Fighting Artistic Limitations

Managing Limitations

Limitations are a part of our daily lives.  It’s the reality of life – right?  You can do this – you can’t do that.  We are all used to this, and as a result we tend to put limitations on ourselves.  These self-imposed limitations show themselves over and over again with students learning to become artists.

We believe that we can do this – but we can’t do that.  Often, these beliefs form who we become as people. They craft the very essence of our existence.

Unfortunately, many of these beliefs were formed as we grew – when we were impressionable. We accept them and move on. Some of us move through life ignoring our passions because we believe that we are incapable of achieving success.

Letting Go of Limitations

Those of us that believe that we have limitations to our artistic abilities were told at some point, either directly or indirectly,  that we were incapable.  (It’s very easy to to give up and blame it on a lack of “talent”.) Perhaps, it was a teacher, a parent, or a peer that planted that belief – and over time it grew.  For many, they can remember the exact moment when that belief was planted.

As children, we draw and paint without fear of judgment.  Artistic limitations do not exist and everything created is a work worthy of pride.

“Every child is an artist.  The problem is how to remain one once you grow up.”
-Picasso

But over time, children are told of perceived limitations by others and these comments mold our perceptions of ourselves.

If we can silence perceptions in our minds and approach creating art without preconceived notions, our limitations vanish.  We are free to pursue our life passions without judgment – without fear of failure.

This is how I suggest students approach creating art – without preconceived notions – without limitations.

Do not fear mistakes – they are part of the journey.  Do not suppress passions – they are the essence of life!