How to Build Confidence as an Artist: Overcome Doubt & Embrace Your Art
We’ve all faced the blank canvas stare-down. Deep breath. You’ve got this.
We’ve all been there. The blank canvas stares back at you, a mountain of self-doubt rises, and your inner critic starts chanting, “Who are you to be an artist?” I get it - trust me, I’ve been through the ringer myself. The good news? Confidence isn’t something you're born with; it’s something you can build. So, if you're struggling with those “am I good enough?” thoughts, don’t worry. Let’s talk about how to silence that pesky inner critic and step into your power as an artist.
Acknowledge Your Doubts (They’re Normal)
First things first: doubt is completely normal. Every artist, no matter how experienced, has moments when they question their talent or feel insecure about their work. The key is not to let these doubts rule your process.
Tip for artists:
Instead of avoiding your doubts, welcome them. Acknowledge them as a part of your creative journey.
Write them down if you need to—sometimes just putting it on paper makes it seem less scary.
Realize that doubt doesn’t define your worth as an artist.
Writing down your doubts is like putting gremlins in a jar - you can still see them, but they’re not running the show.
Trust Your Instincts
Your gut is an incredibly powerful tool when it comes to making art. If something feels off in your work, listen to that feeling. If a colour or texture excites you, lean into it. Trusting your instincts allows you to create work that is true to your inner voice.
Tip for artists:
The next time you’re unsure about a painting or idea, pause and ask yourself, “What do I really want here?”
Go with what feels right, not what you think others will like.
Your confidence will grow when you start trusting your creative instincts.
Messy hands, happy heart. Trust what feels right in the moment.
Create Without Expectations
One of the biggest blocks to building confidence is attaching unrealistic expectations to your work. When you expect every painting to be perfect, it’s easy to become discouraged. Instead, focus on the process rather than the outcome.
Tip for artists:
Set out to create for the joy of creating, not for validation.
Focus on learning, experimenting, and growing. Let go of the need for every piece to be a masterpiece.
Remember, you’re developing your skills with every brushstroke.
Perfection is overrated. Let the paint fly and the learning happen.
Celebrate Small Wins
Building confidence as an artist isn’t about waiting until you have a gallery show to feel proud - it’s about celebrating the little victories along the way. Did you finish a piece you’re proud of? Celebrate it! Did you try a new technique and succeed? Woo-hoo! Take a moment to acknowledge those achievements.
Tip for artists:
Create a “win list.” Every time you finish a piece or achieve something new, write it down.
At the end of the month, look back at all the things you’ve accomplished.
Seeing and celebrating your progress is a great way to boost your confidence.
One step at a time, one painting at a time. Celebrate every little win.
Find Your Artistic Community
It’s so important to have a support system, especially when you’re building confidence. Whether it’s fellow artists, friends, or collectors, surrounding yourself with people who understand and appreciate art can help you feel seen and supported.
Tip for artists:
Seek out a community, whether online or in person. Join art groups, attend workshops, or connect with other artists on social media.
Share your work with others who “get it”. This can help reduce that feeling of isolation and boost your confidence.
Art gets better with friends. Community is a confidence booster.
Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Building confidence as an artist is an ongoing journey. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s not something you “arrive” at and then forget about. It’s about continuing to create, learning from your mistakes, and embracing your growth.
Tip for artists:
Remember that growth takes time. Don’t rush the process.
Embrace the ups and downs of your creative journey.
As long as you keep showing up and making art, you’re moving in the right direction.
Final Thoughts
So, how do you build confidence as an artist? By acknowledging your doubts, trusting your instincts, creating without expectations, celebrating your progress, and finding your community. Confidence isn’t something that comes instantly, but with time and practice, you’ll get there. And the more confident you become, the more your art will reflect that strength.
Remember: you are worthy of creating and sharing your work with the world. No need to wait for some magical moment of “perfection.” Your confidence will grow the more you create, share, and trust yourself. Lets face it, there are lots of things the world doesn’t need more of, but people who create, express their feelings and share, are not one of them. So, get out there and make art that’s true to you—you’ve got this!
