Earlier this year, a post on Facebook by the Arts Council of Ladysmith and District caught my eye. They were looking for submissions for the Ladysmith 9th Biennial Fine Arts Show. It was open to artists living on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. One of the categories open for submission was photography.

I had never entered an art show in my life. It’s a scary thing asking people to judge your art.

However, I made a commitment to myself to make choices this year. Not just let life happen without intention as so often happens as you pass from one day in to another. 2020 was about survival, and while the pandemic is still a grim reality, I wanted to make choices that would push my boundaries, inspire creativity and bring me joy.

So I decided to do the thing. I submitted my photograph “Juvenile Bald Eagle”. I was thrilled and awed to be accepted. I didn’t win any prize but I did overcome some of my own fears. What I realized was that the only person telling me “No” had been me. I hadn’t even given others the ability to say “Yes”. Even if they said “No”, I’d already made my choice to say yes to the possibilities which is worth more than any no.

So if there’s something that you’ve always thought about doing, my advice is to go for it. Do the thing. There’s so much to be gained.

Since we are in the middle of a pandemic, this year’s show is virtual. Which means you can check out all the amazing talent that call Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands home. Ladysmith 9th Biennial Fine Art Show.