We’ll never master art (and that’s a good thing!)

I’ve realized something these past few days.

It’s something I’ve known for a long time, but once in a while, I’m reminded of it and I feel like I’m discovering a new concept all over again.

But before I tell what it is, let me tell you a story:

Lately, I’ve been crafting a new course that’ll help artists create stunning paintings. I’m super excited about it and I can’t wait to announce it! So I’ve been working on outlining it, scripting it, and making sure I explain everything the easiest way and the best way I can.

As I explain concepts, make demonstrations, and think of possible questions my students might have, I’m confronted with the obvious: art is such a complex topic. And I don’t think I’ll ever know everything there is to know about it.

As I teach art, I also learn. Every time I’m asked a question, my brain needs to find new and better ways to explain it. 

And I can’t help but think of how art is a never-ending journey.

I’ll never know all about art. I’ll never feel like I’m an art god. 

I’ll never be 100% satisfied with everything I create. And… you probably won’t, either.

But here’s the part I hope sinks in:

That’s not bad news.

In fact, it’s something to celebrate.

Think about it: how amazing is it that you’ll always have new skills to discover and new ways to grow? Each painting that’s 5% better than your last is proof you’re evolving. Every mistake is a stepping stone.

Instead of beating yourself up, what if you focused on your growth?

Our eternal search for the “perfect painting” or the “ideal art style”—that’s what gives art meaning. If you ever reached that mythical finish line… would creating still feel exciting?

This reminds me of Saitama, from One Punch Man. He’s the ultimate hero who can defeat any villain with a single punch. But instead of feeling proud, he feels empty. He has nothing left to strive for.

If we “mastered” art completely, wouldn’t we feel the same?

Now, I don’t mean we should make mediocre art or accept our frustrating art style without trying to change it. Quite the opposite: I’m talking about accepting the frustration you feel, taking a deep breath, and reminding yourself that it’s a never-ending journey.

And then doing your best to improve, to learn new concepts, and to apply them to your own artwork and art style.

Not out of a sense of obligation or dread, but feeling blessed that you’re free to experiment and create.

I’m writing this in hope that you can see art under a different lens: one of positivity and bliss. As I write, I’m also reminding myself of it and trying to drill it into my soul. I also hate my art sometimes and feel like it’s not fast enough, good enough, or beautiful enough. But this train of thought doesn’t serve us at all, does it?

Remember when you were a kid and you discovered something new, and you were filled with wonder. We need to recover that feeling, and tap into it for our art. 

Yes, our art is imperfect…

Yes, there’s a lot to learn…

Yes, we’ll never stop learning art…

And that’s the beauty of it!

Keep creating. The world needs your art.

Wishing you a beautiful week <3

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Love, 

Bruna Belfort