Art For Art’s Sake: Staying True To Your Vision

 By Contributing ColumnistBette Miles-Holleman aka BadMsM

 My oldest daughter, an aspiring artist, had two of her works entered in a local show. She didn’t win a prize, but many people praised her for fine work that looks much more advanced than that of a 15 year old. Despite the praise she received, she was upset that she didn’t win a prize. I told her that shows like this only reflect a few peoples’ opinions and tastes, and the fact that they didn’t award her a prize does not invalidate her or her work. Art, after all, is subjective.

I’m not sure if my daughter understands, but I think she has enough passion to carry her through her disappointment. I have to remind myself that this is also a part of the creative process. Every artist must learn healthy responses to criticism, constructive or otherwise.

How many of us indie artists have felt this way at one time or another? Sure, we need to evaluate our work and strive for the best, but we need to be comfortable with who we are and what our art says about us. It will grow and evolve just as we do, but we need to remember the vision that got us here in the first place. Personally, I like to read my customer feedback for a reminder of why I do this. It’s nice to hear what kindred spirits and those who ‘get it’ have said about my work. 

In this competitive world that seems to be all about accolades, prizes and titles, it can be easy to fall into the trap of looking to those things for validation. And while we are encouraged by sales of our works, we still do it for love our art, and the joy of creating unique items that speak to us in a way that nothing else can.

That’s what it’s all about!

Drawing courtesy of Chloe Holleman. 

Medals photo courtesy of drfeltgood

Tags: art show, artist, badmsm, badmsms gift-orama, competition, indiesmiles, medals, prizes, spirit, visions

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