“It’s the first step that counts, not the last step.” — J. Krishnamurti, Philosopher
What do these words mean? Are not our first attempts the ones most commonly flawed? Absolutely! Is it not the last step the most defining in terms of impression? Perhaps. But truthfully speaking, every step is a first step because when doing art, every action we take is novel; we must approach each piece of work, each time we show up to work, with the fullest enthusiasm and sense of mystery. That’s why there’s no such thing as real repetition or boredom. No subject can be drawn, painted or animated in the same way. We must never forget that creation is a live event.
Don’t Rush.
“Anything of a serious nature isn’t “instant” — you can’t “do” the Sistine Chapel in one hour. ” — Leonard Bernstein, Composer
Perhaps in times like these our default mode is to hurry. It’s certainly crazy times. But we need not act crazy just to fit in. Art can hardly be rushed and certainly not in the learning of it. And all art is learning. All art is seeing. We can’t learn if we can’t see. And of course, the more we hurry, the blinder we are and the more mistakes we make. How are we better off by doing so?
Never work on what you hate.
“A painter paints to unload himself of feelings and visions.” — Pablo Picasso, Artist
Draw, paint, sculpt or animate what you want and what you must. We don’t choose our subjects based on whether they might sell or be approved. Don’t paint portraits if you hate faces and don’t animate a musical scene if you hate musicals. We put in things we like; how horrible it would be to force one’s art against its grain or against the artist himself! Only when work is done with love can we possibly pursue the task of making anything good — whatever it is — with a result that isn’t banal. Our work always reflects our feelings towards it.
Reflect on the work.
“A work of art is a trace of a magnificent struggle.” — Robert Henri, Artist
Whether it’s our artwork or the artwork of others, spend sometime with it. Look carefully, listen closely. In it, we’ll see the records of thought and the emotional challenges that belonged to the creator. We can learn a lot from such activity. Mistakes show both the level of knowledge and the attempts — both successful and unsuccessful — in solving problems. This is the history of art. This is part of our education.
Keep an open mind.
The richer and broader they (inputs) are, the more the brain has to play with. — David Eagleman, Neuroscientist
Don’t always be so quick to judge. Our minds close easily and often. And if it lacks clarity, our ability to address problems becomes greatly hindered. This is especially important when studying the works of other artists. Look for what works, not just what might appear to be errors or mere decoration. Learn to distinguish between flawed execution and stylized choice because art is a record of decision-making. This is how we expand our intelligence.
It’s okay.
“You have to make mistakes to find out who you aren’t.” — Anne Lamot, Writer
At the end of the day, our mistakes are what teaches us… about us. We become more humble. Then we see better, and hopefully, act better. Sometimes what appears to be the wrong train can take you to the right station.
