How Artists Develop Their Creative Voice

Hello Good People and welcome to this sun filled August!

I had the pleasure of jurying and awarding an art show this weekend.  The artists were very high caliber and accomplished and I soon realized the basic elements of art and technical skill would not be the total focus of my evaluation.

Today I want to write about the artist's "secret sauce"...their artistic voice.  What is this?  

It refers to an artist's unique style, perspective, and expression and can be seen in their choice of subject and technique.  It reflects the artist's personality and experiences allowing them to convey their ideas and emotions through their painting. 

When an artist is in tune with their unique qualities...and paints what they love...and how they want to paint it...they are expressing true self, and using their voice.  This voice is not fixed and is constantly evolving.

So how does one pick up a paint brush for the first time and get to the point of expressing a beautiful or dynamic idea through painting?

Here's a good spot to break for a visual treat...one of my newer painting:

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Here is my version of  the  phoenix arising from the ashes...
a well lived woman  experiencing the ups and downs of life, who emerges stronger and ready for her next delights, and challenges.
24x30x1.5 oil on canvas

Let's look at the Old Masters.  Many started as apprentices providing them with skills, techniques, and exposure to various styles. They studied anatomy, light, perspective and experimented with different mediums and techniques that allowed them to discover what resonated deep within. 

Life in their time influenced what and how they painted.  They also drew from their personal life experiences, engaged in critical reflection, and welcomed feedback from peers and patrons.
Their artistic voice developed as a culmination of skill, observation, personal expression, and engagement with the world.  They were dedicated to painting and willing to explore.

This sounds familiar to the contemporary artist and addresses the process of development.  Let's put it all together.... after your next visual treat:
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Objects many times have symbols or special significance that elicit meaning.  Combining symbols can aid the artist in storytelling.  Moon is feminine and comes out in the evening when owl is active.  Owl is symbolic for wisdom and intuition and covers the woman's vision, making her rely on inner information. 

This is my voice...my way of interpreting parts of my life and visually creating this idea.
24x30x1.5 Oil on canvas

​How does an artist know if they are utilizing their voice?  There comes a switch when you are no longer imitating but rather, creating your own.  This is a reflection of one's inner knowing.

It's not about adhering to what you feel is expected of you but seeing the potential in an idea and embracing that potential through action.

And one' artistic voice is not about perfection...it's about authenticity.

So, nearing the end of the awards ceremony this weekend I presented an award to a gentleman for an exceptional rendition of his self portrait.  I asked him to talk about his process and the painting, and  at the end he said, "I struggled and didn't like it...so I gave up the struggle, took a big brush, and just started painting."

That is what a deep personal voice looks like and what honored him with
"Best of Show."