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Encouraging the Artist, Not Just Feeding His Ego
By Marc | December 9, 2008
Let me start out by stating one thing: I can’t stand Artists.
I don’t mean all creative people. I really like painters, writers, musicians, builders, and everyone who really enjoys creating.
I just have no stomach for the creative types who take themselves way too seriously – Artist with a capital “A”. You know them. They eat, drink, breathe, and vomit art. They are always trying to make people reconsider what they think about art. They talk about the “uncultured swine” and the “unwashed masses” (or at least you know they’re thinking it even if they don’t say it). They’ve got their little jokes about Postmodernism, Dadaism, and probably a few zingers about the Baroque period, jokes people like you just wouldn’t get. They know it and they’re smug about it. They’re so far removed from reality they believe every compliment anyone ever gives them, but try to put on false modesty that still gives them an air of superiority.
Let me start over. I like artists if by artist you mean someone who creates and loves doing it. I just don’t want anything to do with the smug ones.
Now that’s over with, let’s get on with the topic: encouragement.
Throughout various stages of my life, I’ve had people tell me how talented I am and how they wish they could draw, blah blah blah. When I was younger, I bought into it and it kind of went to my head. I was an Artist (capital “A”). If I had a spot of doubt that told me I’m only really mediocre or had a lot to learn, there would always be someone to feed my ego, but never really encourage or offer criticism.
This last Friday, I was invited to a get-together for Christian artists (small “a”). This was a group of people who are talented in some form or other (music, writing, photography, etc.) who want to use what they’ve been blessed with for the glory of God. It’s not about themselves or their egos.
And because of the egos of most creators, it’s very rare to see real humility or struggle. I don’t mean to sound sadistic, but it really felt good to hear someone say that it’s really hard to come up with something, and it’s very tough to be creative on demand. (“You’re a clown; come on and make me laugh.”) It’s encouraging to know someone else also seriously doubts their talents and has no idea what they should do with their gifts. It lets me know I’m not such a fraud.
Aside from the indirect encouragement, there was the direct. Since they’re all very creative in their own right, and these guys are pretty grounded in Christ, they don’t feel they have to stroke your ego nor have theirs stroked in return. Everyone understood the frustrations everyone else had and could relate.
In effect, that night was some of the best encouragement I’ve gotten for my artistic side. It wasn’t forced and it couldn’t be construed as false modesty or false praise. It’s a “I see your frustration because it’s the same as mine” encouragement. Often times, when we’re not puffed up we can feel our strongest.
How are you encouraged in the areas you struggle in, and do you feel constant praise helps or hinders your progress?
Topics: Art, Encouragement, Life and Living | 3 Comments »
December 20th, 2008 at 8:39 am
Marc…..I ran across this last night and I wanted to respond. Yeah……capital “A” artists is a term that I would like to avoid as well. I appreciate the way that you articulated the frustrations that come with the “artist” label. I’ve loved and hated the word as well. I’m glad that you were encouraged. I was as well. And I was excited about the creativity of others. To answer the questions……I am encouraged when I see other people who have difficult struggles to overcome, but STILL show up to “work” and continue with their craft. Constant praise is a tricky thing. It makes one want to continue, but too much of it is like eating syrup for every meal. Who would really tell me if something was sub-par? I know that everything that I touch doesn’t turn to gold…far from it. I suppose sincere support and encouragement from a close friend goes farthest. So “constant” praise is more of a hinderance to me, but seeing others work through a process of creativity gives me the strength (and sometimes inspiration) to continue my own course.
I think I answered the prompt. Anyhoo….thanks for writing it. I’ll catch you later.
B
December 22nd, 2008 at 1:00 pm
You’re very welcome, Bryan, and thanks for your insight. It’s awesome being associated with you guys, at the very least for a sense of belonging.
January 10th, 2009 at 4:13 pm
Hey Marc,
I just discovered your blog, I’d love to subscribe. Such an interesting mixing of writing and comics and reflection. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to chat with you some in church tomorrow.
Jared