I like that you point out some things which can rob us of the joy or therapeutic benefit of our artwork — particularly deadlines (the reason so many artists, musicians, and other creative types become disillusioned with full-time creative wrok) and stressors. I think too that, when you talk about being depressed, it’s generally the case that someone suffering from depression is going to notice a decrease in their general motivation and interests. We lose joy in things that were previously joyful. The trick for me is to try doing it anyway. Sometimes doing the project alleviates some of the depression. That’s always a bonus, when I can do it!