Does Your Art Suck?

Quick Answer

Whether an artist's work "sucks" is subjective and less important than their dedication and purpose. The Working Artist emphasizes that everyone brings their own experiences and aesthetics to art, meaning a negative opinion does not inherently make art "bad." As renowned artist Kiki Smith suggests, true artists are defined by their inability to stop creating, not by external validation or perceived skill level. The difference between artists who succeed and those who fail lies in their unwavering commitment to their craft and ideas.

Has anyone ever told you that your creative work sucks?

No, your creative work does not inherently 'suck' just because someone says so. If someone tells you your creative work sucks, consider it a rite of passage and avoid the urge to hide. Everyone brings their own experiences and aesthetics when looking at art, and just because someone doesn’t like something, doesn’t mean it’s 'bad.' More importantly, no one is born a brilliant artist; it takes time and dedication to develop your craft and find your voice. As artist Kiki Smith noted, true artists don't quit; they keep making art because they can't help themselves. The difference between artists who succeed and fail is purpose and dedication. Never quit. Would you like to SHOW + SELL MORE ART? I’ve helped thousands of artists and I can help you too. Join now. It’s free. No spam. Unsubscribe when you want. Working in the international world of contemporary art, Crista Cloutier has spent her career selling art and marketing art to art galleries, museums and private collections. Using her professional experiences, Crista has created The Working Artist Masterclass, where she’s developed a global reputation as an artist’s coach. Crista can teach you how to be an artist; including how to sell your art, how to sell art online, how to sell photographs, how to price your art, how to succeed at art fairs, and even how to find your art style. Crista has worked with established, blue-chip artists to raise their profile and attract greater opportunities. And she’s also helped thousands of emerging artists to build a professional art practice. To learn more, visit https://learning.theworkingartist.com/

Frequently Asked Questions

1 How should artists respond when told their creative work 'sucks'?

The article advises against hiding and instead to consider it a "rite of passage." It highlights that critics' opinions are subjective, stemming from their own experiences, and don't necessarily mean the art is "bad." The crucial point is not to let it stop you from creating.

2 What distinguishes a successful artist from one who fails?

The article states that the key difference is "Purpose and dedication." A true artist, as exemplified by Kiki Smith, continues to make art because they are compelled to, not because of external validation or perceived skill level.

3 How does an artist develop their craft and find their voice?

Developing one's craft and finding a voice requires "time and dedication to a consistent practice." The article emphasizes that artistic brilliance isn't innate but cultivated through ongoing effort and commitment.

4 Should an artist ever quit if they feel they aren't 'good enough'?

The article strongly suggests that a true artist would "never quit," even if they feel they aren't good enough. It posits that an artist is driven by an internal compulsion to create, regardless of external judgment or perceived skill.