How to overcome the ugly stage in your art process: tips and tricks

Hey there, my artistic amigos!

As an artist, I know that the beginning stages of any piece can be rough. It's the time when my vision is still taking shape and my execution isn't quite up to par. I call this phase the "ugly stage" of art, and it can be a real challenge to overcome. But over the years, I've learned a few tricks to help me move past this awkward phase and create art that I'm proud of.

Now Let's talk about this dreaded "ugly stage" of art.

That dreaded time when your masterpiece looks more like a disasterpiece. The stage where you wonder if you've made a terrible mistake and contemplate giving up art altogether.

Trust me, I've been there, and it's not a fun place to be.

And let's be clear, this ugly stage can hit you at any point in the process, whether you're just starting out or almost finished. This stage' is a familiar enemy for many artists out there. It's like a lurking monster that can jump at you at any point during your creative process .

You need to know, it's totally normal to feel frustrated when your piece suddenly looks like a hot mess. The thing is, this stage can hit you in the middle of your work or even closer to the end, and it can vary from one piece to another depending on the artist's style and approach. So, don't worry if it happens to you, because you're not alone.

The good news is, there are ways to overcome it and turn that hot mess into a masterpiece.

Let's dive into some tips and tricks that have helped me tackle this stage and come out on the other side with a smile on the face.

1. Keep Going

First and foremost, it's important to keep going. When you're in the early stages of a piece, it's easy to get discouraged and want to give up. But remember, every masterpiece starts with a rough sketch or a blank canvas. One of the most important things you can do when you hit the "ugly stage" is to keep going. Don't give up, don't throw in the towel. Every artist, no matter how skilled, goes through this stage, and the only way to get past it is to push through. It can be frustrating, but try to see it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an artist.

2. Take Break and Walk Away

It's also important to take breaks when you're feeling stuck. Sometimes stepping away from a piece for a few hours or even a few days can give you the perspective you need to move past the “ugly stage.”

When you're knee-deep in the "ugly stage" and every brushstroke seems to make your painting worse, take a break and walk away. Sometimes you just need to step back, take a deep breath, and give your brain a little rest. Maybe you need to stretch your legs, take a walk outisde or even dance to your favorite song for a few minutes.

Whatever it is, do something that helps you disconnect from your work and clear your head. It might seem counter intuitive, but trust me, it can work wonders. When you come back to your painting with fresh eyes and a fresh mind, you might notice things you didn't see before or find new inspiration to tackle that ugly stage. So don't be afraid to take that break, and keep in mind that you're not alone in this.

3. Experiment

Don't be afraid to experiment during the early stages of your art. Try out different techniques and styles, and see what works best for you. The "ugly stage" is the perfect time to take risks and see where your creativity takes you. Who knows, you may stumble upon a new approach that you absolutely love.

Experimenting is also key to finding your artistic style and voice. Don't be afraid to try something new, even if it seems unconventional or risky. The 'ugly stage' can be the perfect opportunity to take those risks and explore different techniques and materials. Play around with colors, textures, and composition. Try using different tools or mediums. Allow yourself to make mistakes and learn from them.

One great way to experiment is by studying the work of other artists. Take a look at their techniques and see if you can incorporate some of them into your own work. Don't be afraid to try something completely out of your comfort zone. It could be just what you need to push your art to the next level.

4. Ask for Feedback

Another helpful strategy is to ask for feedback from others. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can provide valuable insight and help you see your art in a new light. Reach out to fellow artists, friends, or family members and ask for their honest opinions.

The Feedback - can be both a blessing and a curse. But when it comes to overcoming the 'ugly stage' of art, it can be an incredibly useful tool. Getting another perspective on your work can help you identify areas that may need improvement, or even give you a fresh idea to take your art to the next level.

Don't be afraid to seek feedback from people who you trust and respect, whether they're other artists or just friends and family who appreciate art.

5. Don't Be Too Hard on Yourself

So, when you find yourself in the middle of this messy, chaotic phase, take a deep breath and be kind to yourself. Don't beat yourself up over a few bumps in the road. Instead, embrace the process and remember that every step you take is leading you closer to your end goal.

It's okay if things don't turn out exactly as you'd hoped. The beauty of art is that it's subjective and open to interpretation. So, don't be too hard on yourself if your piece doesn't look like a masterpiece just yet. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a work of art.

It's important to be kind to yourself during the "ugly stage" of art. Do not forget that everyone goes through this phase, and it doesn't mean you're a bad artist. Be patient with yourself, and don't be too hard on yourself if things don't turn out exactly as you'd hoped. The journey is just as important as the destination, and every piece of art you create is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Final Thoughts

Well, folks, the "ugly stage" of art can be a frustrating and challenging time, but it's also an important part of the artistic process. By keeping these tips in mind and staying committed to your vision, you can move past this phase and create art that you're truly proud of. Keep pushing forward, stay positive, and don't forget to have a little fun in the process. After all, art is all about self-expression and creativity. So, let your imagination run wild and see where it takes you.

And don't be shy - share your own tips, tricks, and hilarious mishaps in the comments below.

Let's build a community of artists who can support each other through the good, the bad, and the downright ugly stages of creating art. After all, we're all in this together!

If you're looking to expand your knowledge beyond the creative process, be sure to check out some of my other blog articles on art marketing and contemporary art insights.

You never know what valuable information you may discover to help take your art career to the next level.