Can anyone be an artist?

Can anyone be an artist? This question is loaded. It forces us to contemplate what an artist is and the limits of this definition. It’s a very existential question.

Years ago I wanted to believe anyone could be an artist because I needed inspiration. However, in a society that is defined by supply and demand, can anyone truly say anyone can be an artist? If we agree that anyone can, then we are robbing artists of their value.

Also, everyone tells you that you can do anything with hard work and determination. However, art requires skill that depends on hard work. Yet, hard work sometimes cannot develop skill in this field. I have seen some who struggled through art classes because they did not have a natural inclination to do draw. It felt unnatural to them and with the same amount of effort and myself, they still were unable to render objects with detail. So it’s truly hard for me to say that anyone can be an artist.

Today, iPads have made everyone capable of using digital tools to become an illustrator and there seems to be an influx of artists. I think we need to be thinking about other questions. When thinking about this question, there are other things to consider:

Is it important to know the basics of art? Foundational techniques and principles like perspective and shading?

Is it important to know about the masters?

Should an artist be capable of drawing?

Can an artist use any medium to create?

What kind of an artist do you want to be?

If you are considering being an artist and unsure if you should pursue it, there are some questions that will help you to decide. Ask yourself:

In my spare time do I always want to do something creative?

Did I get good grades in my art classes?

Do I have a strong drive to create something every day?

Do you find rendering objects in detail easy?

Do you get excited about creating things?

Do you have a medium you know you love using?