My Journey as an Artist: Debunking Misconceptions

Common Myths About Being an Artist

1. "I'll spend most of my time in the studio, creating."

This was a big one for me. I started painting young—at 10—and by 16, I was already doing commissions. So, I thought being a full-time artist meant I'd just be making art all day. But turning art into a business is a whole different story. It’s not just painting—it's everything else, too: marketing, sales, logistics, pricing, content, and connection.

Art isn't mass-produced. What we offer is deeply personal; it's our story in every brushstroke. Running an art business means honoring that while also learning to wear a thousand hats.

2. "People will recognize me as an artist by my paint-covered clothes."

Photo credit: South Bay Magazine

I used to imagine myself walking around like a bohemian icon—paint on my jeans, hair tied up messily, with everyone stopping me to ask, "Are you an artist?" (and then, of course, I'd be featured in a magazine spread).

Reality: I walk around in paint-covered clothes… and no one bats an eye. 😂

3. "Creativity flows endlessly when you do what you love."

The more you establish your style and grow as an artist, the more pressure you put on yourself to keep creating at a certain level. Once you're past the beginner experimentation phase, creative flow doesn't just show up like magic. You have to work with it, build it, invite it.

4. "Inspiration just hits you."

Nope. I don't think inspiration is this one-time lightning bolt thing. As artists, we learn to see the world through a different lens—we're always looking for references.

Deadlines, structure, and a deep understanding of a project often bring more clarity than just waiting for a muse. I once had only four days to create a complementary pair of large paintings. Instead of panicking, I spent the first two days studying the space where the art would be shown, learning about the event and audience.

Once I connected those dots, I painted two magical pieces that became a huge success—one sold on the spot. Sometimes, inspiration comes after the research and trust.

5. "Having more time means I'll create more."

That's not true at all. When I had part-time jobs like waitressing or bartending, my art time was limited but sacred. When I became a full-time artist, I had all the time…and didn't know how to manage any of it.

I had to learn how to run a business from scratch—marketing, creating a website, and building an Instagram presence. Ironically, my painting time decreased while I was learning everything else that supports an art career.

6. "You have to suffer to create something beautiful."

I didn't grow up with the "tortured artist" myth because, honestly, I didn't have many artist role models around me. But I did grow up hearing: "Find something that will make you rich—because it's not art."

That belief took time to unravel. Now, I know that survival mode doesn't breed beauty. Mental and physical health are essential. I journal almost daily—it's my way to understand my emotions and bring joy through my work. Art is an extension of how I feel inside. The better I care for myself, the more aligned and fulfilling my creations become.

7. "Artists don't need structure."

This one is a trap! Structure is everything. Workflow, systems, and deadlines help creativity flourish instead of burn out.

8. "A healthy lifestyle has nothing to do with creativity."

Wrong again. Health = sustainable creativity. The cliché of the artist who paints while drinking and getting lost in addictions? That's outdated. All the successful artists I admire prioritize wellness. It allows us to keep showing up for the work we love.

9. "When things get slow, it means you're not good enough."

I still work on this belief sometimes. It's easy to fall into that spiral when things are quiet, but I remind myself that everything is cyclical. It shall pass. The quiet seasons often lead to the most transformative creations.

10. "The artist's life is all about creating."

Now, I see it differently. It's not just about always creating—it's about creating a life, a rhythm, and a business that supports your goals and joy. It's about weaving your art into a life that feels good, balanced, and intentional.

Embracing the Reality of an Artist's Journey

So, if you're dreaming of the artist's life… keep dreaming. Just remember to pack some business tools, journal pages, good coffee, and the willingness to grow in unexpected ways. Because it's not just art—it's becoming who you really are through your art.

And for collectors, it's not just a painting—they're investing in a story, a soul, and a living, breathing expression of life itself. It's an invitation to be part of something meaningful and deeply human.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Color Your Life!

Drica