Chapter 1: The Artistic Identity

Throughout my life, I’ve aspired to be an artist—someone whose creativity flows effortlessly into the world. An individual capable of expressing profound thoughts and emotions through their chosen medium, inspiring others in the process.

Yet, one lesson I've gleaned from nearly three decades of living in society is that we paradoxically idolize artists while simultaneously undermining the very essence of artistry, particularly through the lens of economic value.

How else can we explain the widespread admiration for figures like Banksy, who commands attention and respect, while local artists at community markets are often told to pursue “more practical” endeavors or to contribute in ways deemed more valuable?

Are we only considered artists when we achieve financial success? Must we wait for the approval of the "successful" segment of society to claim that identity?

Beyond societal expectations, when do we personally recognize ourselves as artists?

From a young age, I have been creatively inclined. My interests seemed to shift almost daily—I wanted to sketch cartoons, write stories, and even construct robots. It might have appeared aimless at times, but my drive to create and imagine was evident.

Then, abruptly, it seems to halt.

Those critical voices in our heads—often reflections of societal opinions—begin to take hold. They whisper that our artistic pursuits are “a waste of time,” a “misuse of potential,” or “not practical.” Thus, we cease to create and express ourselves.

If someone once embraced their artist identity, can they truly abandon it? If the ideas remain trapped within us, persistently yearning for expression, does that mean we still embody the artist within?

Is the essence of artistry found in the intention behind our creativity or in the act of creation itself?

If I possess countless stories waiting to be told and philosophies simmering beneath the surface, am I still an artist, even if they never materialize into words? Must I have tangible proof to validate my artistic identity, or is the mere concept sufficient?

I believe artistry transcends the medium; it lies in the journey of discovering—or rediscovering—our creative selves. Much of what we long to express stems from grappling with the barriers that hindered us from doing so in the first place.

When the desire to create finally translates into action, is that when we earn the title of "artist"?

Is it even a title that requires earning?

Or do we eventually reach a point where we stop denying our innate creativity, acknowledging that perhaps we were always who we aspired to be?

The video "What Makes An Artist? David Hockney - YouTube" delves into the essence of artistry, examining the nuances that define an artist beyond societal constraints.

Chapter 2: The Role of Societal Expectations

In this chapter, we will explore how societal pressures shape our understanding of what it means to be an artist.

The video "What Makes a Great Artist | Great Artists Explained - YouTube" provides insights into the qualities that distinguish great artists and how societal recognition influences our perception of artistry.