Earlier this month I saw this question on the application form for PBRisingStars and although my answer at the time was a maybe, I've now had two more weeks to think about it and my answer has changed to NO.
But why? Do I need validation to keep making art? Yes and no.
There are a few reasons why I like to draw and make art in general:
I like to learn and challenge myself.
I like the satisfaction of having created something.
I like having a medium to express myself
However, for me drawing and creating is a social activity.
I'm not talking about sitting down to draw surrounded by people (that would be a nightmare for me), but about being in contact with other people who are creating. Sharing experiences, talking about our processes, insecurities, achievements, and giving and receiving support. But, if no one saw my art, many of those things would feel empty on both sides.
I mean, If I saw someone talking in some artist group about the challenges of creating or how much they enjoy doing X thing but never saw any creations, I would think that person was lying or there was some kind of scam or something going on.
And if someone was telling me things like: Oh you are doing amazing, you are a great artist, keep it up, but I know no one has seen a single thing I have created, I wouldn't take it well either.
Another reason I don't think I could make art if no one saw it is because It would be like being in a room full of people talking to each other, and I would be completely ignored, no matter how important or insignificant I had to say, no one would be there to hear me. I think that would lead to a breakdown.
So yes, I need and want people to see my art. I need the support, I need some validation, and most of all I need someone to be open to hear/see what I want to communicate.
Now tell me…
Would you still be making art if no one saw it?
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