Trends vs. You - How to Stay Authentic

 

 

Ever find yourself scrolling through Instagram, feeling like everyone else is rocking the latest trends while you’re still trying to figure out your unique style? Yeah, I’ve been there, too, guys. 🙃

 

“Always be a unicorn in a field of horses.” It’s a funny little quote, but it hits the nail on the head. It's easy to get sucked into trends, thinking that's the only way to get noticed.

 

Well, trends come and go, but your unique style is what will truly make people stop and take notice. Dr. Seuss captured it perfectly when he said, “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” Our quirks and individual styles are what make us memorable.

 

 

 

Who is Dr. Seuss?

 

Who the heck is Dr. Seuss, you ask? Oh, just the guy who wrote some of the most whimsical and beloved children's books ever! You know, "The Cat in the Hat," "Green Eggs and Ham," and all those tongue-twisting rhymes that are super fun to read out loud.

 

Dr. Seuss, whose real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel, was a writer and illustrator. He had this amazing knack for creating quirky characters and memorable quotes that make you think and laugh at the same time. So, when he says something about standing out, you know it’s worth listening to!

 

When I first started out as an artist, I was all over the place, trying to mimic artists or trending styles I saw online and admired.

But as Einstein put it, “Be a voice, not an echo.” I realized that copying others was snuffing out my creativity. It took a little while, but I learned that being myself was not only more fulfilling but also what drew people to my work.

 

So, today, I want to discuss something very important - staying true to your artistic voice in a constantly changing world.

 

 

 

 

 

WHY AUTHENTICITY MATTERS

 

Being authentic means being true to yourself and your unique style. But why does this matter so much?

 

 

PERSONAL CONNECTION 

 

When you create art that's true to your personal style, it reflects your personality, experiences, and emotions.

This personal touch can make your art more relatable and engaging for your audience.

 

A study by the Journal of Consumer Research points out that authenticity is highly valued by audiences and can lead to stronger connections and loyalty (Leigh et al., 2006).

 

Think about how you feel when you see art that speaks to you on a personal level. It resonates deeply, creating a special feeling that's hard to break. That’s the magic of authenticity – it makes experiences more meaningful and memorable.

 

When something feels genuine, it catches your eye and touches your heart. This emotional connection is what builds lasting relationships and keeps you coming back for more.

 

When you put a piece of yourself into your work, it stands out. It’s like your art is having a conversation with the viewer, sharing your unique story. This creates a deeper connection because people can sense the genuine effort and emotion behind each artwork.

 

Have you ever looked at a painting and felt like it was telling you a story? That’s what happens when art is infused with personal touch.

 

Your audience isn't just buying a piece of art -  THEY’RE BUYING A PIECE OF YOU.

They appreciate the authenticity and can often relate to the emotions and experiences you portray. This connection makes them more likely to become loyal fans and even support your work.

 

So, don’t shy away from expressing your true self in your creations.

Accept your quirks and unique perspective because these personal touches make your art stand out in a busy market and create strong connections with your audience.

 

 

  

LONGEVITY AND RECOGNITION 

 

Staying true to your own unique style can really help you build a brand that stands out.

When folks see your art, they should be able to say, "Wow, that's definitely by Sparkle McDoodle."  😜  Well, it is just a  funny name to give you an example!

But think about how this kind of recognition can open up so many doors, like commissions and collaborations.

 

Think about how Van Gogh and Picasso aren't just famous for their talent but also for their distinct, unforgettable styles. Van Gogh painted his heart out, and now our hearts are forever painted with his starry nights and sunflower dreams. 

 

And Picasso painted with the curiosity of a child and the skill of a master, turning the ordinary into extraordinary shapes and colors.Isn’t that just the sweetest thing? Imagine having the wonder of a kid and the talent of a genius. Picasso made art feel like a playful adventure, reminding us that creativity has no rules.

 

Building a recognizable style is about creating a signature that people remember, guys! It’s like your unique fingerprint in the art world.

 

When someone recognizes your style, it can open doors to various possibilities. Galleries might seek you out because your work is distinctive and memorable. Collectors might become repeat buyers because they love your unique approach.

 

Moreover, having a consistent style helps in building your brand. It’s similar to how you recognize a brand by its logo or color scheme. Your style becomes your artistic brand identity, making you easily identifiable in a sea of artists. 

 

 

 

ENJOYMENT AND FULFILLMENT 

 

Creating art that reflects who you truly are is incredibly fulfilling.

Instead of constantly chasing the latest trends, you can focus on what you genuinely love and what makes you happy. This brings joy and helps prevent burnout, keeping your passion for art alive. Waking up excited to start your next piece and seeing it completed is immensely satisfying. This authenticity brings you enjoyment and will also attract people who appreciate and resonate with your unique style.

 

The art world is vast and varied, and there's room for every kind of expression. By staying true to yourself, you're not just creating art; you're sharing a piece of your soul with the world.

 

 

 

TIPS FOR STAYING AUTHENTIC 

 

#1. Reflect Regularly

Take time to think about your work and make sure it matches your artistic vision. Ask yourself why you create and what message you want to convey. This self-awareness helps you stay true to your unique style. Make it a habit to review your progress and adjust if needed.

 

#2. Document Your Process

Keep a sketchbook or journal to note down your thoughts and ideas. This can be a great way to track your growth and see how your style evolves. Looking back at your sketches and notes can spark new ideas and remind you of your artistic journey.

 

#3. Seek Feedback 

Share your work with trusted friends for honest feedback. It can highlight what’s working and what isn’t, allowing you to make adjustments. Moreover, discussing your work with others can spark new ideas and perspectives.

 

Constructive criticism can help you see your work from a different perspective and improve. Just remember to take feedback as a tool for growth, not as a personal attack, and stay confident in your vision.

 

 

 

 

 

UNDERSTANDING TRENDS WITHOUT LOSING YOURSELF 

 

Trends can be exciting and offer fresh inspiration, but they can also be overwhelming. Here’s how to stay current without losing your unique style.

 

 

 

STAY INFORMED, NOT OVERWHELMED

 

Trends in the art world can be like a wild ride, constantly changing and growing. Follow art blogs, magazines, and social media accounts to keep up without losing your unique style.

Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are treasure troves of current trends. But here’s the catch – you don’t have to jump on every trend. Pick and choose what resonates with you and fits your style.

 

Staying informed doesn’t mean you have to abandon your originality. Think of trends as a buffet – take what you like and leave the rest.

 

It's really important to stay true to yourself and keep in mind that your unique perspective is what makes your art special.

Overwhelming yourself with too many trends can dilute your personal style and leave you feeling lost. A study I read in the Journal of Creative Behavior found that balancing trend-following and personal creativity can lead to greater artistic satisfaction (Runco & Jaeger, 2012).

 

 

 

REFLECT ON YOUR CORE STYLE 

 

Take a moment to reflect on what makes your art uniquely yours.

Is it your color palette, your subject matter, or maybe your technique?

Write down the elements that define your style and keep them in mind when exploring new trends. This self-awareness will help you blend trends without losing your essence.

 

It's not about copying others but about adding fresh ideas to your work.

For example, if your art is known for its vibrant colors, look at current color trends and see how they might fit into your palette without changing your core style.

A study in the Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts found that artists who know their unique elements can better adapt trends to their advantage without losing their identity (Silvia, 2015).

 

 

 

EXPERIMENT WITH SMALL CHANGES

 

Experimentation is a great way to stay fresh without straying too far from your roots.

Try incorporating a trendy element in a small part of your work.

For example, if geometric shapes are popular, add a few to your background or as accents - so you can test if it fits with your style without committing to a complete overhaul. 

 

Experimenting is a fun and low-pressure way to mix in trends. If it doesn’t work out, no big deal – you tried something new and learned from it. This approach keeps your art dynamic and evolving. You know, this process of trial and error is a valuable part of the creative journey, fostering growth and new ideas.

 

 

 

ANALYZE AND ADAPT 

 

When you come across a trend that catches your eye, ask yourself why you like it. Is it the color palette, the technique, or the theme? Use these elements as inspiration and incorporate them into your work in a way that feels natural. For example, if you love the current trend of pastel colors, try using pastel hues in a way that complements your existing style.

 

Art is a dynamic field, and flexibility is vital. So, allow yourself the freedom to evolve and adapt. If a trend genuinely resonates with you and enhances your work, don’t be afraid to incorporate it. Flexibility doesn’t mean abandoning your style; it means being open to growth and new influences.

 

Being flexible allows you to stay relevant in the art world while still maintaining your identity.

Think of your style as a tree – the roots are your core elements, and the branches are the trends you explore. Both are necessary for growth. A report in the International Journal of Arts Management showed that artists who stay adaptable and open to change often achieve greater long-term success (Throsby, 2001).

  

 

 

 

 

 

TIPS FOR BALANCING TRENDS 

 

#1. Selectively Follow Trends

Not every trend will suit your style, and that's okay. Choose trends that genuinely resonate with you and can be integrated into your work naturally. This way, you stay current without losing your unique voice.

 

#2. Experiment

Use trends as a playground for experimentation. Try new techniques or styles inspired by trends to see what fits. Remember, it's about exploring and having fun, not completely changing your style.

 

#3. Stay Grounded

Regularly reflect on your work to ensure it fits with your artistic vision. Take time to think about why you create and what message you want to convey. This helps you stay true to yourself while still being open to new influences.

 

 

 

THE LONG-TERM  BENEFITS OF STAYING AUTHENTIC

   

Staying true to your style has long-term benefits that far outweigh the temporary appeal of following trends.

And here, I will introduce some of those that play an important role in your art journey. 

 

 

BUILDING A STRONG BRAND  

 

When you consistently create authentic work, you build a strong personal brand.

Your art becomes recognizable, and people start to associate certain qualities with your work. This can lead to a loyal following and more opportunities.

 

Think about famous artists like Salvador Dalí. His surrealist style was so unique that it's instantly recognizable. This strong branding not only made his work stand out but also opened doors to numerous exhibitions and collaborations. 

 

 

 

INFLUENCING FUTURE GENERATIONS

 

By staying authentic, you’re building a legacy.

Your unique voice can influence and inspire future generations of artists. Think about Frida Kahlo. Her deeply personal and unique style, rooted in her Mexican heritage and personal experiences, has made her a lasting icon. Even though she didn’t fit into the mainstream art trends of her time, her work continues to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide (Tibol, R. 1993). 

 

Frida Kahlo's art is incredibly personal and emotional. She often painted self-portraits that showed her pain, both physical and emotional. This raw honesty and authenticity are what make her work so powerful and relatable. Kahlo's style was deeply influenced by Mexican folk art, with its vivid colors and symbolic elements, which she mixed with surrealism. Her paintings were a way for her to process her own experiences and connect with others on a deeply emotional level.

 

Kahlo's legacy is seen in the countless artists who draw inspiration from her courage to express her true self, regardless of whether it fit into contemporary art trends. Her work encourages artists to share their personal stories and cultural backgrounds. This has opened doors for many artists to explore and show their heritage, making the art world more diverse and welcoming.

 

For example, her influence can be seen in the works of contemporary artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Kara Walker, who also use their art to explore personal and cultural identity. By staying true to herself, Frida Kahlo created a lasting impact that goes beyond her lifetime, proving that authenticity in art connects deeply with people.

 

Staying authentic also means that your work will last over time.

Trends come and go, but genuine expression has a timeless quality.

Kahlo's paintings continue to be celebrated in exhibitions worldwide, and her life has been the subject of numerous books and films. This ongoing importance shows that art created from the heart can stay influential for generations. Her story is a testament to the power of authenticity in art. She didn't conform to the norms of her time, and in doing so, she paved the way for future generations of artists to do the same. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who see themselves reflected in her work.

So, keep in mind that your journey and experiences are what make your art special. 

 

 

 

 

TIPS FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS

  

#1. Build Your Brand

Consistently create authentic work to build a strong personal brand. Think about what makes your art unique and emphasize those elements. Over time, your style will become synonymous with your name, just like how Picasso's name is linked with cubism.

 

 

#2. Stay Motivated

Create art that genuinely reflects who you are to prevent burnout. When your art is a true reflection of your inner self, it’s easier to stay passionate and motivated. It's okay if not everyone gets it right away. You're in it for the long haul. 

 

 

#3. Inspire Others

Keep in mind that your unique voice can influence and inspire future generations. Every piece of authentic art you create adds to your legacy. Share your story and your journey. It might just be the inspiration someone else needs to pursue their own path. Keep being you, because no one else can do it better. 

Staying authentic in your art is more than just a choice; it's a strategy for long-term success. 

 

 

A Quick Note 😍

Just a quick note before you go – If you're curious to know more about the world of contemporary art, feel free to explore my other posts for more insights and discoveries.

They’re full of interesting tidbits and valuable tips that you might enjoy.

 

 

 

   

    

References:

(Leigh, T.W., Peters, C. and Shelton, J. (2006). "The Consumer Quest for Authenticity: The Multiplicity of Meanings Within the MG Subculture of Consumption," Journal of Consumer Research, 32(2), 401-412).

(Runco, M. A. and Jaeger, G. J. (2012). "The Standard Definition of Creativity," Journal of Creative Behavior, 46(2), 92-105.)

(Silvia, P. J. (2015). "Self-reflective Individualism and Artistic Creativity," Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, 9(1), 51-59.)

(Throsby, D. (2001). "Economics and Culture," Cambridge University Press, ISBN: 9780521586399.)

(Davis, M. (2013). "The Role of Feedback in Artistic Development," Journal of Visual Arts Practice, 12(1), 45-60.)

 (Tibol, R. (1993). "Frida Kahlo: An Open Life," University of New Mexico Press, ISBN: 9780826313831).