The Key to Achieving Artistic Authenticity
As artists, we have a very natural tendency to emulate our teachers and our artistic heroes. In fact, this type of imitation is part of our artistic development as we gain new skills and try lots of different styles. But in order to create a lasting career, we each need to forge our own path, developing a unique style that is deeply meaningful to us. That doesn’t mean that all of our paintings will look the same, but it means that we will have tapped into our unique “why” behind what art means to us and what that authenticity shines forth in our work, marking it as uniquely ours.
Focus Inward, Not Outward
It’s so easy to get lost in the social media scroll, staring at all of the inspiring work of others. But being inspired by the work of others can be a double-edged sword: while it gives you fresh ideas, some of these ideas may lead to art that is similar to that of the other artist. It didn’t originate from your own original experience (unpopular opinion: encountering an image on your cell phone is not “having an experience”). Instead, spend time looking at your current or past artwork, flipping through your sketchbooks, mixing colors and making color swatches, taking walks, and journaling. That is where your true inspiration is to be found.
I’ve found that diving into color has been a way to tap into inspiration that speaks to me directly and powerfully. My collectors and students tell me that they can tell me that they know that a post on Instagram is mine before they see the account name simply because of the color palette. I guess that means that my color palette has become a “hallmark” of my painting style.
If you want to do some exploration to discover your own personal color style, download my guide, The Ultimate Color Liberation Guide. This affordable resource will help you learn how to select colors that speak to you, work harmoniously together, and create dynamic paintings!
Put Your Blinders On
When you’re in the middle of painting, it’s normal to think about the moves you make and how they will impact the success of the final composition. I love the way that painting engrosses me in a challenge! But I’ll admit that sometimes thoughts about what viewers will think creep in. Can you relate? If you’re considering laying down a bold color, shape, or mark and all of a sudden you’re imagining the reactions people might have to it, you need to clear your head. While you certainly hope to share this artwork in the future, right now it is just for you, so do anything you want to with it. Give yourself total freedom and no judgment. You’ll have the opportunity to critique and revise it later. When we give ourselves a safe space to freely create, we give our subconscious mind a chance to express itself and thus we create authentic art.
“Here’s a quick video clip for you to enjoy. Watch as I freely paint this ocean inspired abstract,
In this piece, I’ve attempted to capture the memory and essence of diving into the ocean on a hot day. The play of light on the water, the gradient from warm sand to cool blue depths, and the feeling of being enveloped in a world so serene and yet so full of life. It’s a journey from one extreme to another, a dance of elements that only nature can choreograph so perfectly.
The strokes and colors in this painting are my tribute to that blissful escape – the way the sun glistens on the water’s surface, the soothing coolness of the ocean, and the sense of peace as you dive in, leaving behind the blistering heat. It’s an experience that rejuvenates the soul, a moment of pure connection with nature.
Talk About Your Art
Reflect on your art, and share these reflections. Write about what the work means to you, the stories behind the work, and the memories that were unleashed. Tell these stories verbally, either on social media or in person. The more you share about the stories behind you and your art, the more your audience will understand and the more authentic your art (and you as an artist) will be for them. This will also provide opportunities for people to connect with you and your art.
You Do You
Once you realize that the secret to your authenticity and voice is within you already, your task becomes clear: search for it. Enjoy this exploration! I believe that this self reflection is one of the most rewarding aspects of developing an art practice.
And don’t forget that I’m here to support your journey. Be sure to master your command of color with my powerful resource, The Ultimate Color Liberation Guide.