The Weirdest Compliments I've Ever Gotten About My Art (And What They Taught Me)

Hey, hello there, friend!

Have you ever received a compliment that made you pause and think, “Wait, what?”

As an artist, I've learned that people react to your work in various ways. Some stand in silence, completely immersed. Others walk right past. Then there are those who say something so unexpected that it sticks with you for years.

My Journey as a Professional Artist

When I started out as a professional artist, I spent my first three years showcasing my work at art fairs. This period became my "training ground." It was essential for gaining confidence and collecting something even more valuable: real feedback. And oh, did I receive some memorable comments!

"Your art is too pragmatic."

This feedback came during an exhibition. Initially, I felt disappointed. "Pragmatic"? Did that mean obvious? Literal? Was my art too easy to grasp?

I let that comment linger in my mind. Eventually, I realized—it was just pragmatic from that person's viewpoint. What felt direct and bold to them was merely me following my curiosity. Maybe "pragmatic" wasn’t a flaw but rather a reflection of how someone else perceives the world.

"Your ocean doesn't look like an ocean."

Drica Lobo, Between Rocks, signed 2023

Ah, yes. The ocean. My layered, dreamy, swirling seascapes. My first instinct was to explain how those brush strokes represent vibration, frequency, and the feeling of the ocean rather than just seeing it.

I’ve never aimed to paint the ocean exactly as it is. I prefer bending reality, mixing fantasy, and exaggerating emotion. While the comment initially surprised me, it prompted reflection on how I define my style. It reminded me that not everyone has to "get" my work.

What These Compliments Really Taught Me

These strange, slightly offbeat comments inspired me to dive deeper into my art. When I began painting and establishing my voice, I lacked a substantial "why." I was merely following my curiosity, guided by intuition.

I will never forget the first palm tree I painted. The moment felt so effortless. It whispered to me, there’s something here. For me, that effortless creation is a sign. When it flows easily, it’s usually because you’re aligned with something true. That’s how I’ve continued to build my artistic language—by following my ease, hunches, and sparks of curiosity.

The Role of Feedback in Art

Feedback can be powerful. It offers insights into how others perceive and feel about my work.

Some people stop and stare.

Some ask me questions about my process.

Some say nothing at all.

Others offer comments I never would have expected.

But I welcome all of it because each reaction helps me align my visual language with what I aim to express. They remind me of the power of evoking emotion through art. I believe one of the most important roles of an artist is to convey messages that resonate with others and make them feel.

The Power of Emotional Connections

Creating emotional connections with viewers is crucial. Art has the ability to speak volumes. It can make us laugh, cry, think, and reflect.

And if my art could talk back to those viewers? It would likely say: "I'm not what you think. I'm who you are."

Conclusion: Share Your Experiences

Have you ever received a compliment that made you laugh, rethink, or reflect? I’d love to hear about your experiences!

Art is a journey. Each comment, every piece of feedback shapes the artist we become. It teaches us to embrace the unexpected and to grow.

Color Your Life!

Drica

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