The Artistic Journey: How Artists Respond to Completing Their Work
Artists are often defined by their creative journeys, but what happens when they reach the endpoint of their artistic endeavors? The response to finishing an artwork can vary widely, reflecting the unique perspectives and motivations of each artist. Here, we explore the diverse reactions and the underlying psychological factors that shape these responses.
Understanding the Diverse Reactions
When an artist completes a piece of artwork, the response can range from immense satisfaction to a desire to refine and improve the work further. There is no 'typical' reaction, as each artist's process is deeply personal and influenced by numerous factors such as the complexity of the work, the time spent on it, and their personal goals and standards.
Relief and Satisfaction
For some artists, the completion of a work brings a sense of relief, especially if the process was long and challenging. After dedicating a significant amount of time and energy to a piece, the release of finishing it can be a profound moment of accomplishment. As one artist mentioned, 'There is no feeling quite like putting the last touch on a piece and stepping back to admire the result.' This satisfaction can be a powerful motivator for their next project.
Perfectionism and the Need to Improve
Other artists are driven by a high level of perfectionism, which leads them to believe that their work is never truly finished. As experienced artist Jane Doe explained, 'my artwork is never really done. I continue to darken the shading here, highlight more or less, and adjust my focal point. True artists are always striving to improve their work.' This unending quest for perfection keeps them engaged and passionate about their craft, even as it can create stress and anxiety.
Critical Reflection and Fear of Failure
Some artists continue to worry about whether they have truly completed their work. They might seek feedback from peers or the public and feel a sense of insecurity if the response is critical. For instance, one artist noted, 'I start a ritual of asking everyone I know to give an opinion. I might still wonder if I haven’t executed certain elements well enough or if the piece doesn't meet the standards I set for myself.' This critical reflection can be both a source of growth and a hindrance to complete satisfaction.
The Role of Emotional Rollercoaster
The emotions that artists experience during and after completing a piece are often intense and variable. The process of creating art can be likened to an emotional rollercoaster, with peaks of excitement and satisfaction followed by moments of doubt and uncertainty. This emotional journey is a vital part of the artistic experience, shaping the final product and the artist's perception of it.
Challenges and Rewards
Despite the emotional challenges, artists find immense rewards in the creative process. Crafting a piece of art requires intense concentration, self-reflection, and dedication. This process can be therapeutic, offering a sense of fulfillment that extends beyond the physical product.
Perseverance and Growth
Ultimately, the artist's journey is one of continuous learning and growth. The struggle to refine and improve a piece of art often leads to new insights and techniques. As "For me in both artwork and my emotional life, I like to have things finished and presentable before I reveal them to the world. I’ve been making art for 35 years and only recently do I really own the success of my artwork and feel that it’s finished, worthy of being called finished, done, perfected." This quote reflects the often prolonged journey towards true artistic fulfillment. Artistic perfection is a perpetual pursuit, and the satisfaction that comes with it is a testament to the depth of an artist's dedication and creativity.
Artists are a diverse and complex group, each with their own unique responses to the completion of their work. Understanding these varied reactions can help us appreciate the depth and complexity of the artistic process. Whether it's relief, satisfaction, or the need to refine, the journey of an artist is a continued exploration of creativity and human expression.