What a powerful (and almost triggering) question for me to answer.

I will keep to the point though.

Yes, I am artistic. In the past I have painted in oil and watercolors, drawn with all medias, taken all sorts of classes (on my own time-not interfering with my "role in life"-oops, got off track there. sorry). I have crocheted for years, used to knit. Tried to sew, but I grew out of the outfit before I finished it (lol-really!). Acted in plays for years (dramas and musicals).

I will still draw when I am alone, away from home, at the lake-somewhat at peace. With my son and husband, but away from everyone else. Out of judging eyes. The only thing I "paint" now are the walls in my house.

The reason this may be a little triggering is that, when I was young-I LOVED art!!! I would do it ALL the time. I sent in one of those art tests in the back of a comic book-"to see if I was talented". Well, they did call-and my mother got rid of them. She set me up with private art lessons at home every week for a few years. But, all this talent was to be generated for my "spare time only-and THAT was understood". I wasn't to pursue it in life. No art classes when in school-or art majoring. Had to take "business courses to be a good secretary". There was no place for art in a productive life. To this day, my heart aches when I think about it.

My great nephew is graduating from high school this year. He has been drawn to art for quite a few years. His mother and I are the only ones to encourage him to pursue it. The rest of the family looked at it as....a stupid hobby. Well, he is doing something I would have loved to do-he is going to architecture school next year. Besides having a small bit of regret, I'm so much more than just proud of him for having followed himself-and not listen to what I had to hear.

As sad as this poll makes me, I have to say I am very glad to have answered it.

Thank you