Painting Through Fear: Finding Confidence in Your Art

Today I would like to talk about fear while painting. As you all probably know, I have been a practicing artist and art instructor for about 30 years. The biggest problem my students seem to face is fear of the unknown. By this, I mean fear of the subject, presentation, correct coloration, and a lack of confidence in themselves. I tell them that the fact that they are taking painting lessons and listening to fellow artists while doing so means, to me, that the fear comes from other sources. For some, it is a lack of appreciation for their efforts, a lack of color knowledge, or the fear that people are not going to think their art is worth looking at.

A healthy dose of introspection will help clear up some of these issues. First, you must define in your own mind who “they” are—the people you are worried about. I have known a lot of artists who started out this way, and I can tell you that this fear of the unknown is universal. Everyone has been afraid of trying something new and different. They have managed to overcome these fears by approaching them face-on. For example, what will happen if someone does not like your work? You have to accept that not everyone will, but if you honestly persevere, you will be able to conquer this bugaboo that sometimes cripples your creativity.

Tell yourself over and over that your ideas are unique to you as a person, and there will be approval from yourself and your audience. You can do this by developing a mantra that you speak to yourself each time you pick up a pen, pencil, brush, or other tool. Speak to your inner self by saying:

“I will portray many things, and I will do them honestly without thinking negatively.”

The people who approach your work with a negative attitude are the ones who are themselves fearful of creating new thoughts and approaches to situations.

Sit down before each session of creation and quietly repeat to yourself:

“I have valid thoughts, which I will depict with honesty and with a nonprejudicial approach. I will share my love of art and know that the art will be mine alone to share with the world. I will succeed in communicating my ideas with honesty and with the knowledge I have acquired up until now.”

Do not take negative criticism to heart. Anyone who presents you with negativity is only showing their own fear of inadequacy.

Take a deep breath and be an honest artist. You know what you can do, so study, observe, practice, and communicate honestly with other artists. You will find that an honest presentation—one that comes from deep inside you and is presented sincerely—will carry across the line of acceptance.

Do not ever let anyone tell you that your thoughts or work are not adequate. The fact that you created it honestly makes it a treasure that should be shared.

Good luck, and you can call me if you ever feel overwhelmed. My number is on the website.