The Myth of the Natural Talent
"If I had to guess, the 'myth' of natural talent is the number one reason people never give painting a serious try. We often pick up a brush for the first time, realize it doesn't come easily, and immediately assume we just don't 'have it.'
But we rarely see what actually goes into the making of a master. We don't see the years of failed paintings, the rejections, or the quiet moments of self-doubt. Most artists go out of their way to hide the 'messy' parts of their journey to protect their image. All we see is the polished end product: a master who seems to effortlessly fill a canvas with life.
As Michelangelo once said: 'If people knew how hard I worked to get my mastery, it wouldn't seem so wonderful at all.'"
The Last Judgement by Michelangelo
Your Journey Starts Now
"The truth is, talent is rarely evident in the beginning. Some start fast and fade; others are slow starters who pick up steam over the years. As the late Richard Schmid wrote in Alla Prima II: 'Don't bother about whether or not you have it. Just assume you do, and then please forget about it.'
Painting is a challenge, I assure you, but you are absolutely capable of learning it. You’ll only discover what you’re truly capable of if you give it a 'red-hot crack.' Trust the process, embrace the messy middle, and just keep painting."
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