The answer is always yes.
Without art, in its many forms, the world would be a cheerless, drab, unpleasant place. Art, I would argue, is what most sets human beings apart from the rest of the animal kingdom.
Human beings have been creating art for over 45,000 years. Cave paintings are part of our collective history. What constitutes art has evolved over the years and is still evolving.
Most people think of paintings, books, music, sculpture, and architecture as art. All of which are. But it extends far beyond this.
Much of the art in our world is taken for granted. Food – combining herbs, spices, salt, acid, and so on – is art. Cars are art. Even the electronic devices we rely on to communicate across the globe are a form of art.
It’s for this reason, and more, why the answer to the question “Should I make art?” is always yes.
Just do it
Many forms of art spark controversy. That’s because some are created specifically to disrupt, question, and awaken empowerment and change.
The majority simply fits itself into everyday life. That thing you have that was designed and crafted by somebody, even if it’s just practical.
To make art is to desire to give something to the Universe, to put something out there for others to see and enjoy. Admittedly, sometimes this is mostly about ego and legacy, but that doesn’t lessen its import. When you make art, you are expressing yourself creatively.
Being a creator is a choice. Yet even those who don’t actively choose it are still creatives. In many ways, living your life is a form of creation that is worth you, your time, energy, and so on.
What form art takes is not important. Whether it’s “art” in the sense of books, paintings, and the like – or art in the sense of baking a cake, creating a spreadsheet, or performing a scientific experiment – it matters.
One of the biggest problems in our collective consciousness and the “norms” of our society is the near-obsession with routine and conformity. Despite what creativity brings into the world, many of those “in power” fear those who make art because it disrupts the status quo.
The truth is, however, that the status quo is always shifting and changing. That’s because change is the one and only constant in the Universe, after all. When you make art, whatever form that takes, you are participating in helping change take shape.
Make art for everyone
Art can be escapism into another world. Sometimes that world becomes part of the world we know. How many devices from the future depicted on Star Trek are real today? That was art inspiring the creation of practical things.
When you make art, there’s no telling what impact it could have. That applies not just to those who might see your art, but also to you. I write sci-fi because it brings me joy and I love the idea that it might help others imagine more. Imagination is how inspiration turns fantasy and science fiction into reality.
That might be a bold statement, but in my experience, it’s entirely true. Making art is not just painting, writing a book, sculpting, and so on. It’s an act of empowerment, showing that you are capable and able to give something to the world and help drive the human race forward.
Should you make art? Hell yes. Always. And don’t worry if it’s arty enough, good enough, or sellable. Just do it and let what comes of it impact you how it may.
One last note. Making art is not selfish. Self-expression is rarely selfish (unless it causes intentional harm). Take that to heart, the next time you wonder “Should I make art?” Who knows how what you create might well empower or inspire you, let alone the world at large.
Thanks for reading. As I share my creative journey with you, I conclude with this: How are you inspired to be your own creator – whatever form that takes?
Please take a moment to check out the collection of my published works, which can be found here.
Feel free to explore the rest of the website.
Please subscribe to my newsletter. Fill in the info, click the submit button to the right, and get your free eBooks.
Follow me here!
You must be logged in to post a comment.