Pobody's Nerfect : Embracing Imperfection in Your Art Practice

The Pressure of Perfection

As artists, we often feel the immense pressure to create flawless pieces that reflect our imagination and skill, especially in the age of social media. In recent years, I have found myself leaning into the idea that every time I sat down to do art, I needed to create an incredible finished piece that could be shared and admired. This belief led me to dread sitting down at my desk and buckling under the pressure of trying to be perfect. To combat this and find joy in creating again, I have made it my mission to let go of trying to make perfect art and just embrace the beauty in the imperfection.

Why Copying Can Be Beneficial

One of the most liberating experiences in art is when you let go of the fear of imitation. Don’t be afraid to copy other artists! Imitation is an essential part of learning in every craft, and artists have been copying other artists' work for centuries. While you don't want to claim these studies as your own, the act of copying a piece of art that you admire can serve as a valuable learning tool, helping you discover different styles and techniques. By replicating someone else’s work, you can explore their artistic decisions while infusing your own ideas. It allows you to experiment without the pressure of originality, leading you to develop your own unique voice. Take some time to collect a folder on your computer or a Pinterest board of some illustrations that you admire, and consider what you love about those pieces. Then, sit down with your sketchbook and play around with your materials, trying to discover how they achieved their final result. These drawings are just for you and your own personal reflection.

Finding Joy in Artistic Exploration

Art should be about joy and self-expression. Allow yourself to explore different mediums, colors, and techniques without the weight of expectations. Try doodling, watercolor, or abstract work—anything that feels fun and liberating! When you focus on play rather than perfection, you’ll find new excitement in creating. The more you experiment, the more likely you are to stumble upon inspiring breakthroughs that can shape your artistic journey.

Tips for Letting Go of Perfection

1. Set Small Goals: Instead of aiming for a perfect piece, set achievable goals for each session. This can include experimenting with a specific color palette or technique.

2. Create a Pressure-Free Space: Designate a part of your studio or workspace to create without judgment. This area should be where mistakes are welcome, and all experimentation is encouraged.

3. Seek Inspiration, Not Comparison: When you look at other artists’ works, view them as sources of inspiration rather than benchmarks to measure your worth. Every artist’s journey is unique.

4. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness exercises to ease the anxiety tied to perfectionism. Focusing on the present can help you enjoy the process of creating rather than obsessing over the final outcome.

Art is About the Journey

Art is a personal journey filled with exploration and expression. By embracing the messiness and allowing ourselves to play, we open new doors to creativity and self-discovery. Remember, perfection is an illusion; what's important is the joy and insights gained along your creative path. So pick up that brush, experiment freely, and enjoy every moment!