Why Erick Must Paint?

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When choosing the domain name for my online portfolio, I had to select among several options, but "Erick Must Paint" resonated with me the most. Being aware of branding, image, consistency, and professionalism, I initially hesitated to use the domain name, as it felt like it did not sound ‘professional enough’ to represent a portfolio, especially when resembling the title of Bartkowiak’s movie, Romeo Must Die, which starred Jet Li. I initially chose Erick Henares Artworks because it sounded safe and professional, which is still reflected in the Facebook equivalent of this portfolio (I cannot change it, so I will probably create another account). However, it felt distant to me. It felt like subscribing to the norm, even if it does not align with who I am.

So I eventually changed it. I justified the change as being true to myself, even if it goes against the norm, to follow what I feel is right. I already did the plunge, so why not go all in? Erick Must Paint embodies my struggle, how I push myself to paint despite the countless challenges. It represents countless moments when I have to force myself to paint or draw, despite fatigue, burnout, and a lack of time. It also embodies the sacrifices I made to pursue art, dropping other activities and people to have more time and energy to do art. Above all, it reflects this period when I became almost a hermit, focusing on art.

Of course, the anxiety is still there. I still worry, ”What if it fails to get traction?” “Turn off prospective galleries and collectors?” “Judged as unprofessional?” “What if it will fail?” etc. Thinking about it, everything here is uncertain. And if I must fail, at least it gave me the satisfaction of being true and will not blame myself for compromising and still failing. It would be better, though, if this succeeds in getting my artworks in a gallery, earning a base of collectors, and remaining true to myself.

For now, Erick Must Paint stands.