NO ONE ASKED YOU TO BE AN ARTIST

SEPTEMBER 2024 BLOG

NO ONE ASKED YOU TO BE AN ARTIST

For many of us who wander the creative paths of art, performance, writing, and crafting, our entire existence often hinges on external validation. Why do we find ourselves so profoundly concerned with the approval of others when no one has ever formally asked us to be artists?

It's a peculiar and self-imposed quirk of the artistic life: we wait for permission, seek approval, and measure our worth by the applause and accolades from others. But here's a radical thought—no one asked you to be an artist. You embarked on this path for yourself, driven by an internal need to create, express, and contribute to the world uniquely. And therein lies the freedom: the only audience you genuinely need is yourself.

Embrace the Liberation of Self-Validation

Imagine that you are the sole arbiter of your creative worth. This isn't to say that feedback isn't valuable—indeed, it is. But what if the ultimate measure of your success and satisfaction was simply the act of creating itself? Picture yourself in your studio, on your stage, at your writing desk, or in your craft space without a hint of worry about who will see or judge your work.

In this space, there are no expectations, critiques, or standards other than your own. This mindset doesn't diminish the quality of your work; rather, it enhances the authenticity of your expression. You are free to explore, fail, succeed, change, and grow, all on your own terms.

Celebrate the Unseen Triumphs

Art is often lauded for its public impact, but countless triumphs remain unseen. The quiet satisfaction of a well-turned phrase, the delicate balance of a color palette, and the rush of inspiration that drives you through a challenging project are victories that are yours alone. They don't require an audience to validate their significance.

Think about those moments of personal triumph and contentment. Cherish them. They are not mere stepping stones to greater recognition; they are the essence of why you create. Recognize these internal victories as the actual markers of your artistic path.

Redefine Success on Your Own Terms

Success in art is often painted with broad strokes of fame and financial reward, but these are not the only metrics. Your personal satisfaction, creator growth, and craft joy are the proper measures of success. Reframe your understanding of what it means to be accomplished in your field. Success is not just about reaching the pinnacle; it's about enjoying every step of the climb.

Consider the craftsman who toils in solitude, the writer who pens stories for their own pleasure, the artist who creates for the joy of the process. Their success isn't dictated by external validation but by their dedication and passion. Embrace this broader definition of success and allow it to guide your path.

The Art of Artistry

Being an artist means being attuned to your own desires and passions. It requires you to honor your creativity irrespective of the external noise. When you embrace the idea that no one asked you to be an artist, you reclaim the freedom to create for yourself and explore your craft without the constraints of approval.

So, dear creators, let us cast aside the myth that our worth is tied to the validation of others. Instead, let us revel in the pure joy of creation, celebrate the private victories, and redefine success on our own terms. After all, no one asked you to be an artist—but how wonderful it is that you chose to be one anyway.

What’s Worked For Me 

Cultivate Self-Awareness: Regularly reflect on why you create. Reconnect with your intrinsic motivations and passions, remembering why and what drives you to start. Keeping a journal or engaging in mindfulness practices can help maintain this self-awareness.

Set Personal Goals: Define what success looks like for you personally. Set goals that are meaningful to you rather than those tied to external approval. These can include mastering a new technique, completing a challenging project, or simply dedicating a set amount of time to your craft.

Create a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with a community that encourages and understands your artistic vision rather than one that focuses on external accolades. Engage with fellow artists who share your values and approach, and seek feedback from them if it helps, but remain focused on your personal growth.

Limit Exposure to Comparisons: Reduce time spent on social media and other platforms emphasizing comparison and validation. Instead, focus on platforms and communities that nurture creative expression without the pressure of competing for attention.

Practice Gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the moments of personal fulfillment and joy in your artistic process. Recognizing these moments can help shift your focus from external validation to internal satisfaction.

Personal triumphs that do not require external validation include:

Overcoming Creative Blocks: Successfully navigating through a period of creative drought or overcoming a challenging project can be a significant personal achievement, even if it goes unnoticed by others.

Personal Growth: Developing new skills, refining techniques, or achieving higher craftsmanship. This might include mastering a difficult medium or learning a new style.

Completion of a Project: Finishing a piece of work or a series of works you are proud of, regardless of whether they are shared with the public or received accolades.

Emotional Expression: Creating something that deeply resonates with your emotions or experiences, providing a sense of catharsis or personal understanding.

Consistency and Dedication: Maintaining a regular practice or sticking to a routine, even when challenging. Committing to your art, regardless of external recognition, is a victory.

Redefining Success Without Solely Relying on Fame and Financial Rewards

Personal Fulfillment: Measure success by how satisfied and fulfilled you feel in your work. Enjoying the creative process and finding joy in creation can be as valuable as external recognition.

Impact on Others: Success can be redefined by your work's positive impact on those around you, even in small, personal ways. This could include inspiring others, fostering community connections, or sparking meaningful conversations.

Creative Freedom: Valuing the ability to explore new ideas and take risks without the constraints of commercial pressures or the need for public approval. Freedom in experimentation and expression can be a significant marker of success.

Growth and Learning: Focus on your artistic development path. Achieving milestones in skill-building, mastering new techniques, or expanding your creative horizons can be a key indicator of success.

Sustainability and Well-Being: Prioritizing your well-being and maintaining a sustainable creative practice. Balancing your artistic endeavors with personal health and happiness can be a meaningful measure of success.

By shifting the focus from external validation to internal satisfaction, personal growth, and the impact of your work, you create a more holistic and fulfilling definition of success in your artistic path.

These blog posts are free of charge. However, they do take time, energy, and a lifetime of artistic experience to put together. If you’d like to buy me a cup of tea as a bit of thanks, I’d appreciate your generosity. 

Buy Pattie a Cup of Tea.

Your Art Pal,

Pattie