The Beauty of Mistakes
“Go and make interesting mistakes, make amazing mistakes, make glorious and fantastic mistakes. Break rules. Leave the world more interesting for your being here.” ~Neil Gaiman
In last month’s blog, “Every Little Thing is Going to be Alright", I wrote about the power of making mistakes in art. I found it to be such an important topic, that further exploration in this area was needed. I wanted to delve into the beauty of making mistakes. For me, it might be my stubborn nature – or if we want to reframe it, my persistence, but mistakes and setbacks only fuels my drive and determination. So, what lessons have I learned and what are the benefits and beauty in making mistakes in art ... and in life?
Perfection Does Not Exist
As much as I am a perfectionist which often fuels my motivation, there are downsides to being that way. It creates undo stress and often unattainable goals. What makes a work of art perfect? What one viewer may see as the most incredible piece ever, someone else with differing taste may not see the appeal at all! Rather than strive for perfectionism, strive to do the best you can or be the best current version of yourself. The standards are still high, but the outcome is achievable.
Imperfections are Interesting
Next time you view an artwork look at it from a different lens. Is there something that seems unique or does not quite flow with the overall piece? Does it take away from the work or add an element of interest and unexpected beauty? It is no different with people we value – we see their quirks as unique and part of who they are. See the beauty in this!
Mistakes Lead to Growth
I always used to tell my students if you learn something the first time you learn one thing. If it takes you three attempts before you attain your goal, you have learned three things. We are meant to be challenged. It is only through errors and challenges that we can grow. As an artist, experimentation is part of the process. As humans, carry this approach over to others and do not be so f*cking judgmental!
Mistakes Help to Address Our Fears
Often, we fear mistakes because we worry how others will judge us. That is the insecurity that resides in all of us. The truth is most people do not give a shit. We are so worried about what others are thinking, but most of the time they are not even paying attention to us, as they are focused on their own life. The only way to tackle a fear is to take it on. The more mistakes you make the more confidence you just may build.
Helps with Skill Development
The only way one can improve is to practice. I love using the analogy of athletes. Why do some of the most skilled athletes flame out, while others who do not have the natural talent make it? Hard work, lots of dedication, persistence and practice. It is no different as an artist or in life. All of the iconic artists started somewhere and had to hone their skills. If you have a passion, work at it and continue to get better.
It Allows for Connectivity
I have found that deep connections come from authenticity and vulnerability. Why do certain songs and artworks resonate with certain people? The message or emotion conveyed. In this day and age of social media, everyone wants their fifteen minutes of fame. For many, posts are nothing more than bullshit false realities, created by those craving attention. I am not interested in someone’s fictitious life. I am drawn to real people, with real stories. Art is no different – the imperfections in an artwork is what allows people to connect, to see the rawness in a person. Carry this over to a conversation with someone – look for the commonalities, not the differences.
The Beauty of Mistakes
It is universally acknowledged that all humans make mistakes. As part of the human condition, we stumble, fall, and blunder. Despite being compassionate to others about making mistakes, we often feel privately ashamed of our own errors. We secretly believe we can achieve perfection in all aspects of our lives, leading us to view each mistake as a hindrance to becoming our ideal selves. Therefore, ambitious individuals tend to fear being wrong. Instead why not take the viewpoint of the happy accident and I do not mean the condom breaking. Rather the idea that “something unexpectedly good comes from what would otherwise be considered a mishap.” When we begin to reframe our perspective, we can begin to see how mistakes are beautiful and empowering.
If nothing else, I hope that you remember that mistakes are inevitable and is a universal part of the human experience. Accept and take ownership for the mistake, grow from it and move forward. Attitude is everything in this instance. Instead of feeling shame or looking to blame, try approaching things from a new perspective. Think of a mistake or even a setback as a positive challenge, an opportunity for learning, a chance to grow or even an opportunity to be creative. Humour, humility, curiosity and compassion will allow you to see the beauty in the experience.
In looking back at a younger version of you, is there a memory which at the time was a huge mistake, but which is now a beautiful experience? Please feel free to share your beautiful mistakes or lessons learned from failure. These are all character building experiences. I look forward to sharing more of my art journey with you, with a focus on painting and rock and roll through Artist Confidential. If you have topics, you would like me to blog about, please feel free to contact me. I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas.
Thanks for reading. Stay creative! Rock your day with everything that you do and be open to experiencing failure and approaching a mistake with a new mindset. It may just lead to a new learning or a beautiful experience.
Cheers,
Al
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