"The Gentle Pen" Takes a Poke at the "HATERS"

TO Those Who’ve Asked if I’m a “Real” Artist:

Yes, I’ve seen the comments.....yes, that's me, I painted that!

And yes, these individuals, from what I can see, are unemployed, ignorant and uneducated, misinformed wannabe artists!

Because NOW YOU 'VE FORCED ME to state facts... I am — and always have been — a traditional artist.

I’ve spent a lifetime creating: painting by hand, building stories from scratch, and pouring decades of love into every book, brushstroke, and character. I have even attended schools for the arts. Can you imagine being enrolled in dance classes at the age of 3? I have over 15 years of dance training, not to mention years in theatrical performances, leading roles, and working professionally (yes, I even supported children and households) as a professional dancer!!! Can you believe I began studying the Fine Arts at age 15? Yes, I did! I have owned a successful art business showcasing my artistic abilities I have been commissioned as a traditional artist for paintings and murals- from making homemade soaps to handmade carpets, quilts and various other creative mediums that I have been educated as well as considered a professional - as I cut a living from my works - so SHOW SOME RESPECT HERE YOU - INDIVIDUALS WHO CHOOSE TO BULLY ME!

Do you have any merit to your claims about me having no creativity? Art is subjective, but being a jerk is not, so go elsewhere. Maybe take a bath first - and for God's sake - get a life.....You do realize you are picking on an old lady who probably has more creativity in her baby toe than you will ever squeeze out of the end of a crayon in your entire life!

I’ve raised children, held grandchildren on my lap, and now share stories with little ones I may never meet — but who laugh, learn, and dream with the books I write.

Using modern tools like AI in my process does not erase the years I’ve spent growing as a creator. It doesn’t erase my imagination. It doesn’t erase the sketchbooks, the canvas stains, the long nights of editing, or the joy I feel when a child says, “Read it again!”

To those who say AI makes me less of an artist: I say this with kindness and clarity —You are wrong.

I am the one telling the stories. I am the one crafting the worlds. I make the decisions, choose every word, refine every detail, and work with heart.

Tools don’t make an artist. Heart does. Story does. Soul does. And I’ve got all three.

If you don’t like how I work, you’re free to scroll past. But if you’re here to mock, insult, or tear down, know I will keep creating anyway. For the children. For the joy. For the love of it.

And for every other creator quietly wondering if they’re “real” enough: You are. Keep going. Make your magic.

I’ll be doing the same here, with or without your permission.

Maybe Not So Gentle this time......

P.S. I have illustrated books too!

— Liv McLean