|
Growing as an Artist
This is just a rambling set of thoughts on growing as an artist. I would love to hear others' thoughts too.
I keep learning how much more I need to learn. When I started out seriously to draw and paint after many many years away, I began with pure delight, and thought everything I did was great. Then I found this website and was able to see a little bit better how much improvement was needed. Every time I grow I see how much further there is to go.
Every time I put something up for critique, or have my work in a show, I go through this process:
First I think the work is great. Then, I compare it with others or get a critique and see how much I need to grow. Then I realize once again, only stronger than before how much WORK I need to do to get to a higher level in my art. It doesn't make me depressed or anything. I can see progress over the past year, and that has been while working a full-time job. So, if anything, it makes me more focused or determined. But also, a bit dispairing. Because I get impatient and want to get to a high level now, but I can't (kind of like a two-year-old's "want a cookie NOW").
I would love to hear others' reflections on artistic growth.
|