Finding New Connections Through Art
This week tested me.
Personally, I’m happy-ish — I have the most supportive partner, my best friend and husband, a beautiful home, and my gallery filled with artworks I’ve recreated after closing my fine art gallery in New Zealand.
But professionally? I hit a wall and found myself questioning everything.
Am I good enough? Is anyone truly interested in my work or what I have to say? Should I continue as both a gallerist and an artist? Will I ever publish my book? Would people even care enough to buy a copy?
Some might say, “Not you, Mira! You’re unstoppable!” But the truth is, I’m just human — creative, sensitive, and not immune to self-doubt. While I’ve achieved things I once thought impossible with my “I believe I can fly” attitude, this week I felt grounded. Where are my wings?!
Relocating to my fourth country has been both exhilarating and challenging. I’ve never followed the typical path of climbing the property ladder, ticking off milestones like marriage, babies, or degrees. My life has always been colourful, shaped by dreams rather than convention. But starting over — again — is hard, even in a vibrant and welcoming place like Sydney.
Building connections takes time, and as an artist, it can feel isolating. I’ve been applying for art shows and gallery opportunities, which is both exciting and nerve-wracking. The waiting feels like standing on the edge of a cliff, wondering whether the wind will lift you or leave you stranded. If you’re an artist, I’m sure you can relate!
And here’s something many people don’t realise artists often look up to gallery owners, thinking how lucky they are. I’ve heard it more than once — “You must have it all!” But oh, if only they knew what it’s really like to be a double agent, both gallerist and artist. Let’s just say it’s a story best left buried — one only experience can teach.
Then today, something changed. My phone rang.
“Hi Mira, how are you doing?” said the voice on the other end. It was Avi, the founder of Fantastic Framing, whom I’d followed since my time in New Zealand. And let me tell you, they truly live up to their name! He thanked me for my order, asked about my art, invited me to meet him, and offered to help promote me. His genuine interest reminded me that kindness and support often appear when you least expect them.
By the way, my order of seven new frames for my works arrived super quick, and I’m amazed by the quality and service!
That simple conversation reignited my hope. It reminded me of the joy I’ve always found in encouraging others — particularly artists who’ve felt lost or doubted their creativity. I used to shout from the rooftops: Don’t give up! I even ran wellness art workshops for people who longed to create but didn’t believe they could, as well as for those who felt isolated and wanted to connect but didn’t know how.
So, you cannot draw a stickman?
Funnily enough, my husband — who once said he couldn’t even draw a stickman — asked for a canvas today because he’s inspired to paint. That moment made me laugh, but it also reminded me of the transformative power of art and connection. I might have a competition at home now!
Dear Artists - Let’s Fly!
So here’s what I want to share: even when you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom, remember this — it’s the perfect place to push off and rise. There’s nowhere to go but up. So let’s fly!
If you’d like to connect, reach out. Follow me, email me, or join me for coffee. Let’s keep lifting each other through art.
Have an awesome weekend creatives!
PS Thank you Fantastic Framing for supporting artists!
Mira Corbova
Artist | Curator | Storyteller
