How to Unlock Your Creative Potential and Become an Artist

The world of art can be a lucrative field for those who have a passion for creative expression. It allows you to express your imagination and convey emotions through many artistic mediums, from painting to sculpture.

Yet, the world of art is also competitive, where talent alone is not always enough to succeed. To achieve success, you must be willing to do more than just hard work in the studio. This article will guide you through the steps to unlock your creative potential. Read on to find out how to become a good artist and stand out from the crowd.

What is fine art?

Fine art is a form of visual expression created solely for an aesthetic or creative purpose with no practical function. It encompasses a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, drawing, and printmaking.

You can find many examples of different art on Depositphotos, a stock content platform with millions of high-quality, licensed visuals for creative projects. This online library also allows creators of all skill levels to upload their files and earn royalties from every sale.

What does a fine artist do?

A fine artist uses one or more artistic mediums to create a unique work of art. They may engage in painting, sculpture, sketching, and printmaking using a variety of techniques and materials.

As for the creative process, the artist can produce art independently or as part of a creative collective, gallery, or studio. Later, their creations are displayed at exhibitions or sold to collectors or art lovers.

How to become a good artist in 10 steps

1. Learn more about art and hone your skills

All-encompassing knowledge about art can help you decide what you like and dislike, as well as what styles and techniques you want to focus on in your own work. In addition, expertise in art is paramount to selling your artwork and being able to maintain a conversation with art dealers, curators, potential buyers, and art enthusiasts.

Once you learn more about art, it’s time to improve your skills. Take inspiration from the greatest artists throughout history, practice regularly, and experiment with different mediums and techniques. You can also attend workshops or sign up for art classes to further hone your craft.

2. Discover what you're good at

Despite your creative aspirations, you have to be realistic about your skills and abilities. If digital art illustrations are what you excel at, don’t try to be a master oil painter. Finding your strengths and perfecting them is much easier, and it may feel more natural to you.

However, the opposite—trying to force yourself to excel in an area where you lack talent—might only lead to disappointment. After many failed attempts, you will have less motivation to continue and may want to give up painting altogether.



3. Find your style

A signature style is what will set you apart from other artists and make your work recognizable. You might want to experiment and try things to find what feels authentic to you. However, there are more ways to find your art style.

First, you should maximize your knowledge so that you know all the options available to you. Read books, visit art exhibitions, watch videos, and take art classes. If there are no art galleries in your city, try virtual tours. London’s National Gallery and New York’s MoMA both offer virtual tours to explore one of the world's largest art collections.

Second, practice new techniques on a regular basis to find the one you like. As you create art, embrace imperfections. They may help define your unique style. Last, think of the message or story you want to convey through your art.

4. Ask others for their opinion

Many aspiring artists may think, “How can I become an artist if I don’t like my art?” Well, your opinion is biased with self-criticism, and it's important to remember that art is subjective. That’s why it’s best to ask others for their opinion about your art.

If you feel confident enough, you can also display your art in local galleries, museums, or even cafes. Watch the audience’s reactions and take note of how they interpret your work. Another idea is to seek feedback online through social media or art forums.

5. Develop a body of work

How can you be a great artist if you only have one or two works to show? To be taken seriously in the art world, you must have a solid base of artwork. Eight to fifteen pieces is a good starting point to apply for artist residencies, grants, open calls, exhibition opportunities, and art competitions. Note that your artworks must be of a high skill level and similar in style or message.

6. Create a portfolio

To be competitive today, you have to create an online portfolio. It can be a simple website that includes your name, contact information, and a short story about you or your artistic journey. Also, add high-quality images of your artwork, from oil paintings to illustration art, with captions and short descriptions.

7. Build a resume

In addition to a portfolio, it’s also important to create a professional-looking resume that highlights your education, exhibitions, awards, and any relevant experience in the art world. If you don’t have much experience yet, include any relevant classes, workshops, or internships you have participated in.

8. Make connections in the art world

Having a strong online presence is important, but networking is also crucial in the art world. Attend gallery openings, artist talks, and other events to meet other artists, collectors, and gallery owners. These connections will open doors for exhibition opportunities, artwork sales, and potential collaborations.

9. Search for professional opportunities

Competition in the art world is always fierce. Therefore, it's important to actively seek out professional opportunities. Submit your work to juried exhibitions, apply for artist residencies, grants, and competitions, and keep an eye out for calls for submissions.

10. Learn how to be an artist outside of your studio

This may be a hard pill to swallow, but you must learn how to be a good artist both inside and outside of your studio. Your talent and dedication matter, but so does your ability to network, market yourself, and handle the business side of being an artist.

To sum up

As you continue to learn what it takes to become a good artist, don't be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, and they often lead to new discoveries and opportunities. Embrace uncertainty and remember that every great artist was once a beginner.