This image illustrates a life-changing lesson I recently learned after many years of submitting my work for exhibition. In the past year, I began experimenting with creating camera-less images in the darkroom.  A trial and error process that eventually yielded strong geometric abstractions, in my opinion.  This image is one of my favorite pieces from my ongoing experimentation.  I chose to submit it to one of my favorite exhibitions in January, and it was rejected… or “not accepted,” to make the rejection less painful to the recipient.

Now here’s the wonderful thing ~ for the first time in my long history of submitting work, this rejection did not hurt. Not one bit!! Why?  Because I knew, in my heart of hearts, that it is a strong and powerful piece. With this rejection, I discovered I no longer needed others to agree in order to believe in what I’ve created. 

I cannot tell you how liberating this is… to have absolute faith in your work, both the good and the bad. It’s the best feeling ever. And how strangely wonderful that this understanding arose from failure. Patricia M.Bender

To learn more about Patricia M.Bender please visit her page at Patricia M.Bender.

Featured Comments :

“A beautiful, unique and very creative image. As far as acceptance and rejection, (and “judgement” of images in contests and exhibitions), I am reminded of a comforting quote from The Dude in the movie, The Big Lebowski that truly keeps things in perspective: “Well, that’s just your opinion, man!” Thanks for sharing your very stimulating work”. Chuck Davis

“Thank you all for your words of support… especially The Dude :>)) I will keep these wise words in mind the next time I struggle with artistic doubt + insecurity. They are sure to raise their ugly heads again one day.” Patricia M. Bender

“No failure at all. Your work is beautiful. Strong / powerful
Rejections / non acceptance is not necessarily as it seems. Some greats in life were rejected for a long time. Even Picasso. But when you love feel strong about your work it doesn’t matter . Ur work is an extension of you. Look forward to more work!!!”  Nina Doran