Reclaiming Your Artistic Integrity: Lessons from Epictetus and the Creative Journey
Epictetus by LICENTIA POETICA
I recently came across a quote by the ancient philosopher Epictetus that resonated deeply with me: “If you are ever tempted to look for outside approval, realize that you have compromised your integrity. If you need a witness, be your own.” This idea of losing one's wholeness in the pursuit of approval struck a chord with me, especially in the context of art. As artists, we are our own best witnesses to our creative visions. Yet, it’s easy to get caught up in seeking validation from others, losing touch with our integrity and wholeness in the process.
The Pitfall of External Validation
I've experienced firsthand how easy it is to fall into the trap of chasing external validation. When my Calla Lily series first gained popularity, I was thrilled. The positive feedback and art sales were incredibly validating. However, over time, I found myself creating more of the same, not out of passion, but because it was what people wanted. It became a cycle, and eventually, I got bored. The thrill of success quickly turned into a monotonous routine, highlighting the dangers of losing sight of one's creative vision in the quest for approval. It's a trap that's easy to fall into, especially when you receive recognition for your work.
The Energy Behind Creation
I’ve noticed that at times when I am driven by external validation, the energy fueling my creativity shifts. It becomes less about expressing my unique vision and more about chasing trends or trying to replicate past successes. This shift has lead to frustration and a sense of stagnation, and in my case, when I’m in that mental space, I am no longer creating from a place of authenticity. Instead, there's a constant push and pull between adrenaline from success and desperation from perceived failure.
Reconnecting with My Authentic Voice
To break free from this cycle, I had to reconnect with my authentic artistic voice. This meant taking a step back, tuning out external noise, and focusing on what truly inspired me. I began to explore diverse influences and experimented without the pressure of perfection. I reminded myself of why I started creating art in the first place: to express my unique perspective and connect with others on a deeper level, to explore, play and follow my own impulses. My creative vision is not at the service of trend insight websites like erank and everbee or Etsy. I totally identify with Nick Cave’s amazing letter when he rejected his nomination for an MTV reward. In that letter which i will place below, he says essentially that it is disrespectful of artistry to subject it to the horserace of success. I couldn’t agree more. This process of rediscovering my authentic voice revitalized my passion for art.
Let’s Pause to Witness the Awesomeness of Nick Cave’s letter
Craft Over Approval
The key to sustaining this passion for me is to focus on perfecting my craft. Setting aside the need for external validation is the only way I can immerse myself in the joy of creation. Every day presents an opportunity to improve and explore, pushing the boundaries of my abilities and deepening my understanding of my art. This dedication to my craft is something I can control, unlike external factors like trends or market demands.
Conclusion
In the end, the true beauty of art lies in its ability to convey a unique human experience. As artists, we have the privilege and responsibility to be the conduits for visions waiting to be brought to life. By trusting in our own judgment and embracing our role as the primary witnesses to our art, we can create works that are not only technically excellent but also deeply authentic. It's this authenticity that resonates on a profound level, drawing others into our world and allowing them to experience the beauty of our unique perspective. So, the next time I find myself looking outward for validation, I’ll remember Epictetus' wisdom. Be your own witness. Trust in your vision, and let your art be a testament to the power of integrity and authenticity. My journey, with all its ups and downs, is what makes my art meaningful.
