How to be an artist.

Strictly speaking, you don't become an artist. Whether you like it or not, you already are an artist. Many people say they cannot draw and by that reasoning they are therefore not cut out to be an artist. Art is not about being great and skilled at drawing. It is about enjoying the process of art. It brings out your creative side. It makes you happy and creating something from your own hand is one of the most amazing things in the world.

 

When Art Historian EH Gombrich wrote the infamous words, "...there is no such thing as Art. You only have the artist..." in 'The Story of Art', he was making a judgement or an observation as an art historian. In my view, his comments aren't to be taken literally. They created many bad art teachers--the kind that said you couldn't draw to save your life. Art is open to interpretation, and while you enjoy Art, I think you should strive to be the best in your artistic field. You may wish to exhibit your work. But most certainly, you will be in a position to help others.

 

It does indeed. You can call yourself an expert. You may disagree. The word 'expert' is a much-misunderstood term. But let me tell you this: if you understand how to hold a brush, how to hold a pencil, which pencil to use, when to use charcoal, then you have more than enough expertise to help others. You will find fellow artists grateful to you for your help.

 

You may even want to be an art teacher. I have met several art teachers who always maintain it is one of the best jobs in the world because they are sharing their expertise and seeing new artists' skills bear fruit. It's about witnessing how their drawing technique improved because they told you how and why you should hold the pencil in a certain way. In short, they are helping them create Art.