Yes. Amd while you will be at it, who will pay your bills and make money or give yiu some even for bloody paper? Don't look at well know quotes look, at the logic and reality of life!
The reality is im 15 and im being fed without doing anything and got 3 more years of that, so i will look at this quote and stay consistent enough to be better than before@@xxy4093
@xxy4093 lol ypu can still draw a lot and have a regular job A lot of people do this. In school I made sure to have paper at all times not for work but to draw to the point I had to borrow paper because I didn't have enough. Of course as ypu getnolder it gets harder. But that's why most always has something on them to sketch on. It's like if you really love reading or watching movies. You'll find the time to do it.
If you're not enjoying drawing, consider the posibility that maybe right now life just kinda sucks at the moment? At least that was true for me when I decided to stop drawing, three/four years later I started scribbling while waiting for Maya to do its rendering thing, and wondered why did I ever stop drawing, and the simple honest answer was that when you're depressed, not a whole lot of things are fun, it was a joyous occasion to disovered that I actually did love drawing. I guess my point is that it might not be YOUR fault you dont like drawing, it might just be that life at the moment kinda sucks.
I know for me it’s hard knowing that something is better and I’m supposed to be doing it and if I don’t no one is going to like it. People tell me all the time that it doesn’t matter but if it doesn’t, why do a lot of artist sell out or do a particular thing a certain way? I don’t want to sell my art anymore but I’m in college and school breaks me down and rips me apart and I just don’t want to do it anymore but I really don’t want to stop, I just want to be happy.😔
this comment is the most important one, because with good videos like this one and many others I often just felt guilty and scared... of not loving it enough "oh i don't draw as much as it was said in this video, I go for days without drawing nowadays... that means I don't love art? BUT I LOVE ART, but this means I don't!?" just a freakish mess.
While I definitely agree with the sentiment, this still falls into the cold hard truth that it probably means you're not quite cut out to be a professional in this field. There's nothing wrong with that though, I feel people who do genuinely enjoy creating art as a fun hobby tend to feel like if there's no monetary goal at the end of the tunnel then they should feel bad, get depressed about it and stop. But as an aspiring professional you have to be able to pull yourself out of the funks and moods and depression if you wanna get paid. That too is a skill just like anything else talked about here and a million other places.
@@fromash5289 Errr.. I know loads of people including myself who used to be just in this position and now are working professionals. The idea that just because you didnt use to be cut out for professional work in the art field doesnt mean that will continue to be the case. Like you said its a skill, and if its a skill it can be developed. Its also an asinine comment because depending on the circumstances of your living situation you are more prone to neuroticism, its a biological truth that if you have a lot of uncertainty and unstable parts of life that your seratonin doesnt dampen your negative emotions as much.
Dammmn the “I will draw circles around you” at the end was both playful and challenging. A determined smile cracked on my face after hearing that. I joyfully accept this challenge.
"The more skilled they become, the clearer the need for more than just skill" is a beautiful way of describing the Dunning-Kruger effect, which is a simple human trait.
@@freckleheckler6311 ...the simple definition from google for the Dunning-Kruger effect is: "The Dunning-Kruger effect effect occurs when a person's lack of knowledge and skills in a certain area cause them to overestimate their own competence." So, as you learn more, you realize there is more that you need to know/learn.
LOL that ending - challenge accepted. Great video man. That was some high tier speaking, no living man I know can put forth such prose and paint a freakish hero narrative in the minds of listeners the way you do. Also your mention of Michael had me smilin'! Miss that fella.
Man, the ending felt like a strong pat in the ass before entering the field. Strong enough to make you jump, encouraging enough to get you on your feet and alert.
So being freaky weird and having fun is the KEY... I feel enlightened by this awesome man. Thank you for reassuring the path of us passionate artists. I hope everyone finds joy and comfort in art too. And yes, lets all “draw so much that people worry about you”! What are you doing reading this comment. GO DRAW YOU SWEET PERSON!!!
I’ve never been both inspired and discouraged by one video lol. Guess I’ll keep drawing anyway lol. Thanks for taking the time to talk about this Steven, it means a lot and your words are always welcome!
I'm really glad I found your channel. I dropped out of art school in 2019, in part of health reasons and in part because our teachers were....I don't know how to phrase it...difficult I guess. They always said they wanted us to make our own stuff and develop our own style. But in reality, whenever you experimented or tried something new, it was discouraged because it wasn't palatable for the industry. One teacher even only wanted us to draw exactly like him and copy his style one to one, giving out bad grades if your art wasn't to his personal taste. And it made me hate drawing so much for at least 2 years afterwards to the point I stopped drawing completely and seriously wanted to give up on it. It took time and therapy until I could at least decide to only draw for myself and be "selfish" with my art again. And last week I watched your video on flow and it honestly felt like the curse broke, so to speak. It was like the last missing puzzle piece I needed. Even when I hated drawing, deep down I couldn't give it up. I still wanted to visualize my ideas and get back that feeling of flow and relaxation I felt before. It was just, that whenever I put the pencil to paper, I saw that one art teacher in my mind, tearing everything apart. I can't thank you enough for your videos, I finally got back what I lost in art school.
I am honored to have been of such service to you. I was not actually sure that flow video could help anyone when I made it, but every time I read something like this it reminds me that much more is possible in the realm of art than we tend to believe.
Pedagogy. A term describing the ART of learning. I do magic tricks, play guitar and drum, beatbox, draw, paint, animate, skateboard, and craft miniature dioramas. I never would have learned any of it without learning to draw first. It doesn't matter how old you are or how young you are. It's always the right time to learn how to learn.
I have arguments with my wife about art but it’s about sharing it. I’m currently a hermit doodler and itch if I’m not sketching. She sneaks into my sketch book every now and then and snags a picture to share. I get irritated but I know she does it out of love.
That’s a very intelligent thing to say. There’s a lot of brilliant artists out there. But the people who make money aren’t necessarily part of that group. Case in point, Rob Leifield.
Oh my god, I'm so happy someone talked about this. I totally relate to this. I did the whole taking all the art classes at community college, and then going to an art school in Paris and graduating with a bachelors in illustration. And now I'm living in Hong Kong, I've been part of 3 group shows, had a solo show, but I feel like right now I've just stagnated. Art is no longer a real joy, it feels more like a chore or something I put off. I feel guilty for wasting paper, for splashing paint around, because it feels like I need to sell sell, or to attract more followers, there's so little joy left in what I do. And yet sometimes I do find joy, but it is so very quickly extinguished by the reality that I don't care enough about my own work, so why should anyone else. I hope I get out of this rut.
There isn't really anything in this life that I enjoy. My depression has eaten all of me. However, I value art. It's the only vocation I can find meaning in, despite the fact that I rarely find joy in it these days. I suppose I'm not cut out to be an artist, but since I don't care for anything else, I must be one of those who simply die trying.
"What is this joy? Can anyone describe it to me? I've never seen it." - That's what my comment was going to be, but I see someone's beat me to it. You're not the only one, Jordan. Wonder how we'll fare going forward. Wish you well though!
@@neron8497 I hope it works out better for you. As long as you overcome depression, the joy should present itself. Almost everyone can respond to adequate treatment, so I have faith in your outcome.
Geez, this is so relatable! When I got this job as a coloring book artist, I was the happiest person on earth. I thought "wow, I finally got my dream job!" Never thought I could get drained doing it. There are times when I feel like I'm about to cry just because I need to hit the deadline and I still couldn't force myself to come up with new ideas. Deadlines suck. I realized it's different doing art as a hobby versus doing it as a job.
As a professional artist watching your video while I'm doing my own work, I almost broke down in to tears when you said "a professional will not be ultimately deterred". Having always struggled with trying to prove I'm good enough, even when at my job, always thinking there'll be that moment my co-workers find out I'm a sham, I think after these 17 years of practicing on and off and struggling, your words gave me peace of heart and mind. You've clearly thought about these ideas thoroughly hence I admire your articulation And yeah for that last part.. ha... bring it on friend. Always a fan of drawing duels
“This entire channel is my sketch book. In my actual work, I will draw circles around you.” This has ignited a flame within me like no oil has before! Godspeed my friend! Thank you for this advice!
i was just drawing while listening to this and when i was about to change the video till i heard oh your still here and just add as much sarcastic humour. it was pure gold.
I listened to this video of yours while drawing and I think all my frustration vanished for the time being, it felt so good. Recently blinded by my frustrations I made a bad post on the internet where I blamed the world for my mistakes, and you know how is people on the internet, they jumped at me which is understandable of course and I deserved that to snap back to reality. I'm really trying to make some awesome stuff which is good to look at, which will make me feel simply good. I think I'm on the right track just need to be more focused and not letting these frustrations get the better of me. When I'm listening to your videos I'm constantly thinking. Today I realized sometimes I need to give myself more time, it's not a race or anything like that, don't need to rush it just progress in your own tempo or something like that. Anyway thanks, I needed this.
That was an interesting video.. I'm 25, so i'm not that young that i can change paths willy nilly without some consequences.. before art I went to physics university, gave up, then medicine, gave up, all the while i was teetering the edge of giving up on life altogether and just ending it. I I found some kind of passion about drawing at the same time i managed to get help and stabilize my mental health about 3 years ago, and I've been on the path to professional illustration for about 2 years now. Sometimes drawing feels like a muse, other times it feels like a demon, though i wonder if it's truly art thats making me feel this or that or if its just life, and drawing is just there taking the credit or blame. And the more this goes on I start to believe this really is just about life. I've seen lawyers end marriages because they work too much, i've seen engineers tie their self worth to their job. I've seen mathmaticians be absolutely elated about analysing a god damn chart with a bunch of numbers in it. I've seen doctors on the verge of suicide despite finding the utmost meaning in what they do. You can change any example you gave about art in your video to most carreers and it would still hold up, because this isn't about art, this is about life. Maybe we can effortlessly and joyfully go ahead full blast for a while, living the height of our ideals, but often we give all we have just not to drown. This is just regular humanhood. This isn't some punishment for choosing art y'all, this is life everywhere. When life gets tough, every carreer is a fking dark souls boss. If you only have art and you don't love it, maybe take it out of art's shoulders the burden of providing you most of the meaning you need in your life. And maybe paradoxically that might help you find more joy in it as well, and work harder on it. It wont do to blame your current path for our struggles, we would still have them anywhere else. I say this because to me this is a huge relief, I can't force the art world to be kinder to my struggles, but I can work on how i perceive them. If this video was titled ''how to be a professional'' and ommited the art part, it would still hold up just fine.
I still remember how much i enjoyed drawing when i was was at highschool. I am trying to improve now years later but somehow i lost this joy and drawing became insufferable and painful over time as i became too critical and judgmental of myself. I am going to try to find this joy again, thanks for the video. Also this ending is kinda scary ngl
The thing that always scares me into committing to art is that I feel I need to be more than an artist to be good at art. Like, I need to have lived more before I know how to convey anything meaningful, but I don't really know how to live either.
"I will draw circles around you" that was sooo fucking bad ass!! I think you are spot on Steven, I wanted to do youtube while I was still training and noticed that every artists I actually look up to aren't giving their 100% when they do youtube. So I decided a long time ago to put the youtube thing on hold until I get soo good that I can sketch my way into youtube. Otherwise TH-cam just becomes work.
what you have helped me to be aware of is that i must find joy in creating, just like i used to. im not sure when that disappeared from my life but i am thankful to be reminded of it.
im 18 and looking to start an art career, and perhaps to skip college too. i feel like this guy just told me a lot of the stuff i dont want to hear but need to hear. thanks. def subscribing after this one.
Wow this video actually made me find the answer to many of my problems related to art like "why I dont draw on my free time if this is fun " and such , thank you for these.
This is my 1st video watching from you,, i just don’t know why but i am crying.... I really needed this.. It’s been 1year i took drawing seriously and It's been really really REALLY frustrating.. I am learning on my own but in my heart i know i am not pushing hard enough, and i also blaming the environment for not my success... And this video of your just give the the realization of the reality... I hope i can be a professional artist someday.. I promise i will draw everyday :)
The most important thing is to love what you are doing. Its not all about the money and fame. You must be very happy when you are drawing. That the important thing. Anyway this video was really amazing. I really enjoyed it
how are you so freaking good, it infuriates me to draw every day having troubles with everything and you just put that stuff down.... aaaaaah i need to practice even more!
im so happy i just saw the title of the video you uploaded and the moment I listen in I knew it was going to be good, I've been really feeling a lot of these emotions trying to be a professional artist and this video was like a guidance for me
This was exactly what i needed, Steven. For some reason i was under the impression that if i wasn't in pain or under an uncomfortable struggle it meant i wouldn't improve. Again, tysm for your videos
loved this so much, been having an art block since my last high school years due to the amount of work and pressure of improving my academics and my art took a big hit and i started hating it... now since last month i’ve been watching dragon ball again and i felt like a kid again and started drawing again.... dbz was what got me to draw as a kid in the first place and now i’m not turning back and i’m gonna make this a career!
This is a very great tip makes me realized that I should ignore my thoughts that I couldn't do it because, because and because. I must fallow my heart desires in drawings and ignore things that just sound like excuse for myself to not do it
Nothing but the truth, it’s good to hear that. Today I sometimes regret not having done pharmacy in college and practiced art as a hobby, however I still draw optimistic plans for the future as an artist. The worst part is when frustrated professors at the university continue to teach lies or disappoint frustrations among young people.
Man, I have 21 years old and pursuing art since my 13 and man, I'm feeling exactly this, nothing else matters and appears to be gray, but, with art, there is a colorwheel but instead, the joy is not there, it's really strange but this is the thing I need to do.
I feel you. I feel like so many people go through this without ever being aware that they dont have the joy to create but they go on doing it. You have acknowledged this and I think thats a great step. I hope you find the peace and joy in your life.
Glad this video showed up in my recommended, art has consistently been my source of joy and strength no matter what hardships I face and I want to keep making art not just for my own happiness but to create happiness for other too. This video brought me a lot of strength and motivation again! I’m 17 and going to college in a few months and going through the questioning phases of my future, but seeing this helped as well as hearing that little challenge at the end! Give me another few years I’m gonna kick some ass >:)
Your videos have done an exceptional job at keeping me sane during difficult times where the tunnel seems unending and no light ever showing. I know it will come, and you truly have been a beacon of hope. Thank you
Really needed to hear this. Did all kinds of art school and tried going pro. My mental health just won’t let me do it. People always told me to become an artist since I was a child because it was just so natural, but while I loved the validation I hated the grind of networking and busting my ass to make it. A couple of friends are in the same boat for more or less the same reasons, but we all still love to draw in our free time. And honestly, after a couple of years of severe depression and bitterness around the trajectory of my career as an artist, I am so happy to be able to just draw in my free time for myself and my friends. It’s so freeing not to feel so much expectation and pressure over finishing a piece. Maybe I’ll try again when I’m retired or something, but for now, I’m more than happy to do art as a hobby, whether or not it makes any money. Life is short, and while some people see that as an incentive to work as hard as they can to make their passion a career, I don’t want my passion to be turned into a slog. It just isn’t worth it, at least not to me. And it took me a long time to realize that.
This is a super important video for me to watch. Art feels like something that comes naturally to my subconscious and my life and there was so much in this video that helps me in my beginning of my journey. thank you.
I have never received such great advice in such a beautiful poetic way 😢 😅 Thank you!! I got a very real check on why I’m still even attempting to draw and realized I was doing pieces and practicing in ways I did not find fun and found the things sucking the joy out of this passion that is so tightly entwined with my very being. Rekindling that joy has made even studying the things I need to to improve almost…therapeutic, like stretching unused muscles. Love your work and I’ll probably be bringing your channel for the next month or so 😂 Best wishes for ya
This might be my favorite video of the last five years. well done. also the part about "The art demon" is accurate, ask me at four in the morning when the sun isnt out yet.
I’m bipolar and it sucks because when I take my meds I have to work 10x harder to do portraits. Thanks for this video!!! You made me feel less crazy haha
Your words resonate, Steven. It's something that's concerned me. My wife gets upset every other day about how much I'm drawing , but I just tell her it s what's necessary to make the headway to the eventual goal: income as an artist. After 2 years, I'm getting a sense of the light at the end of the tunnel and can imagine another year or slightly longer will begin to bear fruit. It is constant. 6 Am, to 9 Am before work. Lunch breaks. Get home, 7pm-9pm before bed. And I do enjoy it. The process of learning. What you say holds true- my life has been filled with a constant stream of learning new things, and an obsession with learning how to develop skills efficiently. In music, my previous love, I learned trombone, guitar, drums, music production in order to make my own songs as I wanted them. Other passions like writing, exercise, dog training, have been set to the side while I put everything into art. And it is 'lonely'. I find solace in socializing and building relationships online, at my desk, with my artwork opened in front of me. New names and faces rotate with the seasons but some still hold true 2 years later. And I can honestly say they are stronger constants in my life than I have day-to-day, but that would be a result of my lack of effort in building relationships outside of my home. It is my wife, myself, our dog and our occasional foster pet. Thanks to an aptitude for staying occupied, the feeling of loneliness never sets in. I can only hope that things work out. While I have a degree in Information Systems, I personally have zero interest in learning it, or certifying new skills. That avenue may as well be "dead" to me when I leave it, which leaves art as the only path forward. I do believe there are opportunities, however. Employment, freelance, TH-cam and providing value to others through freelance education are enough to excite with the prospect that with each day, it's more likely I am an entrepreneur at heart than simply an artist. In many cases, you have to be one to fulfill the actual dream. But that's not a detriment, that's a dream in and of itself. One day I'll catch up to the titans of the field. Until then, I'll keep working. Thanks for your thoughts, Steven. And encouraging us to reflect on our own.
An intense comment, Alex! Thanks for the read. It is indeed a tricky path that requires an incredible deftness in self control, I know it can feel like a roller coaster. You can do it.
@@StevenZapataArt You're final statement in this video really hit home and drove me to respond to the myriad points you brought up, ha. It's such an awesome opportunity to share thoughts and experiences through things like TH-cam, I'm glad to be able to share some back to you in return. Thanks again!
Ok! Thanks for this superb piece. You're coming from Information systems. Then, I'm not the only weird one, coming from NetOps, and recently branched into SecOps. I've had awards for outstanding performance in the workforce with over 30K staff strength and as good as that stands, it didn't elate me as much as art does. Trying my hands at STEM education on TH-cam for the young ones, but my thirst ain't quenched. Seems to enjoy questions with diagrams and images much more than others and I know it's the pull of art. Your journey is a great encouragement and I'll give it a very fun filled shot.
@@DavetutsAcademy That’s great! Definitely keep it up. I’m happy to report that I’m working professionally in art now, as a Concept Artist for Alta VR, and done background painting on an indie animated series yet to release. It works out, like @Steven Zapatista Art said
Id try taking a break and if you miss it then you probably like it. Also if you enjoy the process then that’s a sign you enjoy it. Hope this is useful.
When I see a very public artist putting out work regularly, I wonder the same thing about them. I think that being sure to do some work that is only for you, and to take it just as seriously, is part of holding on to your personal enjoyment. That can be deceptive - sometimes good experimental work looks utterly unimpressive, because you definitionally don't have it all figured out.
it's really mindblowing to find your cluttered thoughts about what you're doing organized and phrased by one of your favourite artists of all times, thanks forever Steven.
First thoughts: Yea what he's saying rings true, it's insightful and inspiring in a familiar way. He speaks to the audience like talking to a friend. But then I had to stay for the sketching and heard the challenge at the end.. My friend, you're ON 😤👌
I am just completely floored by this video and its emotional approach to growth as an artist. Im not sure anyone could have put it better for me. And the idea that i have to approach it with the intention to enjoy it and not just do it mechanically. Im excited to learn more from this channel
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"You need to draw so much that people worry about you" - this line is brilliant.
How about when you stop drawing for a little bit an they worry even more? :P
like some other lines in that video :) "I ate drawings like peanut m&m's"
Yes. Amd while you will be at it, who will pay your bills and make money or give yiu some even for bloody paper? Don't look at well know quotes look, at the logic and reality of life!
The reality is im 15 and im being fed without doing anything and got 3 more years of that, so i will look at this quote and stay consistent enough to be better than before@@xxy4093
@xxy4093 lol ypu can still draw a lot and have a regular job
A lot of people do this. In school I made sure to have paper at all times not for work but to draw to the point I had to borrow paper because I didn't have enough. Of course as ypu getnolder it gets harder. But that's why most always has something on them to sketch on. It's like if you really love reading or watching movies. You'll find the time to do it.
If you're not enjoying drawing, consider the posibility that maybe right now life just kinda sucks at the moment? At least that was true for me when I decided to stop drawing, three/four years later I started scribbling while waiting for Maya to do its rendering thing, and wondered why did I ever stop drawing, and the simple honest answer was that when you're depressed, not a whole lot of things are fun, it was a joyous occasion to disovered that I actually did love drawing.
I guess my point is that it might not be YOUR fault you dont like drawing, it might just be that life at the moment kinda sucks.
This is so true
I hope steven talk about it someday
I know for me it’s hard knowing that something is better and I’m supposed to be doing it and if I don’t no one is going to like it. People tell me all the time that it doesn’t matter but if it doesn’t, why do a lot of artist sell out or do a particular thing a certain way? I don’t want to sell my art anymore but I’m in college and school breaks me down and rips me apart and I just don’t want to do it anymore but I really don’t want to stop, I just want to be happy.😔
this comment is the most important one, because with good videos like this one and many others I often just felt guilty and scared... of not loving it enough "oh i don't draw as much as it was said in this video, I go for days without drawing nowadays... that means I don't love art? BUT I LOVE ART, but this means I don't!?" just a freakish mess.
While I definitely agree with the sentiment, this still falls into the cold hard truth that it probably means you're not quite cut out to be a professional in this field. There's nothing wrong with that though, I feel people who do genuinely enjoy creating art as a fun hobby tend to feel like if there's no monetary goal at the end of the tunnel then they should feel bad, get depressed about it and stop. But as an aspiring professional you have to be able to pull yourself out of the funks and moods and depression if you wanna get paid. That too is a skill just like anything else talked about here and a million other places.
@@fromash5289 Errr.. I know loads of people including myself who used to be just in this position and now are working professionals. The idea that just because you didnt use to be cut out for professional work in the art field doesnt mean that will continue to be the case.
Like you said its a skill, and if its a skill it can be developed. Its also an asinine comment because depending on the circumstances of your living situation you are more prone to neuroticism, its a biological truth that if you have a lot of uncertainty and unstable parts of life that your seratonin doesnt dampen your negative emotions as much.
Dammmn the “I will draw circles around you” at the end was both playful and challenging. A determined smile cracked on my face after hearing that. I joyfully accept this challenge.
LOL I just saw this too!!! The fight!!
"The more skilled they become, the clearer the need for more than just skill" is a beautiful way of describing the Dunning-Kruger effect, which is a simple human trait.
how is that a description of the dunning-Kruger effect? explain.
@@freckleheckler6311 ...the simple definition from google for the Dunning-Kruger effect is: "The Dunning-Kruger effect effect occurs when a person's lack of knowledge and skills in a certain area cause them to overestimate their own competence." So, as you learn more, you realize there is more that you need to know/learn.
LOL that ending - challenge accepted.
Great video man. That was some high tier speaking, no living man I know can put forth such prose and paint a freakish hero narrative in the minds of listeners the way you do. Also your mention of Michael had me smilin'! Miss that fella.
Finding Steven Zapata through Proko has truly been a blessing.
@@brodieswift3061 Same!
You honor me old friend. Thank you for watching.
Is everything he said true? I shall have my answer!
Whoever is reading this,
I hope you have a great day!
Here is some artist inspiration for you 🎨 ✨
th-cam.com/video/OwQvrPaL4zI/w-d-xo.html
I think you're, so far the only artist I know of-- with any amount of clout-- that has publicly said that artists are freaks.
oh thats because freaks dont think they are freaks. They are optimized and normal int normal, normal is what doesnt function properly
every time Steven says "thanks for drawing today" I feel like I achieved A HUGE success of the DAY!
Started saying it to myself every day i draw. And it kind of encourages me to draw even if I got little, to no time in the day to spare.
same, my friend 🤗
Man, the ending felt like a strong pat in the ass before entering the field. Strong enough to make you jump, encouraging enough to get you on your feet and alert.
"you must fight for your joy" dude you had me tearing up. Also the loving threat at the end was just 👌😂
So being freaky weird and having fun is the KEY... I feel enlightened by this awesome man.
Thank you for reassuring the path of us passionate artists. I hope everyone finds joy and comfort in art too.
And yes, lets all “draw so much that people worry about you”!
What are you doing reading this comment. GO DRAW YOU SWEET PERSON!!!
Learning how to learn, and learning how to teach yourself doesn't just unlock art it unlocks everything.
I’ve never been both inspired and discouraged by one video lol. Guess I’ll keep drawing anyway lol.
Thanks for taking the time to talk about this Steven, it means a lot and your words are always welcome!
I'm really glad I found your channel. I dropped out of art school in 2019, in part of health reasons and in part because our teachers were....I don't know how to phrase it...difficult I guess. They always said they wanted us to make our own stuff and develop our own style. But in reality, whenever you experimented or tried something new, it was discouraged because it wasn't palatable for the industry. One teacher even only wanted us to draw exactly like him and copy his style one to one, giving out bad grades if your art wasn't to his personal taste. And it made me hate drawing so much for at least 2 years afterwards to the point I stopped drawing completely and seriously wanted to give up on it. It took time and therapy until I could at least decide to only draw for myself and be "selfish" with my art again. And last week I watched your video on flow and it honestly felt like the curse broke, so to speak. It was like the last missing puzzle piece I needed. Even when I hated drawing, deep down I couldn't give it up. I still wanted to visualize my ideas and get back that feeling of flow and relaxation I felt before. It was just, that whenever I put the pencil to paper, I saw that one art teacher in my mind, tearing everything apart. I can't thank you enough for your videos, I finally got back what I lost in art school.
I am honored to have been of such service to you. I was not actually sure that flow video could help anyone when I made it, but every time I read something like this it reminds me that much more is possible in the realm of art than we tend to believe.
Thats wonderful that you’ve found your passion again after that awful art school experience! What is the title of the video you’re referencing?
@@cerealis_5432 It was the one called Drawing Meditation #1: How to get in the Zone
Pedagogy. A term describing the ART of learning. I do magic tricks, play guitar and drum, beatbox, draw, paint, animate, skateboard, and craft miniature dioramas. I never would have learned any of it without learning to draw first. It doesn't matter how old you are or how young you are. It's always the right time to learn how to learn.
You’re a true example of a professional artist. You got great skills man.
I have arguments with my wife about art but it’s about sharing it. I’m currently a hermit doodler and itch if I’m not sketching. She sneaks into my sketch book every now and then and snags a picture to share. I get irritated but I know she does it out of love.
This just gave me a huge smile on my face. Thanks for sharing this. So Very wholesome, this is romance and love I haven’t heard of before.
I enjoy drawing. I'll worry about the rest later.
Same ^^
That’s a very intelligent thing to say. There’s a lot of brilliant artists out there. But the people who make money aren’t necessarily part of that group. Case in point, Rob Leifield.
Oh my god, I'm so happy someone talked about this. I totally relate to this. I did the whole taking all the art classes at community college, and then going to an art school in Paris and graduating with a bachelors in illustration. And now I'm living in Hong Kong, I've been part of 3 group shows, had a solo show, but I feel like right now I've just stagnated. Art is no longer a real joy, it feels more like a chore or something I put off. I feel guilty for wasting paper, for splashing paint around, because it feels like I need to sell sell, or to attract more followers, there's so little joy left in what I do. And yet sometimes I do find joy, but it is so very quickly extinguished by the reality that I don't care enough about my own work, so why should anyone else. I hope I get out of this rut.
When you said 'thank you for drawing today', I felt like I received the warmest huf after years of being touch deprived.
When I drew all day and took a break to eat? That was when Zapata shot past me. Tomorrow? Food is ELIMINATED
Food breaks are officially cancelled
There isn't really anything in this life that I enjoy. My depression has eaten all of me. However, I value art. It's the only vocation I can find meaning in, despite the fact that I rarely find joy in it these days. I suppose I'm not cut out to be an artist, but since I don't care for anything else, I must be one of those who simply die trying.
That’s hard. I hear yah.
"What is this joy? Can anyone describe it to me? I've never seen it." - That's what my comment was going to be, but I see someone's beat me to it.
You're not the only one, Jordan. Wonder how we'll fare going forward. Wish you well though!
@@neron8497 I hope it works out better for you. As long as you overcome depression, the joy should present itself. Almost everyone can respond to adequate treatment, so I have faith in your outcome.
@@philipodetola6 Ah, Jesus. Pray for me, will you? He isn't answering mine.
Its your fault that you are depressed. It literally is just an illusion.
Geez, this is so relatable! When I got this job as a coloring book artist, I was the happiest person on earth. I thought "wow, I finally got my dream job!" Never thought I could get drained doing it. There are times when I feel like I'm about to cry just because I need to hit the deadline and I still couldn't force myself to come up with new ideas. Deadlines suck. I realized it's different doing art as a hobby versus doing it as a job.
As a professional artist watching your video while I'm doing my own work, I almost broke down in to tears when you said "a professional will not be ultimately deterred". Having always struggled with trying to prove I'm good enough, even when at my job, always thinking there'll be that moment my co-workers find out I'm a sham, I think after these 17 years of practicing on and off and struggling, your words gave me peace of heart and mind.
You've clearly thought about these ideas thoroughly hence I admire your articulation
And yeah for that last part.. ha... bring it on friend. Always a fan of drawing duels
“This entire channel is my sketch book. In my actual work, I will draw circles around you.”
This has ignited a flame within me like no oil has before! Godspeed my friend! Thank you for this advice!
[ *sob's quietly in frustration* ] I'm coming for you Steve!
that end motivated me more than everything else. "I will draw circles around you", is that a goddamn challenge!?
i was just drawing while listening to this and when i was about to change the video till i heard oh your still here and just add as much sarcastic humour. it was pure gold.
I listened to this video of yours while drawing and I think all my frustration vanished for the time being, it felt so good. Recently blinded by my frustrations I made a bad post on the internet where I blamed the world for my mistakes, and you know how is people on the internet, they jumped at me which is understandable of course and I deserved that to snap back to reality. I'm really trying to make some awesome stuff which is good to look at, which will make me feel simply good. I think I'm on the right track just need to be more focused and not letting these frustrations get the better of me. When I'm listening to your videos I'm constantly thinking. Today I realized sometimes I need to give myself more time, it's not a race or anything like that, don't need to rush it just progress in your own tempo or something like that. Anyway thanks, I needed this.
That was an interesting video.. I'm 25, so i'm not that young that i can change paths willy nilly without some consequences.. before art I went to physics university, gave up, then medicine, gave up, all the while i was teetering the edge of giving up on life altogether and just ending it. I I found some kind of passion about drawing at the same time i managed to get help and stabilize my mental health about 3 years ago, and I've been on the path to professional illustration for about 2 years now.
Sometimes drawing feels like a muse, other times it feels like a demon, though i wonder if it's truly art thats making me feel this or that or if its just life, and drawing is just there taking the credit or blame. And the more this goes on I start to believe this really is just about life. I've seen lawyers end marriages because they work too much, i've seen engineers tie their self worth to their job. I've seen mathmaticians be absolutely elated about analysing a god damn chart with a bunch of numbers in it. I've seen doctors on the verge of suicide despite finding the utmost meaning in what they do. You can change any example you gave about art in your video to most carreers and it would still hold up, because this isn't about art, this is about life. Maybe we can effortlessly and joyfully go ahead full blast for a while, living the height of our ideals, but often we give all we have just not to drown. This is just regular humanhood.
This isn't some punishment for choosing art y'all, this is life everywhere. When life gets tough, every carreer is a fking dark souls boss. If you only have art and you don't love it, maybe take it out of art's shoulders the burden of providing you most of the meaning you need in your life. And maybe paradoxically that might help you find more joy in it as well, and work harder on it. It wont do to blame your current path for our struggles, we would still have them anywhere else. I say this because to me this is a huge relief, I can't force the art world to be kinder to my struggles, but I can work on how i perceive them. If this video was titled ''how to be a professional'' and ommited the art part, it would still hold up just fine.
I still remember how much i enjoyed drawing when i was was at highschool. I am trying to improve now years later but somehow i lost this joy and drawing became insufferable and painful over time as i became too critical and judgmental of myself. I am going to try to find this joy again, thanks for the video.
Also this ending is kinda scary ngl
The thing that always scares me into committing to art is that I feel I need to be more than an artist to be good at art. Like, I need to have lived more before I know how to convey anything meaningful, but I don't really know how to live either.
All you can do is try!
"I will draw circles around you" that was sooo fucking bad ass!! I think you are spot on Steven, I wanted to do youtube while I was still training and noticed that every artists I actually look up to aren't giving their 100% when they do youtube. So I decided a long time ago to put the youtube thing on hold until I get soo good that I can sketch my way into youtube. Otherwise TH-cam just becomes work.
Thanks for this. I appreciate you not sugar-coating the advice or trying to sell us a product at the end.
what you have helped me to be aware of is that i must find joy in creating, just like i used to. im not sure when that disappeared from my life but i am thankful to be reminded of it.
Loves the last line. All inspirational then "I will draw circles around you" hahahaha
im 18 and looking to start an art career, and perhaps to skip college too. i feel like this guy just told me a lot of the stuff i dont want to hear but need to hear. thanks. def subscribing after this one.
with your help and motivation i drew a 10+ hour drawing. thank you
I am shaken by the reality of this entire video. I laughed, audibly, nodded and "hmm"ed.
Ty.
love the ending
Very, very wise words sir. This really is the only philosophy that works.
Wow this video actually made me find the answer to many of my problems related to art like "why I dont draw on my free time if this is fun " and such , thank you for these.
This is my 1st video watching from you,, i just don’t know why but i am crying.... I really needed this.. It’s been 1year i took drawing seriously and It's been really really REALLY frustrating.. I am learning on my own but in my heart i know i am not pushing hard enough, and i also blaming the environment for not my success... And this video of your just give the the realization of the reality... I hope i can be a professional artist someday.. I promise i will draw everyday :)
The most important thing is to love what you are doing. Its not all about the money and fame. You must be very happy when you are drawing. That the important thing. Anyway this video was really amazing. I really enjoyed it
Nice snatch book and good advice . I started a year ago I drew 3 hours a day yet I keep it a secret because am embraced by it 🙂
how are you so freaking good, it infuriates me to draw every day having troubles with everything and you just put that stuff down.... aaaaaah i need to practice even more!
this channel just saved my life
im so happy i just saw the title of the video you uploaded and the moment I listen in I knew it was going to be good, I've been really feeling a lot of these emotions trying to be a professional artist and this video was like a guidance for me
Man, i love your words. You're the top 3 on youtube
This is rapidly becoming one of my favorite art channels
This was exactly what i needed, Steven.
For some reason i was under the impression that if i wasn't in pain or under an uncomfortable struggle it meant i wouldn't improve.
Again, tysm for your videos
That ending honestly felt like such a genuine and motivating challenge. You are on.
I never heard more better art advice
Just finished listening to this
I'm unnerved
Just listening to you talk is really relaxing and educative
loved this so much, been having an art block since my last high school years due to the amount of work and pressure of improving my academics and my art took a big hit and i started hating it... now since last month i’ve been watching dragon ball again and i felt like a kid again and started drawing again.... dbz was what got me to draw as a kid in the first place and now i’m not turning back and i’m gonna make this a career!
This is a very great tip makes me realized that I should ignore my thoughts that I couldn't do it because, because and because. I must fallow my heart desires in drawings and ignore things that just sound like excuse for myself to not do it
Omg, great watch! Thank you for the smile.
Nothing but the truth, it’s good to hear that. Today I sometimes regret not having done pharmacy in college and practiced art as a hobby, however I still draw optimistic plans for the future as an artist. The worst part is when frustrated professors at the university continue to teach lies or disappoint frustrations among young people.
I can’t get over how perfect and quick you drew the ladies face. Perfect jaw line lol
This may be the best video I've ever seen on becoming a professional artist.
“You need to compete with ME” that line hit so hard
Wow. That’s like a spread sheet to my life.
You're a fantastic storyteller!
I love the little kick to push people at the end, great touch.
Man, I have 21 years old and pursuing art since my 13 and man, I'm feeling exactly this, nothing else matters and appears to be gray, but, with art, there is a colorwheel but instead, the joy is not there, it's really strange but this is the thing I need to do.
I feel you. I feel like so many people go through this without ever being aware that they dont have the joy to create but they go on doing it. You have acknowledged this and I think thats a great step. I hope you find the peace and joy in your life.
@@yesham0 thank you man, this is a long journey but at least, the first step has been made, thank you again 🙌🏼
That ending pumped me up so much. I'm dripping with determination
Thank you for this incredible video. You made me feel there is someone in the world who understands what my life is like! Cheers!
Glad this video showed up in my recommended, art has consistently been my source of joy and strength no matter what hardships I face and I want to keep making art not just for my own happiness but to create happiness for other too. This video brought me a lot of strength and motivation again! I’m 17 and going to college in a few months and going through the questioning phases of my future, but seeing this helped as well as hearing that little challenge at the end! Give me another few years I’m gonna kick some ass >:)
I always expect these videos to hit home, and they always do.
Your videos have done an exceptional job at keeping me sane during difficult times where the tunnel seems unending and no light ever showing. I know it will come, and you truly have been a beacon of hope. Thank you
This has to be the most honest and insightful advice for an artist that I’ve ever heard. Thanks
Thank you. You remember me enjoy drawing
In some of your videos your recommended a book and I want to thank you for that. I was reading it yesterday and its incredible.
Im Listening to this while waiting my Job Interview! Thank you Mr. Zapata!
This is the video I did not expect to see, but I’m grateful that I’ve seen it ✨
This is, by far, the best video I´ve seen in while. Passionate, realistic and crudely motivating.
Ok this has to be the best youtube video I have ever watched in my entire life. Thank you.
You’ve obviously never been to the part TH-cam where people summon archangels to help them in knife fights
@@StevenZapataArt
This video would still be the best. You changed my life in 10 minutes
Really needed to hear this. Did all kinds of art school and tried going pro. My mental health just won’t let me do it. People always told me to become an artist since I was a child because it was just so natural, but while I loved the validation I hated the grind of networking and busting my ass to make it. A couple of friends are in the same boat for more or less the same reasons, but we all still love to draw in our free time. And honestly, after a couple of years of severe depression and bitterness around the trajectory of my career as an artist, I am so happy to be able to just draw in my free time for myself and my friends. It’s so freeing not to feel so much expectation and pressure over finishing a piece. Maybe I’ll try again when I’m retired or something, but for now, I’m more than happy to do art as a hobby, whether or not it makes any money. Life is short, and while some people see that as an incentive to work as hard as they can to make their passion a career, I don’t want my passion to be turned into a slog. It just isn’t worth it, at least not to me. And it took me a long time to realize that.
This is a super important video for me to watch. Art feels like something that comes naturally to my subconscious and my life and there was so much in this video that helps me in my beginning of my journey. thank you.
I have never received such great advice in such a beautiful poetic way 😢 😅 Thank you!! I got a very real check on why I’m still even attempting to draw and realized I was doing pieces and practicing in ways I did not find fun and found the things sucking the joy out of this passion that is so tightly entwined with my very being. Rekindling that joy has made even studying the things I need to to improve almost…therapeutic, like stretching unused muscles. Love your work and I’ll probably be bringing your channel for the next month or so 😂
Best wishes for ya
sounds like someone has a love of the language arts as well. there was poetry to this, excellent video.
This might be my favorite video of the last five years. well done.
also the part about "The art demon" is accurate, ask me at four in the morning when the sun isnt out yet.
I’m bipolar and it sucks because when I take my meds I have to work 10x harder to do portraits. Thanks for this video!!! You made me feel less crazy haha
Your words resonate, Steven. It's something that's concerned me. My wife gets upset every other day about how much I'm drawing , but I just tell her it s what's necessary to make the headway to the eventual goal: income as an artist. After 2 years, I'm getting a sense of the light at the end of the tunnel and can imagine another year or slightly longer will begin to bear fruit.
It is constant. 6 Am, to 9 Am before work. Lunch breaks. Get home, 7pm-9pm before bed. And I do enjoy it. The process of learning.
What you say holds true- my life has been filled with a constant stream of learning new things, and an obsession with learning how to develop skills efficiently. In music, my previous love, I learned trombone, guitar, drums, music production in order to make my own songs as I wanted them. Other passions like writing, exercise, dog training, have been set to the side while I put everything into art.
And it is 'lonely'. I find solace in socializing and building relationships online, at my desk, with my artwork opened in front of me. New names and faces rotate with the seasons but some still hold true 2 years later. And I can honestly say they are stronger constants in my life than I have day-to-day, but that would be a result of my lack of effort in building relationships outside of my home. It is my wife, myself, our dog and our occasional foster pet. Thanks to an aptitude for staying occupied, the feeling of loneliness never sets in.
I can only hope that things work out. While I have a degree in Information Systems, I personally have zero interest in learning it, or certifying new skills. That avenue may as well be "dead" to me when I leave it, which leaves art as the only path forward.
I do believe there are opportunities, however. Employment, freelance, TH-cam and providing value to others through freelance education are enough to excite with the prospect that with each day, it's more likely I am an entrepreneur at heart than simply an artist.
In many cases, you have to be one to fulfill the actual dream. But that's not a detriment, that's a dream in and of itself.
One day I'll catch up to the titans of the field. Until then, I'll keep working.
Thanks for your thoughts, Steven. And encouraging us to reflect on our own.
An intense comment, Alex! Thanks for the read. It is indeed a tricky path that requires an incredible deftness in self control, I know it can feel like a roller coaster. You can do it.
@@StevenZapataArt You're final statement in this video really hit home and drove me to respond to the myriad points you brought up, ha. It's such an awesome opportunity to share thoughts and experiences through things like TH-cam, I'm glad to be able to share some back to you in return.
Thanks again!
Ok! Thanks for this superb piece.
You're coming from Information systems. Then, I'm not the only weird one, coming from NetOps, and recently branched into SecOps. I've had awards for outstanding performance in the workforce with over 30K staff strength and as good as that stands, it didn't elate me as much as art does. Trying my hands at STEM education on TH-cam for the young ones, but my thirst ain't quenched. Seems to enjoy questions with diagrams and images much more than others and I know it's the pull of art.
Your journey is a great encouragement and I'll give it a very fun filled shot.
@@DavetutsAcademy That’s great! Definitely keep it up. I’m happy to report that I’m working professionally in art now, as a Concept Artist for Alta VR, and done background painting on an indie animated series yet to release.
It works out, like @Steven Zapatista Art said
I LOVE THE MESSAGE thank you so much for your content!!!
I’ve actually been struggling with a question- do I actually like art? Or am I just doing it because other people say I’m good at it...
Id try taking a break and if you miss it then you probably like it.
Also if you enjoy the process then that’s a sign you enjoy it.
Hope this is useful.
When I see a very public artist putting out work regularly, I wonder the same thing about them.
I think that being sure to do some work that is only for you, and to take it just as seriously, is part of holding on to your personal enjoyment. That can be deceptive - sometimes good experimental work looks utterly unimpressive, because you definitionally don't have it all figured out.
Ok, this spoke to my SOUL!!! That artistic journey is a wilderness
Love that ending.
Truly inspirational, you've instilled a sense of superhuman power in me.
What brilliant words you said there, just blew my mind on this saga, and fight that is life, and it's definitely along with art
Thank you for this! It was the kick up the arse I needed!
for there to be art there must be joy.
Steven, Thanks... this video arribes just when it have to.
Damn Steven, right in the heart but I really appreciate how honest you are about the artist life.
it's really mindblowing to find your cluttered thoughts about what you're doing organized and phrased by one of your favourite artists of all times, thanks forever Steven.
I listened to this video 3 times in a row now and honestly, it got me pumped up to draw more, thank you!
Very tough words I needed to hear. Thank you so much for this video.
First thoughts: Yea what he's saying rings true, it's insightful and inspiring in a familiar way. He speaks to the audience like talking to a friend.
But then I had to stay for the sketching and heard the challenge at the end..
My friend, you're ON 😤👌
I love your videos!
Please don't stop
I am just completely floored by this video and its emotional approach to growth as an artist. Im not sure anyone could have put it better for me. And the idea that i have to approach it with the intention to enjoy it and not just do it mechanically.
Im excited to learn more from this channel