Introduction: The Inner Struggle
Do you want to call yourself an artist but can't quite bring yourself to do it? This internal battle is a familiar one for many aspiring artists. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the reasons behind this hesitation and explore the journey of embracing your artistic identity. Join us as we dissect personal stories and provide insights into overcoming the challenges that come with declaring yourself an artist.
Navigating Personal Journeys
The journey to confidently declaring yourself as an artist often begins with personal experiences and transformations. Ruth shares her story of how leaving the corporate world allowed her to finally give herself permission to call herself an artist, whilst I discuss the challenges I've faced in conversations about my own art and health. How do you balance people's expectations with your true passions? What do you say?
The Power of Declaration
Declaring yourself an artist is both a personal and professional milestone. It influences how others perceive you and can open up new opportunities in the art world. However, it also invites assumptions and questions about your artistic path, which can be daunting. One idea is to prepare a response to articulate your artistic identity, helping ease potential conversations about your art.
Overcoming Negative Associations
Being an artist can come with societal stereotypes—such as the notion of a struggling, financially unstable lifestyle or an eccentric persona. These negative connotations can deter individuals from fully embracing their artistic selves. A key takeaway from our discussion is recognizing and addressing these associations, turning perceived negatives into affirming statements of your chosen path.
Strategies for Embracing Your Identity
To assist others struggling with claiming the artist title, Ruth outlines exercises such as journaling to unearth underlying fears and challenges. By turning negative beliefs into positive affirmations, artists can gradually build confidence. Understanding your motivations and interests can also clarify your artistic journey and help communicate it to others with assurance.
The Importance of Artistic Community
Building a community with like-minded creatives provides invaluable support and inspiration. We both can't state enough the benefits of engaging with fellow artists, sharing experiences, and gaining fresh insights. Whether through local art classes or open studio visits, connecting with other artists can help strengthen your resolve and enrich your artistic practice.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Ongoing Process
Recognizing yourself as an artist is not a one-time endeavour but an evolving process. Even after accepting the title, new challenges arise at different levels of engagement, such as introducing oneself to gallery owners. Acknowledging these nuances allows artists to continually reflect and overcome new barriers with time and practice. Building a supportive community and embracing your unique path can transform the journey of calling oneself an artist from a daunting challenge into an empowering evolution. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, the road to embracing your artistic identity is one worth taking.
Conclusion: Finding Your Place
The path to calling yourself an artist is filled with introspection and growth. Understanding why it's important, overcoming fears, and confidently engaging with the art community are crucial steps in this remarkable journey. Remember, the art world is filled with individuals who share similar experiences and are often ready to support you on your path. As we wrap up this discussion, we encourage you to take that pivotal step and embrace the title of an artist with pride and confidence.
Let us know how you get on and what you think? We always love to hear from you.
Did you know that Ruth and I have our own Art Hub Community? Where artists who want to discover their own unique art can grow together in a supportive environment. If you're keen to join a nurturing art community, consider becoming a part of our Art Hub. We're currently welcoming our first 100 founders, offering you a chance to grow your creative confidence with us at a discounted rate.
Find out more or join us on our incredible journey and meet us live twice a month together with a building course library and past event replays, we also have a chat forum to share work and ask the community questions in a private and nurturing art space!
Thank you for watching / reading and let's continue to inspire each other to be creatively curious and confident to voice our unique selves. Any questions you can contact me HERE to find out more.