Hello friends! I'm going to be honest with you, I used to believe these 5 myths about being an artist. I really did. Except now I know that they're really not true. What changed? Well, I became an artist.
Don't get me wrong, I still have an ego and want my art to be effortless and well-liked BUT
for the first time in 4 years as a part time painter and 2 years as a part time pattern designer, THIS YEAR I've had NO SALES (like, NONE). And although 2024 isn't yet over, I was beginning to feel a bit despondent about my art practice - and this is not good for creativity, or for life in general! I knew I needed to really to give myself a pep talk and remind myself why I should continue to paint and design.
Let me give you an insight into my world as I share with you how I really feel about these myths and how I encourage myself to continue creating - maybe you can apply these thoughts into situations in your life too.
MYTH 1: You are naturally talented
I don't even know what 'natural' talent is, but if it means you can do something with little thought or effort, umm nope! What I do believe though, is that anyone is capable of nurturing an interest and, especially if it's something they're passionate about, they can GROW their talent.
My personal painting journey started with zero knowledge and ability and has required patience and perseverance.
MYTH 2: Showing your work is easy
Every single time you show your work, you are being vulnerable, and being vulnerable is never easy. Also, this doesn't just mean showing your work in public at a gallery, or online - it can mean showing your work to a friend, a loved one, a colleague. When you create something, it comes from a place inside you, and for allowing another person to have an opinion is scary.
For me, showing my work to others has become easier over time, but the reason I continue to do it despite the fear of hurtful words or rejection is the reward I get for knowing that I achieved something. I made myself vulnerable and showed up in the world, and maybe, just maybe that will inspire others to do the same.
MYTH 3: Each creation is perfect and saleable
Again with the patience and perseverance, because NOT every creation is good. And nor should it be, otherwise there would be no satisfaction in learning more and trying new things.
I make LOTS of bad, mediocre and so-so art, but each piece serves a purpose. Sometimes I'm having a bad day and just want to put colour on paper because it makes me feel lighter. Sometimes I have a feeling or an idea that I'd like to express and so reach for a pen or paintbrush because that's the best way for me to express it. Every mark I make has a reason, a purpose.
MYTH 4: You need to find your niche
I don't agree. I think you will find some things you are more interested in than others, but you won't know this until you try MULTIPLE things. Besides, even if you do find a niche, something that lights you up, why limit yourself to just that thing?
If I had a niche then maybe it would be painting flowers but that's not all I have fun doing. If I'd never had a go at sketching flowers, my painting wouldn't have improved. If I only concentrated on painting, I'd never have tried collage or digital art or creating surface pattern designs. If I only worked on flowers, I'd never have drawn rabbits, or pineapples, or hermit crabs! So, you see, I think it's okay to not have a niche.
MYTH 5: Success is measured by $ and 'likes'
I don't know why it's true that getting $ and 'likes' does feel good. But does it equal success? I don't think so.
Success for me is continuing to work on my art DESPITE the lack of sales and followers BECAUSE I ENJOY IT. That is reason enough.
Thanks for being here. I hope you resonated with my words, and it gave you a glimpse into why I do what I do.
Jo x
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