Art is complex, and so are the artists who venture into creating their own masterpieces. That complexity empowers them to create visually compelling things, but it also makes it difficult for them to get and accept the feedback of others.
If you’re an artist yourself, you’d know first hand that getting other people’s opinion is rarely smooth going. Still, the part of you that knows it’s integral for your growth propels you to keep showing up with your artwork in front of people. The next time you’re gearing yourself up for another round of feedback on your latest masterpiece, arm yourself with these four truths to make the process simpler.
Not Everybody’s Opinion Matters
One of the biggest mistakes artists make in this area is believing that everybody’s opinion matters, particularly those closest to them. It’s normal to want your family and friends to be the most appreciative of your work, but that would be the case only in an ideal world.
This is why it’s important to get yourself involved in artist communities both in person and online. Immerse yourself in a talented comic creator that allows you to have a platform for your works that other artists can view. Don’t be afraid to invest in relationships with these people, as they may be the best ones to go to if you’re not sure about a certain technique you used or a color palette you chose. Ultimately, it’s the opinion of the people who care about you and your work whose criticism will build you up and turn you into a better artist.
Non-Artists Could be Clueless
Just because people don’t have extensive feedback on your work doesn’t mean they don’t care. Sometimes, they simply aren’t knowledgeable about what you do to say anything more than a few compliments.
Even if everybody nowadays is amateur photographers, few will appreciate the work you put into getting a certain shot right. Likewise, even those who indulge in certain types of art might not be into your specific field. Comic creation is by no means a simple art, but people who don’t know this could be clueless as to the feedback you’re looking for.
This is just how it goes, and it’s not worth bearing a grudge for people who can’t string together the kind of opinions you’re looking for. If you turn the tables, you’ll realize that you could actually be behaving the same way when they ask for feedback on their novel, woodcraft, and cooking skills.
Art Should Be Personal
Above all, the art you produce for passion should matter to you most. Even other artists and enthusiasts won’t always like the things you produce. Regardless, if you believe that you achieved what you were going for, then that’s all that matters in the end. If you’re making a career out of digital art design and illustrations, then by all means cater to your clients’ needs. Put their wants first. When it comes to your passion projects, treat them as if you’re the client. What do you want? How do you feel about your decisions?
It’s by creating this safe space in your head that your art is for your benefit that you handle all forms of feedback with grace. You’ll never know when embracing your true aesthetic could bring out the master artist in you.
Even when you make a mantra of all these truths, it will take time to truly embrace them. Once you do, however, you’re opening yourself to receive the feedback that truly matters and create art the way you always wanted to.
