, and learning gleaned from more than a decade working as a professional artist and compiled it into a book meant to inspire and encourage all who are on a creative path. Both for those firmly established in a career and those just starting out, she reminds us of the value of creative expression and provides important keys to aid in its development.
Addressing aspects of the creative life not frequently acknowledged, The Reluctant Artist reminds us that creativity thrives best in an outside-of-the-box environment and that value for what we do as artists must be intrinsic, first and foremost. Experiencing reluctance at points along the way merely acknowledges that challenges are par for the course when pursuing a dream of any kind. True success in the arts could be summed up by a simple refusal to give up—our part is to be faithful, to return and try again.
Whether you are an artist yourself, or have creative inklings somewhere inside that have yet to be expressed, The Reluctant Artist offers guidance and inspiration that will leave you feeling empowered and freshly motivated to release your creativity into the world!
—Casey Robards, collaborative pianist, faculty, Central Michigan University
Karen beautifully navigates the life and soul of an artist. Through self-reflection, authenticity, and a twist of spirituality, she overcomes the hardships of both life and the creative pursuit. Her wise perspective as a true artist is a reminder that you too can enjoy the creative dream and lifestyle.
—Evan Meyer, founder of Beautify Earth
In The Reluctant Artist, Karen Kinney does not simply present a how-to manual for being an artist. Instead, she weaves insightful vignettes about creativity and the creative process into a richly colored tapestry of inspiration for any aspiring artist.
—Melanie Sklarz, creativity blogger, DoseofCreativity.com
This groundbreaking book gives permission to every artist to honor the creative space of their self-expression. Bravo to Karen for providing the reasons for us all to dive in and find the deeper meaning in our lives and in the joy of self-expression!
—Mary Campagna, visual artist, life coach, author of A Guide to Healing
—Diahann Reyes-Lane, writer
We live in a time of self-definition. This is both a blessing and a curse: A blessing because more people can follow their dreams, and less so, because many know what they want, but not how to get there. Karen Kinney gives valuable direction, deep insight, and wise counsel to anyone pursuing art as a profession.
—David Sandum, painter, philanthropist, author of I’ll Run Till the Sun Goes Down
Choosing the life of an artist is never a simple decision, as it is often not the easy or stable path. Though each artist's process varies, Karen reassuringly illustrates commonalities in which most artists can see themselves, offering encouragement to stay the course with greater confidence.
—Krista Machovina, visual artist and curator