The 7 Artistic Virtues.
“There’s much more to drawing than mere technical skill.
Most art schools only give you practical advice for how to “do” art. In fact they’re missing the most important part.
Because it’s not just about doing art, you also have to be an artist. To know what to create, how to make work that is meaningful to others, and why art, in return, gives you meaning. To not just live as an artist, but hopefully - thrive.
For if you gained all the art knowledge in the world, but didn’t know what to do with it, and quit - what would be the point?”
The 7 Artistic Virtues.
1. Be intentional.
Great work is planned & designed for. Learn how to repeat mastery, prescribe goals, and be purposeful.
2. What you create doesn’t define you.
Art is a thing you produce separate from you. A bad drawing or even a great drawing is not a reflection of your worth.
3. Embrace failure.
There are no mistakes, only learning opportunities. Success can be found on the far side of “failure.”
4. Enjoy the journey.
Making great art is important, but making art is more important. You’ll have a lot more fun & get a lot farther if you focus on the journey itself, not the byproduct.
5. Be focused.
Distractions are antithetical to greatness.
6. Have patience.
Everyone began somewhere. Be kind to where you're at and set your expectations only against yourself.
7. Strive.
“Challenge” is what we came here for. Be disciplined, work hard, continuously persevere, and find growth & meaning at the edge of your abilities.