Why Famous Artists Like Sam Sahil Don't Share All Their Sketches

Art is a deeply personal and multifaceted journey for many artists, but why then do some choose to withhold parts of their creative process? Especially when works like Sam Sahil's are already available on esteemed platforms like Saatchi Art. Let’s dive into the reasons behind an artist's decision to not share every single sketch they draw.

Personal Preference

Some artists have a personal preference for keeping certain works private. These sketches might serve as a form of self-exploration and modern-day sketchespad, rather than finished pieces meant for public showing. When artists share their work, it often sets a certain expectation or image. By choosing to share only their polished or complete pieces, they can maintain control over the image they present to the world.

Quality Control

Quality is a crucial factor for any artist, especially those looking to build a reputation or sell their work commercially. Not all sketches may meet an artist's standards or represent their best work. By sharing only the polished sketches, artists can showcase the level of detail and care they put into their final pieces. This also helps in maintaining a level of professionalism and credibility in their portfolio.

Creative Process

Sometimes, sketches are not just finished pieces but a part of the creative process. They might serve as a means of experimentation, allowing artists to try out different techniques or ideas. Sharing only the selected and perfected sketches could provide an incomplete or misleading narrative of their work. Including these drafts can give a more authentic glimpse into their creative mindset and process.

Audience Engagement

Engaging with an audience can be important for any artist, but sometimes they want to maintain a certain mystique or build anticipation around their work. By sharing only a few selected pieces, artists can create a sense of exclusivity and curiosity. This can also help in building a narrative around their art, making it more intriguing to potential buyers and admirers.

Copyright and Intellectual Property

Sharing sketches and artwork also comes with legal considerations. Artists might be concerned about copyright issues, especially if their work could be used without their permission. Sharing too much could potentially affect ownership or restrict their commercial opportunities.

Mental health and vulnerability can also play a role in an artist's decision to withhold certain works. Sharing art is a vulnerable act, and some artists may struggle with anxiety or self-doubt when putting their work out there for criticism. Keeping some pieces private allows them to maintain control over their creative expression and rejections.

Is Posting Art Obligatory?

It's important to note that no artist is compelled to share their work online, real or imaginary. While sharing art can be beneficial, it’s ultimately a choice. It's perfectly acceptable for an artist like Sam Sahil to prefer keeping some of their sketches private for various reasons.

However, in the specific case of Sam Sahil, if someone initially believed that he wasn't sharing his sketches, it could indicate a misunderstanding. Artists like Sam might already be sharing their work on platforms like Saatchi Art, which can be a great way for them to showcase their talent. Additionally, the lack of responses or recognition after eight months could suggest that the initial push for attention was not successful.

Ultimately, the decision to share or withhold sketches is a personal one and can vary significantly from artist to artist. It's a deeply individual decision based on personal goals, creative process, and artistic expression. Artists like Sam Sahil have the right to choose what they share, and it's important to respect that choice.