Wow I really needed to hear this. I am currently battling with anxiety and depression been unmotivated for weeks just doodling mindless drawings. I am taking small baby steps to get on my feet again :)
I really appreciate how encouraging you are. I hate how depression in the arts is mentioned as a glamorous thing you must have to be successful. In some cases (such as my own) I feel that depression, fear, [and envy] doesn't let artists grow.
I went through really bad art depression this week, and I have had an art block for the past month... it got so bad I was considering of dropping drawing altogether. However I kept going back to my sketchbook, going back to my digital drawings and keep on drawing, something didn't allow me to give up even if I was feeling that way. What you say is true, depression, fear and insecurities can hold and artist's growth, it does not allow you to see that you have improved in some way, and it does not allow you to feel proud of what you've created. Watching this video, in combination with a really great article I read has made me get back on feet and draw with love once again. I hope that anyone that is going through this right now just know that it will be over... maybe soon, maybe not, but it will pass! Sending good vibes!! (sorry for the long paragraph too ; ; ! )
thanks for reaching out and speaking about the downsides. feeling less alone here now. you are a great encouragement to the young artist that i am :D thank you
Thanks for posting. An old friend from the 'hood just landed himself a gig at a big studio after years of being at smaller places. the thought of "What the hell are you doing still working here" once again crossed the ol' frontal lobes, but your video came at the perfect time for me again, reminding all of us that overvaluing others' achievements means you're also undervaluing your own.
somone might post a picture of a holiday on facebook sharing a great moment but they will return to thier 9 to 5 job and it will be another memory. Artistic people go to worlds that the average person can only reach through another persons creativity. That being said its not to hate on people sharing a great time on social media. Its just to keep things in perspective. Being jealous doesnt make sense because other peoples situation, good or bad doesnt change your current situation in life. I wish all good people the best in life.
Hi Stephen, I am really enjoying listening to all your talks, they are great and even myself need to be reminded of some things you say. Keep posting them!
I was feeling kinda sad cause I lost a contest I put so much effort in. But you are right! We must quit comparing ourselves and start focusing in what we already have. A great message, Thank you :)
Thank you, Stephen. Not sure how you *knew* this is what I needed to hear this week (LOL). But having gone through some recent rejection of my artwork this past weekend it sent me into a depressive state. It's always helpful to pull back and remember that this is a journey, even though some of us are closer to the end of it than the beginning. Thanks again.
Thank you for these videos Mr. Silver. So inspiring to hear someone like you talk about these things, the difficulties, the "tortured" mindset I usually fall back on. I feel understood lol. Love the advice.
I really look forward to these talks. I'm trying to improve not only my art but my attitude toward work and they honestly help a lot. It gives me hope that someday my life can be where I want it to be or who knows, I could even be in a better place than I ever imagined. I'm not sure if I'm explaining myself well.
i've been tortured for around 15 years now. i am 30 now and still confused and wanting more. i had to work in call centres for over 5 years..i believe i have the potential for a more fulfilling life. i tend to also gravitate to character and creature design as well as animal art. thanks for the talk.
Thank you so much !! I am going through that, although this time is taking longer than usually, I am willing to keep striving for my dreams. every day, a little bit better :D
I am glad I saw this, because be,I’ve it or not, people have actually wanted to be me, yet, I could never understand why? Because some of the experiences they hear about me having from when I was younger & even now, I didn’t want to have & some I did want to have, but sometimes I wonder, why does this happen to me? Then I tend to think, well, God wouldn’t throw anything my way that he didn’t think that I couldn’t handle.
Loved this one. An idea for a Art Talk that I get in loads of arguments with people - "Is photography art?" Granted, it takes a tinge of skill to capture something, yet you have picture frames with family photos in them. Would one consider them art? If so, then practically everything that's colorful and in a frame automatically becomes art, and then we lose the definition completely. So I like to say that natural aesthetic isn't art, but as soon you alter the composition of the environment or manipulate the image in a editor, then it becomes art. But then again - how would you know if something's altered or not? It's quite a debacle.
I got in this Depression but I got out of it cause all the artist that you are enyoing are good to improve your style, so that you be at one day this artist that inspire other people. That means: dont be tired that your style doesnt look like the artists style that you so much love, instead learn Form this artist and make your style even better. PS: love your Videos stefen Iam a big fan PSS: sorry for my bad english^^
Thanks for this Stephen. I often get disappointed and depressed because I compare myself to other Artists. It's a little bit more tricky for me as my brother is also an Artist and is further along in the road than I am. While I don't often compare myself to him too much, I feel everyone else does. Especially when they say things like 'Ah sorry, I'd go to your brother if I needed anything'. I am however, just plodding along and enjoying the journey :) or trying to anyway haha.
Hi Stephen! Thanks again for sharing the post. You know? In other comments I've expressed how accurate I felt your talkings, and this ain't the exception... Something I've learnt around the web (esp UA-cam) is there're 3 main keys to walk upon success: focus, commitment and discipline. And those hit directly on self-esteem. Even though it's still hard, I'm trying my best to keep going forward. About wife's call... LOL! It happens!! XD By the way, where can I find your talking about dealing with art and kids? You can guess why (newly parents maybe?). Have a good one!
I say, ride that depression. You can't help it. It's not a symptom of a mental illness... Other than the one which manifests in the fact that we want to be professional artists. It will come but it will pass. I have found that it is usually because I hate what I am drawing (and have been looking at other peoples amazing work) which is usually a sign that I'm about to step it up. It's natural I think. Like when kids are about to have a growth spurt they put on a little weight first. Well, when artists are about to level up, they hate themselves and their work and can totally see the value in getting work as a door stop or a subway sandwhich maker.
That's probably my personal favourite Art Talk of the whole bunch. You're a great inspiration to me and many others. Thanks Stephen! :D p.s. Madonna? Really? :P
The thing that gets me depressed so much is not having financial freedom because everyday I feel such anxiety and fear just about money and not being able to just sit dawn and draw and study what I need to. I tell myself, man if only I could get a job doing art it would be so nice.
+Stephen Silver love it cause its my escape from home without actually leaving home. Also ur right never soul worry of other s art is a self expression
Its okay, existential crisis, year long dry periods, deeply hating your own work and wanting to chop your own hands off is perfectly normal and shared by everyone! life is a journey FUCK YOU
I’m sorry about what you are going through. I can only speak about what I know and share thoughts. This video has personally helped many people but can’t help all. Sorry it offended you.
Hi Stephen! Thanks again for sharing the post. You know? In other comments I've expressed how accurate I felt your talkings, and this ain't the exception... Something I've learnt around the web (esp UA-cam) is there're 3 main keys to walk upon success: focus, commitment and discipline. And those hit directly on self-esteem. Even though it's still hard, I'm trying my best to keep going forward. About wife's call... LOL! It happens!! XD By the way, where can I find your talking about dealing with art and kids? You can guess why (newly parents maybe?). Have a good one!
Wow I really needed to hear this. I am currently battling with anxiety and depression been unmotivated for weeks just doodling mindless drawings. I am taking small baby steps to get on my feet again :)
I really appreciate how encouraging you are. I hate how depression in the arts is mentioned as a glamorous thing you must have to be successful. In some cases (such as my own) I feel that depression, fear, [and envy] doesn't let artists grow.
I went through really bad art depression this week, and I have had an art block for the past month... it got so bad I was considering of dropping drawing altogether. However I kept going back to my sketchbook, going back to my digital drawings and keep on drawing, something didn't allow me to give up even if I was feeling that way. What you say is true, depression, fear and insecurities can hold and artist's growth, it does not allow you to see that you have improved in some way, and it does not allow you to feel proud of what you've created. Watching this video, in combination with a really great article I read has made me get back on feet and draw with love once again. I hope that anyone that is going through this right now just know that it will be over... maybe soon, maybe not, but it will pass! Sending good vibes!! (sorry for the long paragraph too ; ; ! )
Stephen this one was HUGE... Thanks.
Thanks for this particular Art Talk, Stephen. It was a great (and necessary) thing to hear.
You really save my days
thanks for reaching out and speaking about the downsides. feeling less alone here now. you are a great encouragement to the young artist that i am :D thank you
Hey Stephen!!
Thanks for your kind words man, I'm absolutely devoted to your monday's speech.
My god, this resonated with me so much. Thank you.
Keep inspiring us as an artist, Stephen! Thanks for all your words!
Peace from Indonesia
Thanks for posting. An old friend from the 'hood just landed himself a gig at a big studio after years of being at smaller places. the thought of "What the hell are you doing still working here" once again crossed the ol' frontal lobes, but your video came at the perfect time for me again, reminding all of us that overvaluing others' achievements means you're also undervaluing your own.
somone might post a picture of a holiday on facebook sharing a great moment but they will return to thier 9 to 5 job and it will be another memory. Artistic people go to worlds that the average person can only reach through another persons creativity. That being said its not to hate on people sharing a great time on social media. Its just to keep things in perspective. Being jealous doesnt make sense because other peoples situation, good or bad doesnt change your current situation in life. I wish all good people the best in life.
Just the video I needed to watch. I'm so happy you made all these. Thanks Stephen!
Hi Stephen, I am really enjoying listening to all your talks, they are great and even myself need to be reminded of some things you say. Keep posting them!
+Sandro Cleuzo thanks so much Sandro
Great Video! I always love your words of wisdom
I was feeling kinda sad cause I lost a contest I put so much effort in. But you are right! We must quit comparing ourselves and start focusing in what we already have. A great message, Thank you :)
i know the feels just continue drawing every day. Don't let contest make u feel like us not good enough
Thank you, Stephen.
Not sure how you *knew* this is what I needed to hear this week (LOL). But having gone through some recent rejection of my artwork this past weekend it sent me into a depressive state.
It's always helpful to pull back and remember that this is a journey, even though some of us are closer to the end of it than the beginning.
Thanks again.
Thank you for these videos Mr. Silver. So inspiring to hear someone like you talk about these things, the difficulties, the "tortured" mindset I usually fall back on. I feel understood lol. Love the advice.
Thanks Stephen! Great words of encouragement!
thank you so much for doing these videos! they do really keep me going :)
Vilma Agostinho so happy to hear
I really look forward to these talks. I'm trying to improve not only my art but my attitude toward work and they honestly help a lot. It gives me hope that someday my life can be where I want it to be or who knows, I could even be in a better place than I ever imagined. I'm not sure if I'm explaining myself well.
I really needed to hear this. I have been feeling down about my work and you are so right about Ithaca and the fact that all of this will pass
Great!. Great channel, thanks for share this words. I need listen this.
Hugs from Brazil!.
Bruna Costa Thanks Bruna
Really loving you videos today Stephen! Sooo awesome that I found you! Or did you find me? hmmmm no accidents ;)
I needed this so much the past few weeks i have felt crap, this helped alot! cheers Stephen
i've been tortured for around 15 years now. i am 30 now and still confused and wanting more. i had to work in call centres for over 5 years..i believe i have the potential for a more fulfilling life. i tend to also gravitate to character and creature design as well as animal art. thanks for the talk.
Thank you for inspiration. Your videos are awesome!
Thanks, Stephen. I've been having one of those weeks this past week.
thank you so much for this video.
Oh so very good! And timely - thanks - I like the way you pronounce 'last' by the way- its most unexpected in a stream of American accent
You're so great Stephen!! Thank you :>
I really enjoy your weekly videos!! they keep me motivated when I'm sketching :)
Thank you so much !!
I am going through that, although this time is taking longer than usually, I am willing to keep striving for my dreams.
every day, a little bit better :D
I am glad I saw this, because be,I’ve it or not, people have actually wanted to be me, yet, I could never understand why? Because some of the experiences they hear about me having from when I was younger & even now, I didn’t want to have & some I did want to have, but sometimes I wonder, why does this happen to me? Then I tend to think, well, God wouldn’t throw anything my way that he didn’t think that I couldn’t handle.
Really needed this. I thank you so much
Your welcome
Loved this one. An idea for a Art Talk that I get in loads of arguments with people - "Is photography art?" Granted, it takes a tinge of skill to capture something, yet you have picture frames with family photos in them. Would one consider them art? If so, then practically everything that's colorful and in a frame automatically becomes art, and then we lose the definition completely.
So I like to say that natural aesthetic isn't art, but as soon you alter the composition of the environment or manipulate the image in a editor, then it becomes art. But then again - how would you know if something's altered or not? It's quite a debacle.
I got in this Depression but I got out of it cause all the artist that you are enyoing are good to improve your style, so that you be at one day this artist that inspire other people. That means: dont be tired that your style doesnt look like the artists style that you so much love, instead learn Form this artist and make your style even better.
PS: love your Videos stefen Iam a big fan
PSS: sorry for my bad english^^
FavouriteHobbyDrawing Thank you
Nice new opening and closing music, Stephen.
Thanks for this Stephen. I often get disappointed and depressed because I compare myself to other Artists. It's a little bit more tricky for me as my brother is also an Artist and is further along in the road than I am. While I don't often compare myself to him too much, I feel everyone else does. Especially when they say things like 'Ah sorry, I'd go to your brother if I needed anything'.
I am however, just plodding along and enjoying the journey :) or trying to anyway haha.
Never compare yourself to other artists, you won't progress. Compare you with you.
Hi Stephen! Thanks again for sharing the post.
You know? In other comments I've expressed how accurate I felt your talkings, and this ain't the exception... Something I've learnt around the web (esp UA-cam) is there're 3 main keys to walk upon success: focus, commitment and discipline. And those hit directly on self-esteem.
Even though it's still hard, I'm trying my best to keep going forward.
About wife's call... LOL! It happens!! XD
By the way, where can I find your talking about dealing with art and kids? You can guess why (newly parents maybe?).
Have a good one!
Thank You For This ✨
I say, ride that depression. You can't help it. It's not a symptom of a mental illness... Other than the one which manifests in the fact that we want to be professional artists. It will come but it will pass. I have found that it is usually because I hate what I am drawing (and have been looking at other peoples amazing work) which is usually a sign that I'm about to step it up. It's natural I think. Like when kids are about to have a growth spurt they put on a little weight first. Well, when artists are about to level up, they hate themselves and their work and can totally see the value in getting work as a door stop or a subway sandwhich maker.
Great Video!
That's probably my personal favourite Art Talk of the whole bunch. You're a great inspiration to me and many others. Thanks Stephen! :D
p.s. Madonna? Really? :P
Craig Russell yeah why not ?
The thing that gets me depressed so much is not having financial freedom because everyday I feel such anxiety and fear just about money and not being able to just sit dawn and draw and study what I need to. I tell myself, man if only I could get a job doing art it would be so nice.
Damn you're right, thanks for the other perspective.
This was such an important topic, thank you so much. Do you think that having someone tha loves you changes that?
+Senior Adrian it all helps
Can i buy your book at the Schoolism workshop in Berlin?
Wouter Winter yes
Holy S@#$T Thanks this really helps really help
M a photographer artist. M suffering from depression how to overcome it
any bio's that you coul'd reccomend/ tnx
Hahahahaha are you inside my mind? That's the movie Inside Out for artists, you know?
T h a n k y o u .
have depression on my art well I feel good about my style but no feedback or likes lead me to think I suck
Do it because you love and enjoy it. Don't worry about the others.
+Stephen Silver love it cause its my escape from home without actually leaving home. Also ur right never soul worry of other s art is a self expression
Its okay, existential crisis, year long dry periods, deeply hating your own work and wanting to chop your own hands off is perfectly normal and shared by everyone! life is a journey
FUCK YOU
I’m sorry about what you are going through. I can only speak about what I know and share thoughts. This video has personally helped many people but can’t help all. Sorry it offended you.
Hi Stephen! Thanks again for sharing the post.
You know? In other comments I've expressed how accurate I felt your talkings, and this ain't the exception... Something I've learnt around the web (esp UA-cam) is there're 3 main keys to walk upon success: focus, commitment and discipline. And those hit directly on self-esteem.
Even though it's still hard, I'm trying my best to keep going forward.
About wife's call... LOL! It happens!! XD
By the way, where can I find your talking about dealing with art and kids? You can guess why (newly parents maybe?).
Have a good one!
Horacio Salazar Gómez Thanks. I know it is in one of my talks. I think its in the title. Being a dad or parent
Ok, I'll search! Thanks! :)
Have a good one!