Not Every Drawing Has to Be a Masterpiece

Inspiration or intimidation

Scrolling through social media, you’ll find the most beautiful pieces of art displayed.
It can be inspiring but also intimidating. We see beautiful, polished artwork, but what we don’t see are the years of practice, the countless “fails,” and the struggles that led to that final piece. It can make us feel like we should be able to create something just as amazing, effortlessly.

Lately, I haven’t really felt in the flow when drawing in my sketchbook. It almost feels like I’ve lost my skills. But I know this feeling is temporary. Just like I trust the process when making art, I also trust that this feeling will pass. So I keep drawing, making uninspired sketches, my heart not fully in it. Still, they capture a moment, even if they don’t feel as exciting as other drawings.

And I know that some of you might look at these sketches and think, I wish I could draw like that, and you consider it a failure? 
But let’s not compare, shall we? Your beginning is not my middle. We’re all on our own creative journeys, and the only way to grow is to keep going, even when it feels like we’re struggling.

Your art will be affected by your feelings. It’s OK.

If life gets in the way, when the world is in turmoil like now, or you’re not feeling great physically or mentally, of course, it will affect your art. Some days, drawing can be a wonderful escape. Other days, it’s just another thing that doesn’t go as planned. That’s normal.

So I am sharing some of the drawings I made last week. I’m not particularly proud of them, but I’m sharing them anyway. Because no matter how skilled you are, not every drawing has to be a masterpiece. And just like with everything else in the creative process, you need to trust that if you keep showing up, the flow will return.

Encouragement and creativity tips

When I posted one of these drawings on social media, with a comment similar to the text above, I got many responses. It gave me the confirmation that it’s so important to address the wonkiness of art making. A few of the comments contained very wise words and great tips, so I’ll share them here with you.

Wendy:

“What you say is so true for artists at any level. I post my things, as they are, whether I’m thrilled with them or not. Mainly because most FB art groups have a range of beginner through expert. I’m no expert and try to encourage everyone to post, because we all need to start someone where and no one should be embarrassed to share what they enjoy. I like a phrase I have heard in yoga classes….”start where you are”. I think it works for art on any day one creates.”
Right now I’m struggling to make anything. My brain is consumed with too much that is happening. I have temporarily stopped creating mixed media collage. My conscious mind is interfering with my intuitive style. Instead, I switched to creating a true “junk journal” out of a large brown envelope and packaging materials. It requires little thought and I can stay in the moment, Especially since I have zero expectations and, once it’s assembled, I plan to splash around on every page. “

Tracy:

“I have come to terms with the idea that not all art has to be a masterpiece. And it has made things a lot more fun.
Also, epiphany: Most times, other people will love your work more than you do. And so that's why I post, even things I don't actually love. Their feedback gives me encouragement.
If you have no "failures”, you are working within the confines of a "safe zone." And what fun is that? We fall when we are learning to walk, because it is something new.
Finally, by posting, you encourage and spark creativity in others. I have had a few friends re-engage with art, crediting me with their inspiration. I can hardly believe it, but it's true.
So, everyone, keep arting, and keep sharing.”

Nadine:

“Funny thing: only we ourselves see the difference! It feels wrong to you, but it looks as great as your usual sketches!”

Diane:

“Draw every day and you will get used to your own variability in mood and skill. Pay attention to the quality of your process and lose any attachment to outcomes. The drawing is a record of your understanding at a moment in time.”

Trust that this feeling will pass, just like creative blocks always do. The more you show up, the more momentum you build.
And soon enough, the flow will return.