The Solitary Life Of An Artist

 

Life as an Artist is and has been the dream for me. It has been my focus for many years and it has all consumed my life from an early age. The very idea that I would draw every single day excited me and it still does, although there are days when that excitement turns into worry, especially when you don't know if certain pieces of art will sell or you'll make enough to continue with the art that you want to.

I have always seen my Artists Journey in my head as a solitary way of life, that no one else will or should understand, my partner and my now two older Children have no idea really of the stuff I have in my head to draw and the path that I see myself constantly trying to follow and veering off that path frequently.

You wake up every morning not in the same creative energy as other days, for whatever reason, a commission that left doubt in your mind as to your artistic abilities or a trouble with certain techniques you haven't quite got the handle on or even other daily struggles, such as simply paying bills on time and having enough money to eat, all very valid worries for lots of people in this day and age now.

There's the constant thoughts of wanting to create a piece of artwork or an illustration you've wanted to draw for quite some time, months or years in fact and around all of your daily chores you are secretly wanting to get back to the drawing board and get them artworks on to paper or canvas to see if they work out.

Artists are often seen as creative geniuses who are able to express themselves in ways that others cannot. They are known for their ability to create beautiful works of art that are admired by many. However, the reality is that artists can often feel isolated and alone during their creative lives.

One reason why artists can feel isolated is that the creative process can be a solitary one. Creating art requires a lot of concentration and focus, and many artists prefer to work alone in order to fully immerse themselves in their work. This can be a double-edged sword, however, as spending long periods of time alone can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Another reason why artists can feel isolated is that their work is often misunderstood by others. While art can be a universal language, not everyone will appreciate or understand what an artist is trying to convey through their work. This can be frustrating and can lead to a sense of disconnection from the rest of the world.

In addition, artists often face rejection and criticism throughout their careers. Whether it's a rejection letter from a gallery or a negative review of their work, these experiences can be incredibly discouraging and can make an artist feel like they are on their own in their creative pursuits.

Finally, the lifestyle of an artist can also contribute to feelings of isolation. Many artists work odd hours, often late into the night, which can make it difficult to maintain relationships with family and friends. They may also have to travel frequently for shows or residencies, which can further disrupt their social lives.

In conclusion, while artists may be admired for their creative talents, the reality is that they can often feel isolated and alone during their creative lives. The solitary nature of the creative process, the potential for misunderstanding and rejection, and the demands of the artist lifestyle can all contribute to these feelings. Despite these challenges, however, many artists continue to create and to share their work with the world.