Embracing Creativity: An Artist's Journey to Sharing Their Work

In the world of art, the belief that one has no right to share their work until they're certain about it is not uncommon. The notion that artists must wait until they feel 100% ready before unveiling their creations can be both liberating and stifling. There's a plethora of emotions and thoughts that accompany this uncertainty, from the excitement of finally sharing your art to the crushing fear of judgment. However, it's crucial to understand that these feelings are valid and can be beneficial if harnessed correctly.

The Validity of Self-Doubt

To start, it's important to acknowledge that feeling unsure about sharing your art can be completely understandable and normal. This hesitation can stem from a variety of sources, such as fear of failure, desire for perfection, or the need for external validation. The feeling of not having the 'right' to share your art can be overwhelming, but it also presents an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.

Take for instance, the song 'Artists Only' by Talking Heads. The lyrics reflect this sentiment beautifully: 'Well, I got the title, I got the routine, I got the label, I got the art.
Loading the still, you know, I’m never sure.'
These lines encapsulate the uncertainty that many artists face when it comes to sharing their work. The struggle to feel confident enough to put their art out there is a universal experience.

Overcoming Self-Doubt

While it's crucial to recognize the legitimacy of these feelings, it's equally important to find ways to work through them. One way to overcome the fear of sharing your work is to develop a mindset of imperfection and growth. Here are a few steps you can take:

Set Small Goals: Break down the process of sharing your art into manageable steps. Start with sharing rough drafts, sketches, or unfinished projects. This can help reduce the pressure and make the process more organic. Seek Feedback: Surround yourself with a supportive community of artists, friends, or mentors. Their feedback can provide valuable insights and help you gain confidence in your work. Embrace Imperfection: Remember that the goal is to create and share, not to achieve flawless perfection. Each piece of art is a step forward, and it's okay to learn and grow through the process. Reflect on Your Journey: Keep a journal or a blog to document your creative process. Reflecting on your journey can provide a new perspective and help you see the value in your work.

The Value of Sharing Art

Another aspect to consider is the value of sharing your art, even if you don't feel perfectly ready. Every artist has a unique voice, and sharing your art can inspire others and help you discover new aspects of your own creativity. Here are a few benefits of sharing your work:

Building a Community: Sharing your art can help you connect with other like-minded individuals. This can lead to networking opportunities, collaborations, and a supportive community. Inspiration and Growth: Receiving feedback and reactions to your work can inspire you to grow and improve. It can also provide new perspectives and ideas that you may not have considered before. Demonstrating Skill: Your artwork is a testament to your skills and dedication. By sharing it, you can showcase your talent and attract potential clients or collaborators. Self-Validation: Receiving positive feedback can be validating and boost your confidence. This can help you feel more comfortable with your work and push you to create even more.

Lessons from Talking Heads

Let's return to Talking Heads' song 'Artists Only.' The lyrics 'Well, I got the title, I got the routine, I got the label, I got the art.
Loading the still, you know, I’m never sure.' convey the artist's struggle. However, the song also hints at the transformative power of sharing your work. By putting your art out there, you're taking a leap of faith and embracing the unknown.

From the song, we can derive the following lesson: 'Artists Only' teaches us that the process of sharing your work is just as important as the final product. It's a journey of growth, self-discovery, and connection with others.

Conclusion

Feeling like you don't have the right to share your art might be a common sentiment, but it doesn't define your creative journey. By understanding and accepting these feelings, you can work through them and ultimately embrace the power of sharing your art. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, the act of sharing your work can be transformative, inspiring, and incredibly rewarding.