I’ve never been content simply going through the motions of life, seeking familiarity and comfort. For me, it’s essential to pause and take stock of my existence—my purpose, my relationships, and the core of what drives my passions and activities. This self-reflection feels especially urgent as I navigate the challenges and uncertainties of pursuing life as an artist, a choice that is often met with skepticism or concern by others.
It’s not surprising; the decision to dedicate oneself to art invites questions, and the concerns are valid. The unpredictability of this path, its emotional demands, and its precarious nature are significant. I, too, revisit these questions regularly: Why am I doing this? Is a life spent making art a life well-lived? Does the act of creating matter in a meaningful way—and if so, how?
The following is my answer, at least for now. It’s not one I craft to justify myself to others, but one I seek for my own clarity and resolve as I move forward into a new year. I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share your perspective.
Art is one of the most essential ways humanity understands itself. It captures emotions, ideas, and experiences that words alone cannot express. While science explains the world, art helps us feel it—giving shape to the intangible, evoking empathy, and connecting people across time and space. Even if an artist’s work isn’t seen by many, its importance lies in its creation and the potential it holds to resonate with others in unexpected ways.
Art as a Record of Humanity
Every piece of art, regardless of its audience, becomes part of the human story. Think of countless artists whose work went unnoticed during their lifetimes but later changed the world—Van Gogh, Emily Dickinson, even Bach at times. Their work, unseen by many in their era, became immortal, helping future generations understand the beauty, struggles, and depth of human existence.Art Changes Lives, Even on a Small Scale
A single piece of art can transform a life. Even if your work touches just one person, that connection can be profound. Art can comfort, inspire, or challenge someone to see the world differently. Sometimes, it’s not about the quantity of the audience but the quality of the impact.The Act of Creation is Profoundly Human
Making art is an act of defiance against a world obsessed with utility and productivity. It says that beauty, reflection, and emotional truth are as important as material progress. The act of creating—whether it’s seen or not—is a statement that life is more than mere survival; it’s about finding meaning and expressing individuality.The Ripple Effect of Hidden Art
Even unseen art has the potential to inspire other creators, influencing the ideas and processes that shape the broader cultural landscape. Your work could spark an idea in someone who stumbles upon it, indirectly shaping their voice and contributions.Art Is a Gift to the Artist and the World
If no one sees your work but you, it is still valuable. Art is a form of self-discovery and personal growth. It teaches patience, courage, and vulnerability. These qualities ripple into your interactions with others, subtly enriching the world in ways that may never be directly traced to your work.
Art is not a waste of time; it is an essential part of being human. It may not solve world hunger or build skyscrapers, but it feeds the soul, nurtures the imagination, and leaves an enduring legacy that reminds us of what it means to feel alive. Whether your work reaches millions or only a handful of people, its worth lies in its existence—because the world is better with it than without it.