My
life has completely changed since opening myself up to Art. I had
always known that it was my passion but, I was constantly going
through challenging times that I never made it part of my routine. It happens to all of us where at some point we're on auto pilot - going where life takes us, rather than being the one to lead.
I used to be very harsh on myself and very insecure. Art really helped me see a different side of myself. One that helped me appreciate my flaws with ease, and even improved my confidence. Art has really changed who I am as a person, so I wanted to share with you all what I've learned these past few years so far as a self-taught artist.
YOU'RE NOT TAKEN SERIOUSLY
In school I remember kids seeing my agenda planner, all decked out with designs, and they would ask me to design theirs for them; and I would. Today, if I tell anyone I am an Artist, people have often laughed at me and managed to slip in the, "starving artist," insult. In the beginning, it bothered me a lot.
It's almost as if the propaganda to creating anything with your own abilities should not even be considered; not because it's not doable, because it is, but the idea of anyone creating anything when we have factories for that, doesn't seem reasonable in todays world. I'm not sure if this is the case, but this is my theory.
I learned quickly that my family wouldn't support my decisions after being awkwardly asked if I had plans to go back to school, or I was given a strange look after leaving a stable job to pursue my passion for the arts. No one takes you seriously, and me being very determined; I am determined to prove them wrong.
THE WORK NEVER ENDS
Over the past five years of learning and perfecting my skills, I realized that the work never ends. There are very few down times where I can enjoy myself, or just simply be lazy. The desire to be an artist takes up most of my time, that from the moment I wake up to the moment I sleep, I am constantly engaged in something.
I often refuse get togethers, going shopping, put off vacations, all just to continue making art so I'd have a strong portfolio for myself. Every day I hustle and make it a point to teach myself discipline so that when I look back ten years from now, I'll genuinely be proud of myself.
The work really never ends. It's not a bad thing though, it comes with the territory honestly. It helps to be an introvert too as I only immerse myself into my passions even more, which is why my skills as an artist are so well-rounded.
SOCIAL MEDIA HAS IT'S DRAWBACKS
I used to think that social media was the tool that every artist needed, and it is, but it has it's drawbacks. For starters, there is an immense amount of uploads on most major platforms that being noticed for your skill can be extremely defeating. Most platforms have a variety of trendy niches, that when it comes to art, it's hard to get the appreciation you deserve.
I've thought about deleting my Instagram before; I've heard success stories of other Artists who do very well without the help of social media, but I haven't owned up to it yet. Social media can be an asset, but I try not to rely on it too much; otherwise I'd become dependent on the numbers, which is worse!
So, I've learned to limit my time on social media. It cuts out time comparing myself to other artists, prevents me from wasting time, and helps me even advertise myself for free.
BOUNDERIES SUCK
For several years, I stuck with drawing mandalas. I felt pressured to draw them since that's what my viewers enjoyed the most, so I continued with them. Now, I struggle reaching a different audience since the foundation of my channel is mostly relying on mandalas still.
As I continued with my art, I started to become more comfortable sharing other artwork on my channel - it didn't get much traction compared to the mandala work - but I was happy to try new things. I realized I was happiest when I didn't have boundaries; when I didn't limit myself to draw or paint one thing.
Today though, I still admire those who have a signature style and often wonder if I'll find my own. The thing is though, I know me, and I get bored really fast, so maybe having a signature doesn't suit me at all.
INVEST IN YOURSELF
I spent so much time creating content for YouTube that I didn't realize how I was limiting myself by not immersing myself onto other platforms. My boyfriend talked me into having my own website, where I'd showcase my portfolio and any art that I created for YouTube. It has helped present myself in a more professional manner in case any business's reached out to me and wanted to see my credentials.
I later bought myself a table top art easel, which took so much pressure off of my neck whenever I was making art that required me to look down. I knew if I were going to make art a life long commitment, I had to create better sitting habits.
From there I then had my first art show where I bought my first printer. The show was a success and a huge milestone for me considering how shy I was about putting myself out into the public. In small steps, investing in yourself is rewarding, and helps you realize what you're capable of. So never skimp out on you!
YOU WILL DOUBT YOURSELF
As great as your art may be, there will be plenty of times where you doubt yourself. This whole week, something great seemed to happen to me every day, which left me in such a great mood. Then, just like that, BAM! I've spent these past two days so far crying to the idea that my art wasn't good enough and feeling miserable. What?
I've learned early on that if you want to be successful, you have to stay confident in yourself because your future self is relying on you. It keeps me going, but on days like these past few days where I break down and my confidence is shot, it leaves me feeling pretty lonely.
The thing is, I know deep down that the doubts are what keep us curious. If you're a determined person like me too, the idea of giving up makes you furious. So on days where I cry at my desk and leave my piggies wondering what's wrong with their mama, I suck it up eventually, pick up my baggage, and carry on.
REGULAR JOBS WILL NEVER FEEL THE SAME
I will be the first to tell you that I am the worst employee. I do my job, better than one would expect actually, but at the end of the day, I hate every second of it. Nothing compares to the feeling I get when I am creating at my desk. Nothing compares to the peace I have when I am in my own company, my piggies, or my boyfriend. Nothing.
I knew early on in my work experience that I was not meant to be an employee. I was so great at the jobs I had, that I was often asked to be a manager; which is worse. Like, why would I commit myself to a company I have no passion for?
After I moved into my first apartment, I went through four jobs; FOUR! The first was way too stressful, with little pay. The second injured both of my hands and today they're still not fully healed. The third left me in the hands of a micromanager and I ended up walking out on the job; something I had never done before. The fourth, finally, was so short staffed that it left me burnt out on top of trying to learn a new trade altogether. To an artist, a regular job kills our spirit really fast.
As hard as it is to continue working on my dream to be a full-time artist, it's rewarding. Yes, meltdowns come with it, yes, the doubt and fears are very real and will happen, but if you've gotten through much worse, you know you will come out stronger in the end. Keep perfecting your craft so you can thank yourself ten years from now, for pushing forward.
Until next time! xoxo - Sarah
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