Navigating the Rollercoaster of Artistic Emotions: Overcoming Resistance and Negative Thoughts

Are you a creative individual who finds yourself oscillating between periods of immense joy and profound negativity when it comes to your art? If so, you are not alone. This emotional turmoil is a common experience for many artists, and understanding and navigating these feelings can greatly enhance your creative journey.

The Normalcy of Resistance in Art

Many creatives encounter periods of resistance and negative thoughts towards their art. This phenomenon can be overwhelming, leading some to even consider quitting. However, it's essential to view these challenges as a natural part of the artistic process.

One influential work in understanding this resistance is The War of Art: Overcoming the Blocks and Fighting Your Inner Critic by Steven Pressfield. Pressfield's book delves deep into the psychological and emotional hurdles that artists face, providing actionable advice on how to overcome them. By engaging with this content and continuing to create, you can shift your perspective and find joy in the process once more.

Dealing with Comparison and Self-Doubt

Another common challenge for artists is the overwhelming feeling of comparison. It's natural to look at the work of master artists and wonder what you have to say that hasn't already been expressed a million times better. However, it's important to focus on your unique perspective and the joy you derive from the act of creation itself. As you mentioned, "I will never be as good as he was," but at the same time, you continue to paint and create, which is a remarkable achievement in and of itself.

Professors and instructors often highlight the brilliance and technical prowess of master artists. It's easy to feel inferior when faced with such examples, but remember that each artist's journey is unique. Your love for the process and your work for yourself or people you care about are valuable contributions to the art world.

Building Resilience and Embracing Emotions

Our emotional journey as artists can be likened to a roller coaster. At times, the ride is exhilarating and fun, while other times, it can be daunting and uncertain. As you've experienced, this can be especially true when you're younger. Now, after several decades, the process might have evolved into a more enjoyable and manageable journey.

Over time, you've learned to manage your emotions and understand that they are merely passing feelings. By accepting and processing these emotions, you become better equipped to move forward with your art. Embrace the ups and downs, as each experience contributes to your growth as an artist and your ability to overcome future challenges.

Improving Art Technique and Confidence

Another aspect of growing as an artist is honing your skills. With practice, you've developed better visualization and technical abilities, making it easier to articulate your thoughts and feelings through your work. This increase in confidence and skill means that you can tackle projects with less planning and more ease.

Before presenting your art to the world, it's normal to experience setbacks. These "mini melt-downs" can happen, but they don't need to define your creative journey. You've promised yourself many times that you'll quit, but you consistently find the strength to move forward. On the next day, you give your art to the world, and the fruits of your labor shine through. Your art becomes a testament to your resilience and dedication.

Conclusion

The emotional rollercoaster of the creative process is a testament to the power and depth of artistic expression. By understanding and embracing the challenges and emotions that come with creating art, you can navigate these turbulent waters and find joy and fulfillment in your work.

Keep painting, keep creating, and keep persevering. Your unique voice and perspective are invaluable contributions to the art world, and each piece you create is a step towards personal growth and artistic excellence.

Image Credit: The image provided in the question is not from the artist mentioned but showcases the versatility and creativity possible with found materials. This example can spark inspiration for others to see the potential in everyday items and transform them into meaningful expressions of art.