Today, I want to have an open conversation about the often-overlooked struggles that come with pursuing a career in art. I’ve been in this game for a while now, so I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. I want to shed light on these struggles, how I’ve tackled them (sometimes successfully, sometimes not), and the valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way.
The Temptation to Take the Easy Way
One of the first struggles many artists encounter is the temptation to take the easy route. It’s especially prevalent when you’re just starting, and you’re eager to make a living from your art. I remember my early days when I created hand-drawn signs on wooden crates because I knew they would sell. At first, it seemed exciting, but I quickly realized I wasn’t enjoying it, and I didn’t want to be known as “the artist sign guy.”
This is a trap that artists can fall into: creating what sells, even if they don’t enjoy it. It’s essential to ask yourself if this is what you want to become known for. Taking the easy route can lead to a creative rut and feeling trapped in a world you’ve created for yourself.
The Burnout Battle
Burnout isn’t exclusive to the corporate world; it can affect artists too. In the pursuit of your art career, you might find yourself overloading your plate with projects, giving yourself impossible goals, and working relentlessly. Burnout happens when you put in all this effort and don’t see the results you expected, which is common when starting.
It’s crucial to give yourself the space to relax and think long-term. I started my career with a five-year plan, working hard in the beginning, but I soon realized I needed balance. Self-care is vital for sustaining your passion for art over the long haul.
Life Interferes
Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it. Family issues, health problems, and other personal matters can disrupt your creative flow. I’ve faced such situations, like dealing with aging parents and health concerns. In these moments, it’s essential to allow yourself a pause and reevaluate your priorities.
Don’t push yourself relentlessly; life is part of your journey, and it’s okay to take breaks when needed. Your art career isn’t going anywhere; it’s a long-term endeavor.
The Art of Being Ignored
In today’s social media-driven world, artists often seek validation and recognition online. However, I want to emphasize that you should post your work because you genuinely love it, not solely for validation or money. Prepare yourself for the possibility of being ignored, especially in the beginning.
I was ignored on social media for five years before gaining a consistent following. The key is to find internal motivation and remain consistent. The more you put yourself out there, the more chances others will find you. Remember that external validation can be fickle, but your passion should be your driving force.
Dealing with Rejection and Criticism
Rejection is a tough pill to swallow, but it’s part of an artist’s journey. Galleries may reject your work not because it’s bad but because it doesn’t fit their clientele’s taste. Remember, rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth as an artist.
Criticism is another challenge. You must develop an open mind and understand that not everyone will appreciate your work. Use rejection and criticism as opportunities for growth and improvement. Face them head-on and keep pushing forward.
In conclusion, the road to a successful art career is filled with struggles, but persistence is the key to overcoming them. Whether it’s resisting the easy route, battling burnout, managing life’s interruptions, dealing with being ignored, or facing rejection and criticism, every obstacle can be an opportunity for growth.
Your art career is a journey, and embracing these struggles will make you a stronger and more resilient artist.
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