Learn to Unlearn

August 20, 2024


In the journey of artistic practice, the path is filled with learning and unlearning. As you dive into your craft, there’s an abundance of knowledge to absorb. You immerse yourself in the fundamentals of technique and theory, building a solid foundation that enables you to explore your creativity. However, as you progress, a crucial part of your evolution as an artist involves learning to unlearn.

Building Your Foundation

In the formative years of your artistic journey, you invest considerable energy in mastering the basics. You study color theory, composition, and various techniques—each one a stepping stone that leads you toward greater understanding and capability. This foundational knowledge is essential; it equips you with the skills needed to express your vision and communicate through your art.

During this stage, the learning process can feel all-consuming. You’re eager to absorb as much information as possible, experimenting with different styles and approaches. This period is marked by exploration, and the more tools you gather, the more versatile you become as an artist.

Incorporation and Discernment

As time goes on, you begin to incorporate various techniques and theories into your artistic arsenal. This is where the magic happens; you start to realize what resonates with you and what doesn’t. It’s a natural part of the process to discard methods that no longer serve your creative vision.

However, the real challenge emerges as you become more skilled. You find yourself at a crossroads: do you cling to every piece of knowledge you've accumulated, or do you start to shed the excess? This is where the concept of “learning to unlearn” comes into play.

Finding Your Individual Voice

As you advance, it becomes clear that holding onto every technique and theory can hinder your creativity. While having a diverse skill set is valuable, it’s essential to discern which elements truly contribute to your unique artistic expression. To thrive, you must create space for your individual approach to art-making.

This process involves questioning everything you’ve learned. Are there techniques that feel restrictive? Are there theories that don’t align with your vision? By shedding the excess, you open the door to new possibilities and ideas, allowing your voice to emerge more authentically.

Embracing Individuality in Your Art

The act of unlearning is not about discarding all knowledge; it’s about prioritizing what resonates with you. It encourages you to strip away preconceived notions and conventional wisdom that may stifle your creativity. As you let go of what doesn’t serve you, you make room for experimentation, intuition, and spontaneity.

Embracing your individuality means taking risks. It may involve breaking the rules you once held dear, allowing your art to evolve in unexpected directions. This freedom can lead to breakthroughs that reveal your authentic self and unique perspective.

Ongoing Journey

Learning to unlearn is an ongoing journey, not a destination. As you continue to grow as an artist, you’ll inevitably encounter new ideas and techniques. The key is to remain open to learning while also being willing to discard what no longer aligns with your vision.

This process requires self-reflection and a willingness to challenge yourself. Ask questions like: What techniques still excite me? What theories do I want to explore further? What aspects of my art feel most genuine?

Delicate Balance

The path of artistic growth is a delicate balance between learning and unlearning. As you master the fundamentals and build your skill set, remember that the ultimate goal is to discover your unique voice. Embrace the process of shedding what no longer serves you, allowing your creativity to flourish. By learning to unlearn, you’ll find yourself not just as a better artist, but as a more authentic creator—ready to make your mark on the world.