You Aren’t A Quitter Because You Want To Quit Art

#artpodcast #quittingart #artmotivation #artcareer #arteducation
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Interested in the LUCIDPIXUL PRIVATE ART MENTORSHIP? Please visit:
www.lucidpixul.com/
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Join me on ArtStation!
www.artstation.com/adamduff
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PAINTING APPS USED IN THIS VIDEO:
- ArtStudio Pro (iPad Pro)
- Photoshop (Desktop)
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DRAWING EQUIPMENT USED IN THIS VIDEO:
- Wacom Cintiq 27QHD
- M2 iPad Pro (2022 model)
- Wacom Intuos Pro
- MagFlott iPad Stand by CharJenPro
AUDIO EQUIPMENT
- Shure SM7B Broadcast Mic: bit.ly/3RvoQGy
- Sennheiser MKH416 Shotgun Mic
- Sennheiser AVX MKE 2 Lav Mic
- Electrovoice RE20 Broadcast Mic: bit.ly/3RBElNb
- Rode NTG5 Shotgun Mic: bit.ly/3L4k8gw
- Rode NTH-100 Monitoring Headphones: bit.ly/3eFco8O
- Rode PodMics: bit.ly/3DedD92
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VIDEO RESOURCES
All video motion graphics, intros and transitions are produced by MotionVFX
www.motionvfx.com
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ART RESOURCES
all artwork is produced using Adobe Photoshop
www.adobe.com
My drawing tablets of choice is the Wacom Cintiq
www.wacom.com/en-us
My portable tablet of choice is the iPad Pro 12.9"
www.apple.com

[@NobleHusky]

"Too stupid to quit" - A quote from a Navy Seal I use to answer why I just can't stop trying to make art.

[@AdamDuffArt]

I love that - it actually reminds me of a line from a Harry Connick Jr. song “I ain’t got time to hurry so I’ll take my time”

[@vultureiraq1168]

im working on a story and despite having the downs of writing it, i cant give up on this novel!.. i always wanna go back to working on it. 😆

[@ValyxBassSlap]

I'm not even halfway into the video and this resonates way to much to my own experience, that feeling of lying to yourself, to look at others half your age or older and having twice that success. I always drew before for superficial reasons, to please other people, to show them "look, I have a talent !", to feel like I mattered in a family that forced me through general education, always worrying about me because I was the one not succeeding in school, struggling to find a path, having tried so many different things from music to martial arts to team sports or option studies and always abandoning when it became to difficult. And what happened is that everyone close to me loves me, and cares for my well being in life but by worrying so much they passed their entire time telling me what I should do or shouldn't, pay attention to this or that or when I failed they would show that disapointment, when i got fired from a job I had an undetermined contract in and stuff like that. And what happened and I only discovered that recently is that... all the decisions I made, my behavior, my personnality was to make sure I was recognized by my family, to follow their trail and telling myself that I was not good enough to do otherwise, to a point that when I was meeting new people I would adapt to their personnality, zero integrity for myself, zero confidence and I couldn't figure out why I couldn't find my path artistically for months after drawing and learning to do what others wanted to see come out of me. ( and Adam, if you read this, our consultation and your videos helped me realize all that little by little ). And I can't stress enough how Liberating, it is to finally listen to yourself for the first time and make a decision of your oan, even if it might displease or worry someone else, to the point I might lose them, or not. Despite these worries that I experience in my head and others might experience something similar, listening to yourself and deciding, that's where I wanna go, that's what I wanna do despite others telling you it's not safe, that's an easy path blablabla... it feels GREAT to finally just, make a decision for yourself, listen to yourself.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Who is this? You said that we had a consultation together but I’m not sure who this is. Regardless, everything you said was spot on and I’m so guilty of the same thing. It’s scary to be yourself when you take accountability for the outcome of a relationship entirely on your own. You feel that your decisions alone determine whether you succeed or not when it’s a combined effort. So long as you know you were being true to yourself and acting in the best interest of everyone (yourself included!), then you need not take the blame for failure. A relationship or life decision can’t survive when you’re living outside of yourself, not in a healthy way at least.

[@ValyxBassSlap]

@@AdamDuffArt I'm Valentin, the guy from Belgium that wants to be a character designer, the Anato Finnstark fan and how his paintings were calling me and you explained to me at length the amazing art philosophy of Frank Frazetta using shadow for form and light for texture, playing with values in a way that the shadow shape never breaks, painting like the whole character and scene were one sculpture, I had a black Hyper X headset too if that helps you remember haha :) But no worries if you don't, because I have my precious recording of that consultation that I will value for the rest of my career/life. that's exactly it and trust me I always wanted the best for everyone else, especially for those whom I value and love but it reached a point where I almost completely forgot who I truly was or if I ever really knew that because I was trying to force myself back from what I really wanted, to be more like the succesful family members, to say hey, they're the safe bet so I should probably listen and the scary hting is, now that I realise that I don't want to face them and challenge them, fight them to say "that's what I want and you can't stop me !" but actually explain what I want and work things out together, But it also reached a point where I want to stand for my own decisions and if a loved one strongly or aggressively challenges me, I don't want to disrespect or fight them, but I want to calmly say that's what I will do whether you like it or not. And your video after reaching the end taught me to listen to myself even to face problems and how to adress them in a way that fits me best and that is also a gentle and compassionate way. Thank you for everything you share with us.

[@jazztheblast279]

bro that deaper then the ocen

[@alieenoir]

Wow thank you so much for sharing this story! I hope you will find who you wanna become and be happy ❤

[@ValyxBassSlap]

@@alieenoir thank you for the encouragement, I am working on it. If that story can help or relate to others to find themselves it’s all the better.

[@neutralbeige01]

thank you for this video. im here after a difficult transitioning period of my life and getting back into my art. im only 23 but just a year after graduating university, it feels so easy to guilt myself into thinking ive wasted 365 days being "lazy and pathetic" when in reality i was grieving, and losing my sense of self. i dont want this to be a trauma dump comment, because i am tired of acting like my whole sense of being is just a culmination of personal hardship. it is not. im here now and today because i am strong and i will always want to chase after something that allows me to live freely for my love of art. i want to move forward knowing that even while my path is unknown, it will always be made through a love for something i cannot ever deny. i want to move forward feeling enough. i want to hold compassion for myself, so that i can echo the same sentiment to the things and people i care about. i want to be proud of what i have done and will do. thank you for your insight and love.

[@Jeyblox]

im in the exact same situation, 23 and a year after graduating, youre not alone!

[@neutralbeige01]

@@Jeyblox this is super comforting to hear 😭 thank you

[@nat298]

wow, this is the exact situation I'm in too. 23, one year after graduating, and I can't even get myself to apply for jobs. Maybe even worse, I can't really get myself to do things I enjoy either. Even art has fallen by the wayside, and even though I know that there's probably more at play than laziness alone it's still so tough to watch yourself sit around and binge watch youtube day after day (always thinking something like "tomorrow I'm gonna try to work on an art project again" but never actually doing it). I'm trying like you to muster up enough motivation to get out of this rut because I'm completely aware that moping around isn't ever going to change anything but it's seriously such a draining and seemingly pointless way to live your life, and it kind of just feels like a cycle of apathy that I can't really escape! Anyways, I'm not looking for validation or trying to trauma dump, just letting you know that maybe there are other people out there going through the same thing as you.🥲 I really hope your efforts are going well!

[@Kindelwyrm2]

I feel this. I've had terrible art block for the past several months, in part due to psychological issues. It never really feels like enough - but I haven't necessarily had any success. I live somewhere where there are no art jobs for me. It's been hard, because it makes me unable to really consider myself an artist. I've had no real professional success, but for so long art has been an intrinsic part of my identity. To the point where I've seriously been considering giving up art completely, and going back to school for something else.

[@whitesnake.]

I can truly feel this.

[@Cyberpunk644]

@@whitesnake. have a job, pay the rent and food first.

[@InVitroBanana]

I'm in a kind of similar situation. I've tried to get a job for years in art industry (in Germany). But I never was successful. Also, I was part of some projects which never got finished by those in charge. And this lead me also to a serious art block. But never let something like this to the thought, that you are not an artist. Whether you are an artist or not doesn't depend upon whether you make an income out of it.

[@kyndl3596]

I think that it's just absolutely amazing that you chose to show this vulnerable of yourself to guide and show us pieces of your wisdom/advice. Beautiful.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well thank you. I can assure you it’s not for clicks or views, it’s because the people who touch my life deserve to know it as truthfully as possible.

[@llynhunter]

Hey Adam, 33 years as a storyboard artist for animation. I have had four breaks that have lasted longer than a year in my career where I wondered if I would ever get hired in animation again. I just got laid off once more, and the prospects of a job any time soon are not looking good. I really appreciate when you give this kind of encouragement. It is so good to know that others have gone through the same things you are going through yourself. I'm addicted to creating; my life has been a just credit line on hundreds of television shows, but I have been paid to draw for most of most of it, so I can't really complain. Thank you once again for taking your time and energy to renew ours when we hit our low points. You always give me new ways look inward and outward.

[@zayaatelier452]

I lost my father to a very serious cancer, I saw him die little by little while I was looking for ways to stay creative, because it demanded a lot from me to stay active, it wasn't easy, I stopped drawing when he got sick, I started working with different techniques, such as natural dyeing and embroidery, but I wanted to go back to drawing but I didn't see beauty in anything anymore, only after a year did I return to drawing, but during this whole process of mourning and illness I got to know myself a lot as an artist. that helped me to better understand my message and that gave me confidence to continue, I will never give up, because my mind says to me 'it's almost there... almost there...' I know that there is no such thing as almost there, I understand that it's all a journey, today I just want to do what makes me happy as an artist, and trust that the paths that are for me will find me while I also do my part, actively create and seek clients. your channel was a gem found in that sea of ​​content. thank you for everything. hugs from Brazil

[@stephaniebelenets2666]

I keep going because I can't not create and make Art. I need it like I need air. Listening to you while I paint is a pleasure. Thank you, Adam for speaking from your heart to mine.

[@bobc4d]

To thine own self be true, one can look at others but in the end it is still YOU and how you live your life. I would pay 20 dollars to see teenage fashionista Adam Diff

[@lucycannon6732]

Adam, thank you for this talk. I've followed you for a few years, but rarely comment. You've been a voice of artistic reason and encouragement in a sea of 'tips and tricks', and what I value most about your content is your thoughtful approach to the challenges that we all face. I've made 'art' my whole life, but never to sell, as I made it for family or friends and whoever asked. My kids are grown, and recently my husband suggested I stay home and work on art, and that he would be my patron. I'm terrified. Thrilled, but terrified, as I've always made things for specific people, and have no idea what 'style' is mine! I don't think I want to do pet portraits or garden dolls for a living, but I'm neurodivergent, and my paintings can get me some sidelong glances. I'm in my mid 50s now, and I'm wondering how much time I've got to find my vision. When I get worked up and the anxiety is too much, I find one of your videos, and listen to your calming voice, and even if I don't find an answer, I end up feeling better just because you were there, doing what you do. Thank you from the bottom of my cockles, and might I also add, nice tits! ;)

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well, it sounds to me like it’s not about finding your vision, rather, accepting it. You identity isn’t something that can be defined or labelled, it’s felt - within you alone. Whatever reality you live in is your own reality. And thanks for the tits compliment btw - sometimes the blunt approach hits best :)

[@TawnyFritz]

The part about the Self is critical for people to understand. I've been trying to reassure artists for months that we aren't going extinct but people get really, really salty about it.

[@tothemax3884]

Adam, your empathic, loving approach towards artists means so much to me to have as a resource. So much of the art community is geared towards productivity and "making it", but having your channel to open up when I'm feeling lost or unsure of myself means more than I can express in words. Thank you so much for what you do

[@theartistrator766]

I relate to so much about this video. I've always had a philosophy of -never regret the parts of your past that has made you who you are. Your bad art. Your weird style as a teen. Your experiments and failers...it's all part of your history that has chipped away to make what you are becoming. Your taking chances and acceptance of aspects of yourself is how you build your "bones". Being brave enough to realize your strengths and seeing how you got those strengths is the hard part.

[@fredericmanson441]

You bring peace in my heart, you bring peace in my mind. I'm struggling for years against myself (severe nervous breakdown) and watching your video, no, not watching, but listening to what you say it really help me. I know that when I see me in a mirror is ME and not that fatty ugly monster I see myself like, I will be free, I will be happy, I will embrace life like as never I have did--or thought I did. For that, thank you so much, thank you, thank you, thank you...

[@AdamDuffArt]

Oh you are so very welcome :)

[@dplj4428]

Adam, what I hear: We shed the impostor by owning the self we are. 46:00 heart ❤️ feels.

[@Moruss79]

Great points, I have been fighting to keep on honing my art while it seems everything around me in my life is a pressure to remind me of my flaws and limitations rather than how I keep taking chances to do my thing sometimes pays off in ways I never expect. That fear of failure and disapproval is a frigging monster. I fail often and am disapproved by my kin but I am still standing, the world is bigger than other folks opinions. Enjoyed your insights.

[@lexlazaruz]

This was such a beautiful video and it resonated with me so much. Thank you for sharing these uplifting thoughts. As a teacher of Philosophy, I encountered quite a few theories about how to live a "good life", but how each and every one of us manages this journey is an art in itself and you phrased it very beautifully when you said that our individuality is what connects us to one another. Everyone struggles in their own way and the thought that through our struggles we get to know who we are and that we are worthy, even though we haven't got it all figured out, is incredibly healing. Thank you so much for providing this space. Sometimes, I forget we are all on our individual way and that noone has it all figured out and it is hard not to compare yourself to others at times when you don't fit into the system like many others. I was struggling for the past 15 years, since I headed off into adulthood, not knowing what "was wrong with me" until recently when I found out. Turns out I'm alright after all and just have a cyclical scanner personality type, which I've never heard of before. But it all makes sense now and I can try to find my individual way, even if that's not the way everyone else takes. And it scares me. Because now I can start over. Guess we all have to be brave.

[@AdamDuffArt]

I just happen to be learning that as we speak, through the Dialogues of Plato - the foundation of all philosophy. Very appropriate to what I spoke about today - advanced students of philosophy tend to start missing that point, pushing their final word on topics. I have to keep reminding myself to reserve the right to contemplate my own feelings and not get seduced by the wiser opinions of others - or to allow myself to believe that a “final word” can ever really exist. Philosophy can get unnecessarily complicated and confusing and even discouraging if you let those outside voices muddle your own sense of self - it’s exhausting standing up for your own opinions when you get in the ring of people’s opinions. I have found that my safest and most nourishing approach towards learning from philosophy is by journaling - it protects my right to think at my own speed and personalize what I learn rather than let smart folks interpret it for me.

[@lexlazaruz]

@@AdamDuffArt To me, the trick is to take a step back and try to see philosophy as what it basically is: an accumulation of theories and opinions of very curious people that don‘t have to be true and can all proven to be wrong. There isn‘t just one way and one answer. I see it as a pool of resources you can use and pick the parts from that make a path passable. It gets way less intimidating that way. Sartre once said, one can only see who they were at the very end of their lives because we are the sum of our decisions and are always evolving. Defining ourselves before the end of our lives would limit us. I think that is a very beautiful way to see it because it feels like everything is possible and you always can choose to change your life every single day. And to not give a shit about other people‘s opinions. The last part isn‘t Sartre… that‘s my addition to it.

[@DuiDrop]

almost a 40-year-old animator here, and everything in this touched my heart beyond belief. It's incredible to see how common our struggles are but it's so beautiful to see people power thru those hard times. I too teared up watching this. thank you for your wisdom Adam, I look up to you 💖

[@lara-melissamurillo8277]

“It becomes it’s greatest achievement, when it is the purest expression of who you are as a person. All bells and whistles aside.“

[@mrcrobart]

thank you Adam for this great art talk :)

[@MANIAKRA]

Only 16mins in and already you've touched on so many topics I am experiencing lately. Not even chasing a dream job anymore just trying to find stable work as an artist is so difficult recently... unbearable even. I give it to all of you chasing your dreams in this field. I defend artists of all kinds. Thanks for the words Adam, it helps.

[@AdamDuffArt]

And thank you in return :)

[@shintasei]

This really hit at the right moment for me, it is very hard to be who you really are without it feeling like it's a mistake, like it's the wrong road, thank you Adam.

[@nickphilipps3900]

beautiful video Adam! Keep up the good work!!!

[@Tahasikeri]

I love your Videos Adam!

[@henrykuld]

Adam you are a beautiful human being :) Thank you

[@AshJCarter]

Thank you so much Adam for taking the time to create this video. I really appreciate the message you shared. I have been looking around for guidance on my artistic journey and was not expecting this to go deep into the inner self as part of the artistic journey. This is very important information and has given me the kick I need to look deeper in self acceptance to help me in my career to take it to the next level.

[@timetravlr625]

You really helped me learning about some important ipad features, thanks !! Peace & Blessings! I appreciate You

[@RichardK_art]

Wow... Thank you Adam! I am so lucky I watched it in the right moment of my life. It reconates so much with what I am feeling right now in life as an artist.

[@stonerslothh5124]

Thank you so much. Your voice is really important, i gain motivation to keep going from every your video

[@ChubbyCreatureArt]

It took me some time to watch this Video as it seamed like a pretty heavy topic, I really like your videos, specially right now as I'm put into a Artistic Struggel as to where I want to go with my Art, its a fight between wanting to get a Job in the industry and finding what kind of style and Artist I want to be, at the same time. Your videos help me a lot about thinking about my own path as a Artist while also being very relaxing and motivating. Thanks a lot for the great Videos

[@VaivaToo]

Thank you for your words!

[@knightsjoker]

this helps with my current mental health state. thanks adam. ❤ 🥰

[@makjr1247]

Love listening to your philosophy on life art. Be well friend.

[@elenk2826]

Adam, your videos are always a therapy session for me through my artistic journey and they always come out at times when I need those the most. I've been postponing to draw my dreams, my vision, my own stories and concentrating on something that is expected from the art industry to get the "dream job". Lately I keep thinking what to do to be able to move forward with my own art and I still have no idea how and where to start, but this just made it clearer that I should concentrate more on that rather than just fitting into the overall standards. Thank you very much! What you do really makes a lot of impact and leads to changes.

[@prismaticmochi]

15:06 you didn't have to call me out like that! 🤣 jk, but thank you for this video, it speaks to everyone, whether they're an artist or not.

[@kaylee1772]

My world would be a much darker place without you and your videos. You bring so much warmth

[@Erotesn]

right from the begining of the video you hit home on a lot of my own experiences with doubt in my own art, that ive past my peak as an artist in my abilties but hearing from your experiences its helped me gain a better perspective on the path as an artist that you can find that something that drove you to excel and explore emotion and creativity and grow in your path as an artist, as well as to reach out to peers and other artists to learn from their perspectives and struggles.

[@peesukarhu_OFFICIAL]

You are a great person Adam, love to watch your valuable talking head videos full of wisdom and other videos as well!

[@liamrodgers48]

I hope your very well Adam, thank you for the advice, I struggle heavily with imposter syndrome and have done with every career I’ve had, more so than ever in trying to learn art being so fresh to it, I needed to hear this thank you. Also started using the draftable for iPad Pro today, brilliant recommendation from yourself!

[@wmccinema]

I really love this Channel and the person behind this!

[@art.of.segura]

Thanks for such a heart felt vlog. I hope you back is also doing better.

[@anthonydavid1965]

Wise words indeed and all so true. We should never stop learning, no matter how much we think we know, as we really know so little of what goes on within us and all around us. Ps I watched your video about your back journey and I hope you’ve continued to find some peace and relief from your pain. Take care.

[@Mr.Salad_]

I have always been interested in art, I would always doodle on my work in school and would get some comments on it by the teachers who said they appreciated looking at something different. It helped me feel like I was connecting with them on a level that was higher than just my role as a student. That being said, my school's never had an art program, I was never taught that there were any methods beyond just looking into your mind and creating something, and then trying to put it on paper. In this sense I feel like I gained something unique, my imagination was being used so much to create things, but I had to suffer the pain of never seeing the final product come to life like I had imagined. This is why I do hope to pursue art in my life, why I want so badly to "catch up" and learn even the most basic principles I had never learned. I dream of the day where I can create something that connects people to my mind, and theirs to one another's. My biggest dream to do that is making my own video game. I have to learn to be a writer, and programmer, an artist, a storyteller, a designer, and I feel there isn't possibly enough time in the world for all of that. But I will spend the rest of my life pushing for it anyway. So for those of you who have gotten a start, or are waiting for yours, know that Adam is absolutely right here. Be authentic in everything you do, ask yourself where it is coming from, your experience is nurtured by teachers and yourself, but how you apply it MUST come from the most authentic version of yourself. I am trying to discover who that is, and in time I will know, and I hope so very much that everyone of you does as well.

[@dplj4428]

Time to sleep. Needed this message again to feed my dreamscape tonight.

[@sudenkallo]

i love who you are and what you do with all my heart, thank you

[@AdamDuffArt]

You’re very welcome :)

[@nightnol]

Wow. This made me tear up. I feel it deeply. Thanks for sharing this.

[@steiff-art]

Waow ... this video struck straight into my heart and shed a light on what I've been struggling all this time ... I'm 52 and finding myself moving around in circles only to realise that I'm only trying to discover who I really am and accept myself the way I am ... thank you so much for this eye opening speech ... have a nice and peaceful day

[@countesschewi2399]

I think one of the things I love about your videos is that by being as open and honest as you are, you end up giving the viewer a way to reflect on themselves that wouldn't be possible otherwise, and I appreciate it greatly. I have just finished my third and final year of my 2D animation university course, and I always ended up watching your videos whenever I was going through a rough time. For quite a few years (even before I started my higher-education journey in earnest), I've had this self-inflicted pressure placed upon me to be as developed skill-wise and professionally as I could be, hoping to prove to people that I was capable of doing something with myself and be able to support myself with a stable income. (I also suffer from depression and very likely have some form of ADHD, and it's given me something of a poor self image regarding my productivity and how that ties into my self-worth.) As you can imagine this hyper-perfectionism was literally the opposite of what I needed to grow as an artist. It got to the point that at the end of 2022 I ended up having a bit of a nervous breakdown, and had to exorcise a few personal demons in order to move past it. I'm also a trans-woman, and a key part of that has been starting to live truer to who I am rather than forcing myself to into being someone I am not for the sake of being more of a "man" like I did before I came out. And I think this video has made me realise just how backwards I've been approaching my art journey in contrast to how being truer to myself during my transition has made me happier in other areas of my life. Even now a voice in the back of my head is saying that this comment isn't in the perfect state worthy of sharing, but I'm not going to listen to that anymore. So thank you for all you do, Adam. I'm feeling just that little bit more confident in being myself as an artist, and I'm gonna try and keep growing that confidence further.

[@abysmallytall]

It is remarkable how much your observations and advice can readily apply to so many other fields where your craft matters to you deeply both as an income as an integral part of your self-image. - a programmer that doodles sometimes

[@bravecastle3352]

I got very emotional and when I cried, I knew I needed to watch this video. Thanks.

[@simeongalda5988]

Well spoken

[@naomihunter7749]

This video means a lot to me, Adam, as I'm sure it does many other people (judging by the comments), thank you so much. I've been thinking about this a lot. It's difficult to trust myself, to not second guess myself. This is a nice reminder of what's important, of what to focus on, to try and accept ourselves. In the past year I've found so much more joy in my art, simply following my passions, following what I love, and ignoring what everyone else wants or expects. I don't really care if it leads to financial success in truth, I'm happy to create and express.

[@alexmonroy1986]

I have been contemplating for the past few weeks leading up to my third year in college as an Art Major. Constantly I'm thinking about whether or not I should pursue my desire to mastering my hand in drawing or if I should choose a professional career that is "more commendable" by society and the standards placed on success as a whole. My mind has been relentlessly on edge. I have put so much time, effort, and preparation into executing my goals as effectively as possible, and yet, I'm still afraid. Afraid of what people might think of me, of my career choice, of my succeses/failures it's consuming at times. But, more to the point, your videos have always helped in clearing the cluttered storm of doubt and insecurities that reside in my mind. I cannot express in words how much your videos have changed my outlook on art, life, and on humanity as a whole. Thank you.

[@Tabaluka777]

Adam I just want to give you a big hug.

[@sarahm5872]

Adam, please know that you are a valued person! Your videos are what helped me to decide to forge my own path. Before, I used to think that I have to throw away myself in order fit in with the studios' art style (I was a student at that time). I was really stressed out building and rebuilding my portfolio, applying for jobs, and didn't get any offers that at some point in time I forgot who I was. Your videos helped pulled me back and made me rethink about what I truly want. Right now, I have a side job (I'm working on becoming an art teacher) while working at my web comic. Not gonna lie choosing this path for myself is scary for me because I've been conditioned to think to create a portfolio and apply for jobs or that I'm missing out of my career. However I am very happy with the decision that I made because what I truly wanted was to fully explore aspects of myself; connect with people and express that into stories. The web comic is still in the beginning phases so I'll update you in a couple more years ;). Thank you for everything Adam.

[@phoegon12]

Thanks Adam for this video. Your videos have help immensely recently. I’ve been facing some hardships that definitely make me want to quit and pursue other venues of expression/ career options. And even though I may have to divert a little down those paths I can’t stop making art. Art has become more of an identity for me. I’ve had many ask why don’t you just stop and give up? Most of the time my answer is how can I stop. If someone else managed to make it work why can’t I? And if no one has maybe I can be the first.

[@Shaun.is.typing]

Thank you 🙏

[@airametur]

Eu não consigo parar de fazer arte, eu já tentei. Quando bateu pela primeira vez que eu não ia conseguir sobreviver de arte eu lutei bastante pra seguir e investir em outra coisa, entrei em outro ramo e consegui outros empregos diferentes mas no final eu sempre voltava a fazer arte, mesmo pra passar o tempo, ou porque o que eu fazia durante o meu dia me inspirava a criar, eu só não tenho como abandonar isso, é como matar uma parte muito humana de mim.

[@rocketbird1]

Every part of you makes you the person you are. Don't rip apart this part of you, cherish it always!

[@kevintan5976]

adam practice one of the greatest quote in anime culture " i have no enemies" and it works

[@KindaCarolin]

I'll admit that I didn't pay attention through the whole talk but bits and pieces stuck with me. I don't have to prove who I am or what I'm worth to others as an employee, as a creative, or as a person. I shouldn't be allowing other peoples' judgement to affect how I feel about myself and what I want to accomplish with the time I have. Thank you for putting words to how being myself is enough.

[@stories8901]

When art meets philosophy, it produces magical, unimaginable art❤️

[@VoidWimp]

Don't cry Adam 😭 you make my cry too

[@AdamDuffArt]

:(

[@amiellito]

Damn, I didn't think I needed this video right now.

[@igormenil6047]

The truly strong are kind - Soho Takuan. This video made me think of this

[@SleepyRulu]

I relate to keep going despite being older going back to art after watching vtubers like ina pushes me to go back art. During this transition its hard constantly being told to quit or undermine by age since “you dont draw in your age”. I kept going despite these things happen feel free to expressed my inner self but still dealing with insecurities with my art and doubt but push through it.

[@ArtByHazel]

Thank you Adam for sharing your wisdom with us all who are doing our best and sometimes feel like our good isn’t good enough. I am learning to accept the whole process is filled with challenges and it’s extra challenging when you’re sensitive to almost everything inside and out. Having to deal with ADHD & depression can be difficult in most days even if you want to get things done or want to paint. I’m beginning to accept this experience without judging myself when days feels like climbing Mt. Everest with a backpack filled with rocks. Being hypervigilant all of my life wasn’t a fun experience especially when you’re teased by your peers who are ignorant about what your struggles. To everyone who’s going through a challenging time. I see you. I feel you. You’re not alone. Accepting our vulnerable moments is better than fighting against what society is trying to make us do when our mind/body/soul is screaming rest. It’s okay to not be productive all the time. The creative process has its ebbs and flows. Much gratitude from a fella Montrealer. 🙏🏼 Take care everyone. 🩷🌎🧿😃⚡️

[@ch_boki]

Thank you.

[@mikxl2352]

I find myself asking the same question a lot of times, haha. I'm a very weak person, saying this just to avoid the usual self-loathing addiction I have so I don't end up calling myself a "loser" for the millionth time, and so... I give up very easily on lots of things when they don't immediately go my way. I'm also contradictory, despite the self-disdain and low confidence, I'm painfully arrogant and have an almost blind belief in my capabilities. That, all of my losses are a result of "Not working hard enough" and not because I'm lacking the talent or opportunity, I'm always demanding myself to be the best despite being afraid of giving my best, goddamn hypocrite am I right? As such... in very chaotic times, I found out I wanted to make art. All for selfish reasons, but also, because it's the only thing I've found myself enjoying and envisioning a future with. I've given up on tons of things, including writing which I used to love so much, but... No matter how hard I beat myself down, no matter how bad the experiences get, I'm always finding myself back to art. I'm an envious, ridiculous hypocritical manchild, I feel I have no qualities to speak of, but if there's one thing I like and that I want to keep a hold of for eternity, it'd be my passion for art. I'm still bad, and I will keep being bad for a while, but that idea of the future where I became the image I'm holding gives me strength to keep going.

[@doggowastakentechsupport3574]

I dont know what you did, but these talks motivated me to fire the starting shot for my art. First thing now is to to a 30day challenge.

[@belenshini]

I don't think I've written before in this channel, but I've been lurking for a while now, and let me tell you that every time I listen to one of your talks, it feels like a safe space. I am in a really hard moment in my life, I quit art school after going half way through, I'm battling (or learning to live with) a form of depression (persistent depressive disorder) and I'm trying to find my own voice, what should I say to all the people who have watched my videos and have made the decision to study after watching them, I feel that huge weight of responsibility you were talking about, and then it clicked, I wasn't happy there because that wasn't my art, it was a way to prove my worth and my talent. I've been in therapy finding who I am, and I hope I can build a community that sees me for who I am and for that to be enough. Thank you so much, Seeing you realize your importance, I realized mine. And you are INCREDIBLY important ❤ thank you from Chile 🇨🇱

[@lizzelloart]

Full confession. I don’t watch your videos. I listen to your voice. You could give these same talks wearing a clown suit and it wouldn’t change how much I value your talks.

[@colourmequaint9690]

Oh Adam.. hugs!

[@glr_creations]

Thank you

[@razorback7828]

There is a french artist who recently played a lot with her appearence, Yseult. I recommand you to have a look. Thanks again for your words. To be selfconfident and to return to the source of our inside is the best thing to do to clarify your thought, stop being stressed and be creative again. By luck I also found a video about David Lynch and all that he said about art and depression, and it is so true. Being in doubt don't helps you to be creative.

[@shintasei]

Adam please show us your fashion stages while growing up

[@Kyattsu]

These deeply personal, compassionate videos of yours are my absolute favorite --they are truly inspiring to urge me to continue to make myself a better, authentic version of myself, whether it's in the context of me as an artist or just as a person. Thank you, Adam, for allowing yourself to be so vulnerable, so real and true. I appreciate you.

[@artprentice877]

"Know thyself" is very similar to my personal mantra in many regards which is " Perception is reality". Whatever you think, your mind makes real, there are no disconnects with your perceived self and your self. You're mind will align itself with your beliefs and often subconsciously. You do not have to tell yourself too many times you are worthless before your default mode of thought is so. To believe someone has ill intent or is being confrontational is to make it a reality. stepping back and catching those cognitive dissonances is incredibly jarring, but really feels like you jumped to a different reality or dimension sometimes. This even applies to emotions and stress. Ruminating on some past event with certain emotions or stresses will cause those events to elicit those emotions almost like storing them in a box. Then when an event is encountered or thought back on the box will open all those thoughts, feelings, and stresses, literally without asking. I used to have crippling panic attacks some years ago and for me it was always this function of the mind that was the culprit. Recoding those functions, is very difficult sometimes. But to catch them, before they are stored, is much easier. Though it is a constant effort. I want to preface that I am in no way an authority on these matters, and hope these words are not read as pontificating. I really don't know why I posted this comment but I feel as though this video helped reinforce my own mantra in many ways, which without getting too personal is probably the reason I'm still here. I'm sorry to hear you are having some health obstacles Adam (I don't like the phrase health issues), wishing you all the best, and thanks for the message. You make it much easier for this random guy you don't know to continue working on his passion.

[@loispenrod2667]

Sorry I did not watch the video cause wasn't sure if it would go against these thoughts. Had to bring this up and share, Adam,by your title you gave video I recently wanted to quit in my drawing cause after so long it taught me a spiritually awakening message on how I actually wanted my life to be to fix it. Not that I dont believe in art anymore, I think Art is one of the greatest teachers however we go about it. Art had made me see to stop and think from a subconscious to conscious level of thinking. There is nothing wrong with subconscious its just how you want to go about with life. Please let know if video does not have anything to do with quite.

[@MarketResearchReading114]

I have medication related aphantasia, its pretty freaking tough knowing how skilled I was in school, but its a interesting challenge. Not sure if I can get a career going, but its come to the point where I'm fed up not doing it just because its hard.

[@vamrack8344]

There's time and time again when ive wanted to quit art. There's still abit of me that wants to. But a bigger portion doesn't because i love art so much. But it's frustrating when im making art that's not good to me and then im too tired to draw and shits it's basically a whole damn struggle.

[@theereriotaku1790]

I almost went down the wrong path in my life, but circumstances pushed me back on track again. I thought i wanted to do something else but during my final year at school i descovered that I loved design and visual development. What i originally wanted to be (Marine biologist) was a struggle to do, i had to force myself to listen to interviews and read things that family reccomended, it wasnt fun.. Now, I listen to interviews with vis dev artists all the time, just cause i'm interested, i worked on my own stuff for my personal project at college and got so invested I finished earlier than (most) my classmates, and started working on other stuff immedatly afterwards. I feel like if you have to force yourself to do something all the time, it might not be for you. This is just my experience tho

[@thiccada]

On the bright side, if my molecular biology degree is anything to go by, you're gonna have as little luck searching for bio jobs as art jobs lmao.

[@jhuh24]

Hey If you go to see the new Spiderverse can you let us know what you think about it. I think it is a great example of choosing passion and storytelling over some constraints. And they incorporated some traditional abstract art into it as well. I think it would be a good conversation piece to talk about.

[@AdamDuffArt]

I’m actually planning on seeing that in the theatre with Lucas soon - I can’t wait to see it.

[@RedGallardo]

It feels kinda wrong to be relieved by the fact many people suffer, not just me. A joy of a sadist? Kidding. But yeah, the struggle is way too familiar. And... not all of us have someone to talk to. About anything. Imagine having to fight alone. Like a nightmare where you can't scream. Only it won't end for years.

[@cweasegaming2692]

I'm just about to finish a 2 year college program for IT Programming. At the end of it now, I can say it was a mistake in a sense, because now I'm going back to pursuing art because I'm miserable. Edit: I'm 28, it's never too late

[@kareemburke9212]

Hi Adam, I really enjoy your content, but I miss your artbook reviews.

[@PixelCollie]

i wish i coud become successful someday but its just really hopeless, nothing anyone has said has helped me, and i cant help myself when i have no money

[@Weird_Quests]

I know this may have been asked by a million people by now, but what resources (books, courses online, KZbin vids, sites) would you recommend for someone to learn the fundamentals of digital art? So they can begin progressing and doing concept art and finding their own style. I’m a writer and narrative designer by trade and want to learn and become proficient (albeit not a master) at digital art so I can create artwork to exist alongside my writing work - and I love lovecraftian horror and such too!

[@dplj4428]

@DanyalFryer Are you asking Adam about advancing your technical skills? From you, tonight i am just learning of “narrative” writing. I’ll revisit your videos later. Thank you for sharing. I am an artist who loves writing, grew up with comics of the 1970s, then put them away. Crushed by the hype that “adults” have to put away childish things. One of the happiest days was when I discovered graphic novels. And then the question: Are they really separate, writing and art? I haven’t explored 3d digital art yet. My all around favorite is ImagineFX (magazine, print or via Apple News app) because of artist interviews, software and hardware reviews, professional and aspiring artists, and they cover all aspects of digital art (2d and 3d) including character design and concept art. On KZbin, I include film making, photography, and script writing in my searches. After a while, I started taking notes from observation of dance, music videos, movie trailers, and public speakers/storytellers. Are you asking about technical skills, specialization in one or the other? Maybe you’re choice is hampered by seeing visual art as separate from writing? For some people it’s true. Maybe not for you? - For me, they are the same creature: Storytelling. I cannot do an illustration without its story, even if only by a title or caption. I cannot read, hear people, watch a movie or listen to music without being inspired to do one or both. Sometimes even while I experience those things. Interviews here and elsewhere of these creators are very informative and inspiring. Maybe one day, I’ll go public with my stuff on social media. Meanwhile, still trying to learn how to row my life boat.

[@Weird_Quests]

@@dplj4428 it’s less about the storytelling or creative aspect for me - it’s more the functional skills and fundamentals of doing the art I see in my head if that makes sense?

[@sally-annllewellynartist9362]

I swear you're psychic lol

[@uurhelo]

because some do art for living while some do art to live

[@FayN_]

like hell i could afford to quit. art is the only thing i good at (even though it's not as good as pro artist) and if i quit i would be dead on the streat cuz i can't do anything else

[@hammerandthewrench7924]

Mainly because with such a large dong, and my fellow brothers knows about this, it's hard to do physical activity, like running or running...the weight makes my back hurt. So I sit down a lot and drawing is the only thing that helps keep me entertained while I work. While making art for a living would be fun; I'm not there yet. And even if "Splenda Brain" takes over the art world; I will find my way. My way ain't any other way. Copium isn't my way; copium is staying in a relationship you know ain't it. Copium is trying to to stay or trying to find a reason to stay; I can't trying to stay no where; art goes with me. Period. If you put my lines, strokes, and ideas into your Beep Boop simulator, you lose out on the true experience. Eventually, while corporate ruins everything (which i think they have already); what you do on your own can only be uplifted more. Perioddddddt. 👏👏👏👏👏

[@danielanairnalayza6983]

We have nothing else in the world TOT

[@ryzhiialen]

Because it's the only thing I know how to do at least a little in this life. I still can't afford literally anything but the minimum, but at least it's not starvation under the bridge.

[@asyrel6900]

i wish i could afford your mentorship

[@AyaKun2040]

ther problem is ppl tells you you arent successful according to your likes, for example im successul AF earning dollars in mexico doing my yuri comics that is what i most love but then they think im a loser a mediocre by not wanting likes and millions of viewers xd i have my underground webcomic, and im fine with it, it would be annoying otherwise xdddd

[@jamesbinks7380]

This video came out at a perfect moment for me . Today I just posted on instagram "send me the weirdest ideas you can come up with and I'll slam it onto an A2 illustration" and oh boy did I get what I asked for !!😂 For context I got diagnosed with autism at 26 and I turned 27 yesterday and for me I'm really starting to get bored of hiding. Feel free to reply some dumb ideas here and I'll try fit them in ,I'm having a ball !!!!😂 Big thanks Adam !!

[@dplj4428]

@AdamDuffArt I think the unapologetically @RemiWolf song maybe is titled “Prescription”? And this is her speaking about the background of an earlier song kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6PWgWV6jdlmlcU

[@reneklassen]

You look very good for 47. Same age as my dad but he eats more 😆

[@esbeng.s.a9761]

Adam, you talked about a singer your daughter and you liked, what is the singer's name?

[@lucycannon6732]

The singer is Remi Wolf.

[@martianmercenary9880]

Why haven’t you done a video about Elden Ring yet? ☺️✌🏻