4 Telltale Signs That You Are an Artist

Have you ever wondered if you should refer to yourself as ‘artist’? If so, you obviously have respect for the title and understand that it’s special and doesn’t apply to just anybody.

Could you be an artist? Read on to find out.

“Art is not a handicraft, it is a transmission of feeling the artist has experienced.” — Leo Tolstoy

The Definition of ‘Artist’

Merriam-Webster’s definition of ‘artist’ is “a person who creates art.” But should the definition be that simple? Isn’t there more to being an artist than simply creating art?

‘Artist’ is an incredibly tough word to define, but there are several characteristics many artists share.

4 Signs That Indicate You Are an Artist

Deciding whether or not to refer to yourself as an artist is a personal decision. To help you make your decision, here are four clear signs that you are an artist:

Pixabay

1) You celebrate the work of other artists but are reluctant to share your own work — “The true mark of an artist is this: You love appreciating the work others create and yet you are a little nervous to show your own,” wrote a contributor to Lifehack. If you possess this characteristic, you might see it as a flaw, but it actually could be a sign that you are a legitimate artist.

2) You can be highly critical of your artwork — True artists can be very critical of their work. This tendency can be both a blessing and a curse. One on hand, it ensures their work is the best it can be. On the other, it keeps them from creating art out of fear of failure and perfectionism. If you find yourself constantly criticizing your artwork, you might just be an artist.

3) You have your own style — Every artist wishes to have a style that is entirely his or her own. This is rarely possible since every artist was inspired by other artists. Although you likely have your own style, it has been greatly influenced by others. Still, it possesses your own personal flavor. Your style may even be apparent in the way you dress and decorate your home. Having a distinct artistic style is a surefire sign that you could be an artist.

4) You keep coming back to your craft — It’s not uncommon for artists to experience months or even years of creative dry spells. The presence of these unfruitful times does not indicate that the person experiencing them is not an artist. On the contrary, a telltale sign that you are an artist artist is that you ultimately find your way back to your craft, no matter how long it’s been since you’ve felt inspired to create.

“True art is characterized by an irresistible urge in the creative artist.” — Albert Einstein

What Makes an Artist, an Artist?

If you’ve never quite known whether or not you should be called an artist, maybe today is the day to decide. Many things make an artist, an artist. If the signs mentioned earlier apply to you, there’s a good chance you are indeed an artist.

When did you start referring to yourself as ‘artist’? What prompted you to give yourself this designation? Share with us in the section below.