This webinar on finding your artistic voice is part of a series featuring leaders in the art community who are on the faculty of the 5th Annual Realism Live online art conference, November 13-15, 2024 (with an Essential Techniques Day on November 12). Learn more and save your seat at RealismLive.com now.
Finding Your Authentic Artistic Voice: Insights from Professional Artists
Art is a deeply personal journey, and for many artists, finding their authentic voice can be a challenging yet rewarding process. In a recent discussion, two accomplished artists, Kami Mendlik and Carol Peebles, shared their insights on navigating the art world, developing a unique style, and growing their careers.
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Below is also a detailed look at their conversation, filled with valuable advice and perspectives for aspiring and established artists alike.
The Journey to Authenticity
Both Kami and Carol emphasized the importance of authenticity in art. Kami described authenticity as a journey that evolves over time. She stated, “Authenticity for me definitely comes from curiosity.” She believes that when artists let their egos take over, their authenticity can be compromised. The key to finding one’s style is to embrace curiosity and allow it to guide the creative process.
Carol echoed this sentiment, noting that her own journey to finding her creative voice involved letting go of the pressure to please others. “When I started having fun, things changed for me,” she explained. She emphasized that the desire to be unique often leads to unnecessary stress, and instead, artists should focus on enjoying their work.
Embracing the Learning Process
Both artists acknowledged that learning from others is crucial in developing an authentic voice. Kami shared her experience of studying under various artists and how it helped her grasp the fundamentals of painting. She highlighted that while emulating other artists can be part of the learning process, it’s essential to eventually break free from that and create work that is true to oneself.
“We have to know where the keys are in the piano so that we can express ourselves,” Kami said, emphasizing the importance of mastering the fundamentals before moving on to personal expression. Carol added that understanding the basics of drawing and composition is vital for any artist, especially those pursuing realism.
Overcoming Criticism and Rejection
Criticism is an inevitable part of an artist’s journey, and both Kami and Carol have faced their share of it. They encouraged artists to consider the source of criticism and to always remain true to themselves. Carol shared her experience of being told that her realism style was outdated. “I just stuck with what was important to me,” she said, demonstrating that staying true to one’s vision can ultimately lead to success.
Kami advised artists to listen to feedback but not to let it define their worth or creativity. She suggests that artists should focus on their own growth rather than the opinions of others.
The Role of Art Societies and Organizations
Engaging with art societies and organizations can be a beneficial step for artists looking to grow their careers. Both artists stressed the importance of joining these communities. Kami noted that participating in juried shows helped her gain recognition and connect with other artists. “Being around the art was super huge for me,” she shared.
Carol added that joining organizations allowed her to learn from others and gain valuable insights into her own work. “It’s fun to be a little competitive,” she said, highlighting that healthy competition can drive artistic growth.
Balancing Art and Life
For many artists, finding time to create amidst life’s responsibilities can be challenging. Kami shared her approach to maintaining a consistent painting schedule, stating, “I have a non-negotiable time to paint.” She emphasized the importance of setting boundaries and communicating with family about her creative time.
Carol also shared her experience, suggesting that artists should integrate their art practice into their daily lives. “Let the kids be in your studio when you’re working,” she advised, encouraging a more fluid approach to balancing family and art.
Marketing and Selling Your Art
When it comes to marketing their work, both Kami and Carol have different approaches. Kami relies on word-of-mouth and personal connections, while Carol has used traditional advertising methods. “You have to learn things you don’t want to do,” Carol said, emphasizing that self-promotion is essential for success in today’s competitive art market.
Both artists agreed that pricing artwork can be a complex process. Kami mentioned that she prices her work based on size and a consistent formula, while Carol takes a more emotional approach, pricing her pieces based on how much she wants to keep them.
Conclusion: Embracing Your Unique Path
Ultimately, Kami and Carol’s discussion highlights that finding your authentic voice in art is a personal journey filled with exploration, learning, and growth. Artists are encouraged to embrace their individuality, remain open to feedback, and engage with their communities. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your style, remember that your unique perspective is what makes your art valuable.
As Kami wisely stated, “If you have a desire to do this thing, there’s a reason for it, and you can do it.” So, keep pushing forward, stay curious, and let your authentic voice shine through in your art.
This webinar is part of a series featuring a leader in the art community who is on the faculty of the 5th Annual Realism Live online art conference, November 13-15, 2024 (with an Essential Techniques Day on November 12). Learn more and save your seat at RealismLive.com now.
Discover more art business advice with these free articles at RealismToday.com.