On the Level

September 7, 2024


In the world of art, we often find ourselves in awe of the titans—those whose names echo through the halls of museums and whose works are etched into the fabric of cultural history. These “greats” are celebrated for their unparalleled talent, their ability to push boundaries, and their transformative impact on society. But what about the countless artists who don’t achieve fame or whose works never grace the walls of prestigious galleries? What about those who create simply for the joy of creating, without the aspiration of reaching the heights of artistic greatness? It’s crucial to recognize that art comes in many forms, and that’s exactly how it should be.

Embracing the Spectrum of Art

Art is not a singular pursuit nor a linear journey. Instead, it exists on a vast spectrum, where one end holds groundbreaking masterpieces and the other, the quiet, personal creations that might never be seen by the masses. We celebrate the artists who challenge the status quo, but equally important are those who engage with art as a form of personal expression, therapy, or pure enjoyment.

At one end of the spectrum, you have works that redefine culture, that shift the course of history. These are the paintings that hang in museums, the symphonies performed in concert halls, the books that define literary movements. These artists are driven by a larger ambition, one that reaches beyond personal satisfaction and into the realm of legacy. But on the other end, we find the everyday creators—those who paint for themselves, write for their own catharsis, play music for the sheer pleasure of it. Their work may never enter a museum, and their names may not be known beyond their immediate circle, but that doesn’t diminish the value of their creations.

It’s easy to think that the most visible artists are the only ones who matter, but the reality is that all art matters. Every brushstroke, every line of poetry, every note played contributes to the larger tapestry of human creativity. Art is as much about the process of creation as it is about the final product, and both ends of the spectrum hold significance in their own right.

The Core of Artistic Intent

What truly defines art is not how big or small the audience is, but the intention behind it. Whether you’re an amateur painter enjoying a weekend hobby or a seasoned sculptor preparing for a major exhibition, the essence of art lies in your intent. For some, it’s about reaching others, evoking emotions, or making a statement that challenges societal norms. For others, it’s a way of processing feelings, finding clarity in chaos, or simply losing themselves in the act of creation.

The key is to understand your artistic goals. What are you hoping to achieve? Is it personal fulfillment? A sense of community? Emotional release? The beauty of art lies in its ability to serve these different needs—there is no one-size-fits-all. When you align your work with your intention, you release the pressure of external expectations and open the door to genuine creativity.

By embracing your artistic path without comparison, you create space for your own unique voice to flourish. There’s freedom in knowing that the only standards you need to meet are the ones you set for yourself. The most authentic art comes from an artist who knows who they are and what they want to say, whether that’s to the world at large or just to themselves.

The Greats: A Different Level of Commitment

When we turn our attention to those artists who have attained fame and recognition, it’s easy to assume that their success is due to talent or luck alone. While talent certainly plays a role, what truly sets these artists apart is their unwavering commitment to their craft. Greatness is rarely accidental; it is the result of tireless dedication, a relentless pursuit of improvement, and a willingness to fail and try again.

The “greats” are not simply people who get it right—they are those who persist. They show up every day, often for years, honing their skills and deepening their understanding of their medium. Their process is defined not by a single moment of inspiration, but by years of practice, experimentation, and an insatiable desire to explore and push boundaries.

This kind of commitment demands more than just time; it requires emotional energy, vulnerability, and an openness to the unpredictable nature of creation. These artists take risks, both personal and professional. They challenge their own limitations and, in doing so, often redefine the very nature of their art.

The Daily Ritual of Creation

Whether you’re an aspiring great or someone simply enjoying the act of creation, the daily ritual of creating is essential. It’s through routine that we develop our craft, deepen our connection to our medium, and truly engage with the process. Just like athletes train their bodies daily to improve their skills, artists must cultivate a practice that fosters creativity.

But it’s important to recognize that not every session needs to result in a masterpiece. The value lies in showing up, in the act of engaging with your materials and ideas. The creative process is as much about the moments of struggle, the failed attempts, and the unexpected breakthroughs as it is about the polished final product.

Even when things don’t go as planned, there is growth. The discipline of practicing every day, whether you’re drawing, writing, or painting, creates a deeper understanding of both your medium and yourself. The more you engage with your art, the more fluent you become in the language of creation. It’s in these daily acts of exploration that your unique voice emerges and evolves.

Finding Your Path

The beauty of art lies in its infinite variety. There is no single path to take, no one definition of success. Whether you pursue your craft casually or with an eye toward greatness, the journey is yours to define. The most important thing is to honor your own path and to create without the burden of comparison.

Greatness in art isn’t always measured by widespread recognition or public acclaim. Sometimes, greatness is a deeply personal journey, marked by moments of self-discovery and connection. It can be found in the way a piece of art makes you feel, or in the way it resonates with a small but dedicated audience.

Whether you're scribbling in a notebook, crafting your next short story, or preparing for a gallery show, remember that your voice matters. The act of creation is valuable in and of itself. It’s the experience of creating, not the recognition it might bring, that holds true significance.

Art is about connection—connection to ourselves, to our communities, and to the world around us. It’s about showing up every day, engaging with the process, and allowing ourselves to grow. Whether your goal is fame or simply self-expression, the most important thing is that you stay true to your artistic vision. In doing so, you create something that, at its core, is always a form of greatness.