When creating there is a temptation to follow what others do, especially when we see someone who is successful. We can be drawn to that shiny, polished, completed package and think that they hold the secret we’ve been missing.
For the purposes of learning there isn’t anything wrong with copying. However, there comes a time when you need to establish your own creative voice.
Repeating what others are doing is a disservice to yourself and robs the world of your unique view.
Of course, our challenge as artists is to find our own voice in the conversation. The only way I know how to do that is to stumble through the messy, convoluted business of creating.
Now, you won’t get better by reading or watching videos of others creating. You will only get better by taking the time, putting in the effort… doing the work.
On the other side of the coin, don’t just put out more “noise”.
Challenge yourself to bring value to others.
The 12 days of Christmas
The 12 Days of Christmas challenge gave me a number of ways to bring my own voice to that project.
The turtle shell hats for doves, various appropriate props for the french hens and, of course, a new take on then a-swimming swans are all ways that I brought my voice to this project.
My other observation on “creative voice” this week, similar to creativity as a muscle, is that your voice only gets stronger as you use it. You get clarity about what you want to say, plus what is and isn’t in line with your voice.
So, forge ahead, find your creative voice, and share it.
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