Chapter 1: Embracing Your Artist Identity

When it comes to expressing your artistic self, it’s not just about your words — it encompasses your outlook on the world, your mindset, and your actions.

Photo credit: iStock

By Eric Maisel

In this series titled “Your Creative Life,” I aim to illustrate how you can cultivate creativity in your daily existence and maintain a vibrant creative journey. If this resonates with you, consider exploring a role as a creativity coach. For more information, check out my certificate and diploma programs or my latest book, The Coach’s Way. Join the Eric Maisel Community for further engagement!

While you might exude confidence in various aspects of your life, you may feel less secure when it comes to your artistic endeavors or discussing your work with gallery owners. Merely having a general sense of confidence isn’t sufficient for artists who aspire to thrive; what you need is a specific confidence in your artistry.

What if you lack this artistic confidence? You may settle for your initial ideas without delving deeper; you might completely avoid encounters; think on a smaller scale; give up at the first sign of difficulty (which is inevitable); or shy away from opportunities in the marketplace. This lack of faith in your artistic abilities and your capacity to market yourself can significantly hinder your career.

So, what should you feel confident about? Not about ensuring the success of a particular project — it’s important not to fixate on outcomes. You can’t escape missteps, mistakes, or chaos; these are integral to the creative process. Instead, cultivate a strong belief in your legitimacy as a person and your inherent power to create. When you embrace this sense of self-worth and capability, your artistic practice and marketing efforts will flourish.

Even if you don’t feel entirely confident while creating or promoting your work, keep confidence in your sights as a goal. Just as you strive for excellence in your creations, aim for confidence. This aura of assurance can set you apart in the marketplace. When someone approaches with conviction, you pay attention; but when they seem uncertain, you look for a way out. If you portray yourself as unimportant, you risk being overlooked.

If you find yourself habitually apologizing for your work, retreating from potential buyers, or avoiding interactions in the marketplace, these are patterns you’ll want to break. Changing habits requires consistent effort over months, if not years. It’s unlikely that you can instantly transform from avoiding opportunities to seizing them with a snap of your fingers. Instead, embark on a lifelong journey of self-coaching, reminding yourself daily of your intention to cultivate strength and confidence.

Keep in mind: being quiet is one thing; being meek is another. You can be modest without being self-deprecating. You can hold principles without always placing others before yourself. Step out of the shadows and advocate for your work and future. If you doubt your creations, either work on reducing that doubt or create art that instills less uncertainty. If you question yourself, work towards becoming a version of yourself that you trust.

Present yourself with assurance. If this doesn’t come naturally, practice. Try rehearsing in front of a mirror, in your mind, or with a friend. Practice affirmations like, “I’m proud of my new work,” or “If there’s room for one new artist in your gallery, it should be me, and here’s why.” Rehearse statements like, “I know you collect contemporary surrealists, and I’m pushing those boundaries, so you need to visit my studio!” or “Here are the nine reasons I would be an asset to your gallery.” Keep affirming, “I am producing excellent work, and you should take a look.”

It’s not just about what you express — it’s also about your perspective, mindset, and actions. Are you actively seeking opportunities to showcase your art? Are you brainstorming fresh marketing strategies? Are you considering your next sales prospects? Are you calculating what might resonate in the marketplace? You can either be an active participant or a passive observer. You can either dream of a lucky break or take decisive action.

All of this culminates in a professional demeanor that is savvy, energetic, proactive, enthusiastic, and assertive. Your intentions are transparent: you are committed to succeeding. Your handshake is firm, indicating your readiness to engage customers and attract interest. Your thoughts aren’t consumed with “What should I say?” or “Where’s the exit?” Instead, you know your message and are present, showcasing yourself in the most favorable light.

Even if you don’t feel confident, endeavor to act with confidence. You may find that you grow into that role and persona over time!

Learn how to present your art with assurance through practical strategies in this video, "Presentation Make Art with Confidence."

Discover actionable tips on building your confidence as an artist in "How to Actually Build Your Confidence as an Artist."

Chapter 2: The Path to Professionalism

This journey of nurturing confidence is not a quick fix; it requires dedication and practice. Continue to refine your approach, and remember that confidence is a skill that can be developed.