How to become an unhappy artist – in 10 easy steps:
1. You constantly compare yourself to other artists.
2. You talk to your family about what you're doing and expect them to acknowledge and understand you.
3. You base your entire success on one project / exhibition.
4. You stick to what you already know.
5. You underestimate your abilities.
6. You let money dictate what you're doing.
7. You bow to society's expectations.
8. You only make works that your family or friends will love.
9. You do everything your customer / gallerist / patron wants.
10. You set unattainable and overwhelming goals that you believe you should be able to achieve by tomorrow (or very soon).
If you can say, with your hand on your heart, that none of the above resonates with you - you don't have to read any further.
BUT
If, like me and almost every other artist living as deceased, you can nod recognisably to some or all of the points, then please read on.
But first of all:
You're NOT alone.
All ten points above are rooted in uncertainty – and no matter where you are in the artistic hierarchy, you will always be unsure.
Not necessarily as a human being, but in relation to your art.
Creating art is an eternal journey between euphoria and abysmal frustration.
You are constantly looking for new opportunities in your art.
You wring out your inner soul.
You push the limits of your ability – and of what is allowed inside you.
Each work is a wide range of choices – opt-ins – opt-outs...
And it's even something you put on public display on your website, on social media, at exhibitions…
It's okay if you feel insecure.
Additionally, wouldn’t it all be boring – predictably stagnated – if you always knew exactly what to do in the creation of your work?
I think so.
What I would recommend you do next is read through the 10 points again:
1. You constantly compare yourself to other artists.
2. You talk to your family about what you're doing and expect them to acknowledge and understand you.
3. You base your entire success on one project / exhibition.
4. You stick to what you already know.
5. You underestimate your abilities.
6. You let money dictate what you're doing.
7. You bow to society's expectations.
8. You only make works that your family or friends will love.
9. You do everything your customer / gallerist / patron wants.
10. You set unattainable and overwhelming goals that you believe you should be able to achieve by tomorrow (or very soon).
In the future, be aware when you are jumping straight into one or more of the points above.
If you've jumped in, climb back out.
If you see the hole, bypass it.
Trust yourself.
You do have the skills.
And remember – uncertainty helps bring your works to life.
Love,
Anne
