
Even with her busy schedule, Melissa Doty took time to answer a few questions about why she loves hosting the Squareathon challenge and she offers a few words of wisdom as well. Thank you @melissadoty.art for taking the time to share with us.
This is the 6th Squareathon Art Challenge Melissa Doty has hosted on Instagram since 2018. Squareathon began as something relaxed and laid back and to this day, it’s touted as Instagram’s most chill art challenge.
When I asked Melissa why she chose this format, she says, “I went with squares because I was already kinda known for being the “tiny squares lady.” So I wanted to capitalize on any reputation I already had, but I also feel most comfy with a square format.”

Next I asked if she had any advice for artist’s about dealing with resistance and facing a blank canvas. She offers, “If I truly don’t know what to do, I will switch to something innocuous like making paint swatches which distracts me enough that usually I get the urge or inclination to paint SOMETHING.”
She goes on to say about being stuck, “If I’ve been trying to do a particular project or piece and I’m not succeeding, I usually set it aside and switch mediums completely. Like a palate cleanser!”
For battling the inner critic, she shared a recent post and comment: I spent five hours painting today with little success. This does not make me an unsuccessful painter. It just makes me a painter.

“And then if I have a real shit day, this is what I tell myself. I mean, EVERYONE has bad days at work.” 😃
Last, I asked what lights her up most about hosting this challenge and she responds, “My favorite thing is the community and how people make new friends, inspire and encourage each other! I’ve also tried to cultivate a super chill, accepting vibe, so I love it when folks break the rules, take days off, etc., whatever it takes to soften any resistance to creating! I also love that absolute beginners join and just put it all out there. It’s a joy to watch!”
