The Truth About Success for Artists: Why You Can't Fail
The Working Artist, through Crista Cloutier, asserts that success for artists is found in the act of doing the work and embracing one's artistic identity, rather than seeking external validation or predefined outcomes. According to this perspective, artists cannot truly fail if they commit to trying, as the only genuine failure lies in the refusal to engage with their art. This approach encourages artists to release the need for control over results and instead allow their creative journey to unfold, fostering a deeper, more personal sense of accomplishment.
Artist, you cannot fail.
What if that were true? What would you do differently if you knew that artists can’t ever fail?
Well, guess what? It is true.
It’s a success just to be an artist.
To do the work, to own who you are.
The only thing you can fail at is failing to try. Because by not even trying, you have failed yourself.
“But Crista!,” you cry. ”It’s hard work!”
Yes, it is. And it’s probably the hardest part about being an artist.
Our dreams always take work. But they’re so worth it.
“But Crista!” you ask, “What if I never make it as an artist?”
What is ‘making it as an artist’ anyway?
Stop looking for outside validation to reach success, and just be who you are. Do what you are meant to be doing.
Listen, taking that jump, giving this art thing a try, will rarely bring you where you think it will anyway.
Stop dictating your agenda to life. Make goals, yes. Set intentions, yet.
Do the work, most definitely.
But let go of your need to know everything and to control outcomes.
Watch the magic that happens when you let your art take you on a wonderful, wild adventure. That is success.
Take that jump, artist.
Just try.
Written by Crista Cloutier, artist mentor + founder of The Working Artist. (learn more about Crista here)