Creating Meaningful Art

• The duality of significance and insignificance
• What does meaningful art do?
• Get rid of pressure and remain confident
• Staying true to your intentions
• 6 Steps toward creating meaningful art

Your Reality Versus the Bigger Picture

We all have different motivations for why we create. Among those is often the desire to make art that is impactful to people. In a recent episode of the “On Purpose” podcast, Jay Shetty speaks with his guest about the duality in the feeling of living a significant or insignificant life. “Your own reality versus the bigger picture.” This was an interesting concept, especially when related to the creative process. We all face many challenges as artists, such as questioning the impact of our work. These thoughts are understandable as we spend countless hours, giving much of ourselves in efforts to create things that resonate. But is there actually a middle ground to these feelings of being significant or insignificant?

What Is Meaningful Art?

We can all recall moments we’ve seen the world stop in awe of the works of artists that speak to the masses. If we are honest with ourselves, we all want people to engage with our work in this way. An article by“Psychology Today” touches on the topic of art and science, describing “5 things that make art meaningful”. Meaningful art inspires and presents positive new ideas. It connects and relates to others. Although we strive for artistic excellence, is this stress to make meaningful art healthy for a creative mindset?

Both Sides Of The Coin

You might feel a level of pressure that comes with the desire to create impactful art. Looking at the bigger picture, we can gain new perspective and learn to accept that our efforts may not always seem as significant as we intended. On the other hand, the thought that your ideas are insignificant can lower self-confidence, hindering you creatively. In an article published on “Project Wednesday” inspired by everyday stories, Rosie Wylor-Owen describes her breakthrough in which the weight of her need to feel important was lifted. She explained that during a trip to South America, she was reminded of the vast world around us, making her perceived shortcomings seem less of a burden.

Stay True To Your Intentions

Many of us are familiar with the renowned artist Vincent Van Gogh, who sold only two paintings during his lifetime. Despite this, his significance today is undeniable. By allowing space to express yourself freely while remaining true to your intentions as an artist, we can find the middle ground between the dual thoughts of significance and insignificance. As we move forward in our creative journeys, let us be mindful of our creative consciousness. Continue to grow and seek connection. Create from a place of passion for the discovery of self. The rest will follow.

6 Steps Toward Creating Meaningful Art:

1. Journal your ideas and thoughts.
2. Embrace moments of silence; practice self-awareness. Be conscious of your thoughts.
3. Identify your “why?”
4. Gain perspective.
5. Dedicate yourself to developing your skill set and artistic spirit.
6. Take time to read and learn more from those before you and next to you.