Show Notes
Who told you that you weren't an artist? This episode dives deep into that pesky little question and explores how those offhand comments can stick to us like gum on a shoe. We unravel the mystery of why so many of us have let someone else dictate our creativity, and trust me, it's time to take that word "artist" back! We'll chat about the wild journey of reclaiming your artistic identity, including the struggles and triumphs that come with it. So grab your paintbrush, your notebook, or whatever your creative weapon of choice is, and let’s remind ourselves that being an artist is about creating for the joy of it—no sales necessary! At some point, many people stop calling themselves artists — not because they stopped creating, but because someone else told them they weren’t one. In this episode, we explore the quiet moments that cause people to abandon their creative identity and how those messages follow us into adulthood. This episode is for: People who were discouraged from pursuing art early on Adults with careers and families who still feel the pull to create Anyone who’s been told art is impractical, unrealistic, or “not for them”
We talk about: The moment creative identity gets taken away Why adults feel they need permission to create How talent myths keep people stuck Reclaiming the word artist without needing validation
1. The Moment the Word “Artist” Was Taken Away How a single comment or experience can outweigh years of creativity Why these moments often feel small but leave a lasting impact How silence or indifference can be just as powerful as criticism
2. The Stories We Carry Into Adulthood How early messages about talent and practicality get internalized Why adults stop claiming the word artist even when they still create The difference between losing interest and losing permission
3. Talent Myths and Creative Gatekeeping The belief that artists are “born, not made” How comparison and early labels shut down experimentation Why skill development is mistaken for proof of worth
4. Identity vs. Output Why making art doesn’t automatically feel like being an artist How waiting for validation delays creative identity Why claiming the identity comes before results, not after
5. Quiet Reclamation Taking the word artist back without announcements or pressure Letting art exist privately before it’s shared or judged Choosing not to argue with the voice that says “you’re not that”
Takeaways: At some point, someone told you that you weren't an artist, but let's be real: who are they to decide that for you? The simple act of creating something makes you an artist, regardless of whether or not you sell it. It's crucial to reclaim the title of 'artist' for yourself despite what naysayers might think, so just go for it! Every artist experiences silence and crickets, but that doesn't define your worth or your artistic journey. Your identity as an artist isn't solely based on your output; it's about the passion and creativity you bring to the table. You don't need anyone's permission to create; just dive in and let your artistic voice shine through!
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