Social Media Is Killing Your Motivation - Know The Warning Signs

#artpodcast #aiart #professionalartist #socialmediaforartists
-
Interested in the LUCIDPIXUL PRIVATE ART MENTORSHIP? Please visit:
www.lucidpixul.com/
-
Join me on ArtStation!
www.artstation.com/adamduff
------------
ART KZbinRS you need to check out!
- Tyler Edlin
- Hardy Fowler
- Brushboost (Marc Brunet)
- Trent Kaniuga
- Marco Bucci
- Ergojosh
- BoroCG (Borodante)
- Light Ponderings
- Ahmed Aldoori
- Kelsey Rodriguez
- Ethan Becker
- Sinix
- Swatches (Clint Cearley)
- Istebrak
- ArtWOD (Antonio Stappaerts)
- David Finch
- Online Art Academy
- Victor Staris
- ctrlpaint.com
- DrawMixPaint
- Proko
- Mohammed Agabadi
- Jordan Grimmer
- J hill
- Lilys Illustration
- The Art Mentor
- Alankou (Spanish)
- Chroma MoMA
- Imad Awan
- MewTripled
- NIRO
- Myriam Tillson
- Ofei Draws
- Dave Greco
- Nia Tora
- What I’ve Learned In Art
- Conceptual Ink Academy
- Angrymikko
- [INSERT ART]
- Christophe Young
- Irlander Illustrations
-
PAINTING APPS USED IN THIS VIDEO:
- ArtStudio Pro (iPad Pro)
- Photoshop (Desktop)
-----------
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
------------
VIDEO RESOURCES
All video motion graphics, intros and transitions are produced by MotionVFX
www.motionvfx.com
--------------
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

[@stalinir4678]

I've stopped chasing social media and have started painting for my colleagues as a learning process. Instant peace and satisfaction when they meet, discuss and thank me IN PERSON. This was something I never knew I needed.

[@AdamDuffArt]

I’m very happy to oblige :)

[@survivor_of_the_ashes]

Respect.

[@doriangreg1601]

I dont really have a lot of friends IRL to do that for, but I started posting art in tiktok for mutuals in mind not followers, and I find that doing art trades with them or just randomly drawing fanart of their original characters to send to them and see their reaction brings me so much more joy than I thought it would!

[@stalinir4678]

@@doriangreg1601 Good to hear that , dear fellow artist . Art trades are a wonderful form of communication.

[@jacksirkett]

These are words that every artist needs to hear at the moment. After chasing followers and likes for a few years now with my art I've recently reached a breaking point with it. Recently I zoomed out and realised that I've been making work FOR social media, rather than making work which genuinely makes me happy. What is art if it's created solely to rake in likes and followers? It isn't authentic. It doesn't contain your essence. The most important thing is to make art for yourself. This is the way that you'll find a career that's truly rewarding. Maybe you'll make a lot more money by playing the game of social media, but it won't guarantee a career where you're truly satisfied with your body of work. I've now taken a step back and am trying to find a way to still use social media as a tool for promotion whilst making sure that the work comes first. However, this is easier said than done in a world where this stuff is all-consuming. If anyone else has thoughts on how they're navigating this let me know! Thanks a lot for putting this out Adam. Incredible stuff.

[@AdamDuffArt]

No Jack, thank YOU so much for sharing that - honestly, everything you’re sharing here is so valuable to the conversation, I really appreciate it.

[@crunchycrispychip3266]

I have a horrible habit of comparing my art to people younger than me who are better. Social media has just exacerbated the issue and has killed all my motivation.

[@pixelboss4980]

You've got this

[@MasterOfDoK]

Me too, and I wish we can fix that.

[@MrGolibroda]

They may have skill, but your greatest strength are experiences they lack.

[@whoartyou9777]

We also forget the part that most of the stuff we see online are only the good parts of someones life (their best artworks). We don't usually see the fails and thousands of drawings and hours that go into making things and improving and that can be very overwhelming. I myself realised that when I take breaks from looking up art on social media it really helps my soul to connect with myself more then trying to connect with what others expect of me :( thank you for the video as always :)

[@catheroldart]

Once again your art talks come in at the right time. I literally had the thought "I'm so tired of fighting for my art to be seen" right before I opened up my browser and fired up KZbin to find something to listen to during my Sunday sketch session. Thank you for speaking the words I needed to hear!

[@AdamDuffArt]

You’ve made my day, thank you :)

[@luciluziel2946]

Dang, this hits home veery hard hahaha I've always liked doing things using just black and white, no colors, no render, just some hatching and gray tones. But everything I see on social media it's just these fully rendered, fully colored, 1000 colors drawings. What I love doing is more simple and direct. For the past 4 years (I've started drawing seriously in 2019) I've been trying to learn render, trying to learn color, trying to be like them, the amazing artists out there... And you know what? I did, I learned it, but the stress was so much to me that at one point I stopped drawing for 8 months, because I could feel it was not at my core, it was not who I was. I was forcing this image upon myself, and the damage to my mind back there is still hurting till this day. I'll definitely take what you said to heart, and just do it for me, because if I can do what I don't like and hate it, I might as well take a shot on what I actully love and want to do, even if it is hard at the beginning :)! (Jim Carry said something along these lines hahaha) Adam, from the bottom of my heart and soul... Thank you! I mean it. Great, now I'm tearing up LOL Edit: spelling mistakes hehehe

[@AdamDuffArt]

wow, well thank you for that very heartfelt message Luci - I’m taking everything you said to heart

[@jamie199208]

Thankyou Adam, really struggling with motivation with the seemingly unavoidable influence of social media and feelings of self worth. This is healing for the soul.

[@Fumei-arts]

I struggle with my social media growth , and i havent reached a thousand followers on instagram in the past 7 years. Yet I still grabbed my balls and applied for an internship at a indie game studio, and to my suprise I was accepted and it was the best experience i have ever had with any of my past jobs. My skills were appreciated and critized. I am 24 years old and if I can do it any of you can! Thx Adam for your encouraging words!

[@AdamDuffArt]

Man, what an amazing story Fumei, and I’m so happy that you gathered the courage to take a chance even though you must have been a bit anxious about that. I just hope that you let your balls go before the meeting - that doesn’t always look good to employers ;)

[@Fumei-arts]

@@AdamDuffArt I’m wheezing 😭

[@Julez60]

I landed my dream job in my art career and social media had nothing to with it. My portfolio did. The world is bigger than social media. it's not the be all end all to your art being successful. Edit: don't chase likes and follows and end up making work for social media. work on subjects and things you love to develop your skills and portfolio.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well said, I couldn’t agree more Julez

[@CoreyArt]

I dont normally respond to videos very often but this one hit me in a strong way. Incredible message, really inspiring. And Im already someone who works professionally but that doesnt mean the fight is over or how you feel about yourself and your own art.

[@dplj4428]

I think Kesh said it best. He decided that his personally most satisfying art is not the content created for social media. Content does not equal art. A different purpose in one’s headspace.

[@DavvyKat]

18:50 This is the mindset I am striving for. I don't want to care so much about the algorithm and the number of likes that I get. I just want to find a place for me to share my art without caring so much about the stats and number of followers and all that crap. I only use social media and KZbin as a way for me to get exposure for my work without caring so much about the numbers. Sure it can be very tempting to keep up with the competition. But you know what, I don't care about that anymore. I just want to post my work just for fun without caring too much about the algorithm, as long as people find my work.

[@AdamDuffArt]

1000% yes - of course, we’ll all have our good days and our bad ones, but generally speaking, you should work with a feeling of confidence and inspiration.

[@alfredmanzano680]

This is so true for me. I actually had to avoid social media altogether to stop looking at the daily amazement and just get used to sitting with just myself for a while, it’s been months now since I scrolled through any feed and it honestly feels great. 🙌🏼

[@AdamDuffArt]

It does doesn’t it - when you walk back into it you immediately feel the impact of it, like walking out of an air-conditioned house into a heat wave.

[@kayjayt8607]

"Daily amazement". I think that is a perfect way to describe the kind of content that people may typically consume on social media. They may see and become enticed by something that seems extravagant, flashy, energetic, or innovative and try to replicate that in their own lives. However, if people cannot do so or are unable to connect with the material as well while trying to do it themselves, they may feel like something is wrong with them. When you decide to focus less on what other people are doing on social media, you may be able to better contemplate what matters and what you find most fulfilling as an individual. That is something that I have struggled with constantly.

[@alfredmanzano680]

@@AdamDuffArt excellent description lol

[@rapasdecoeur7017]

I'm glad you talked about Healthygamer. I owe a lot of my growth to Dr.K and you !

[@AdamDuffArt]

He’s really awesome - between him and How To ADHD, I get a ton of insight there alone - but there are tons of amazing resources.

[@GalidorDragon]

I have no words to describe how grateful I am to you for this video. Today I was telling a friend I didn't know who I was anymore in terms of my art. I try to be everything to be seen, then realize I lost what I truly enjoyed, which was drawing dragons. So I am going back to it after years of just trying to create work for an updated portfolio in order to get hired as a concept artist, which is another can of worms. I will get back to making tutorials because I love teaching, and I will not just draw what I "have to" in order to get hired. Thank you for your encouraging words.

[@fivethirty56]

Just subbed! I've got a lot of hangups on learning to draw, but my wife makes awesome art and I act as a reference finder, quality check, and general like- art buddy to her works in ways she claims is super super important / drives her art to the next level. More of a writer by peer pressure- I'm hoping to wade back into art since 10 some odd years ago with something I love )also dragons) I can breach that issue of what I see in my head versus what I can do within my ability at this time- more motor than anything. Cheering you on and I hope I don't come across badly - I'm really excited for your works to come and your story speaks to my wife's experience as well as my own in terms of repressing what brings joy. Do your best! Don't rush- and no pressure. I hope to learn a lot from you as I try to figure this out.

[@GalidorDragon]

@@fivethirty56 thank you so much! I really hope my videos help, I wish something like that existed when I was younger, because I self taught myself to draw them and it took a long time, but the things that make us happy when we create, should be cultivated!

[@gijis02]

“Two likes, one is your mom, and the other is a bot” 😂😭😂 that hit REAL hard. Thank you for these videos. My soul needed this.

[@yukinotdoit]

thank you for this message, it helps young artist like me

[@AdamDuffArt]

You’re the reason I make them in the first place :)

[@monkeivais]

Honestly we need more people like you here on youtube. This video is honest and truly inspiring. Thanks.

[@alexlamia9946]

Thank you so much for this video. I’ve been struggling and lacking motivation, and this is something I really needed to hear. I am in tears, feeling relief. I’ve been told a lot, especially here lately, that I’m “wasting my talent”, because I don’t have an art career. Some people just don’t realize how difficult it is, and they don’t realize how hurtful that is for me to hear. There was a short time where I thought about giving up, but art is a part of me, and it brings me joy. And that’s not a waste. My grandfather was an artist, and we would have art talks. Sometimes, we would draw together. He passed in 2017, and it’s still very difficult without him. But watching your videos has helped me feel better and less alone when it comes to art. So, thank you for everything you create.

[@lizzelloart]

If I’ve ever watched less than your whole video, it’s because real life made me stop and I will continue it later that night or the next or the next. Anyone who will listen to you for 15 mins will listen to you for 60 minutes. ❤❤

[@yourtravelartist]

Right before I started sharing my artwork this year, I wrote on a post it note, “I want to monetize my f****** art. F*** the algorithm. It doesn’t matter if anyone “likes” my art... I like my art.” Thank you, sir. Thank you for being you and sharing yourself. ❤

[@hurtcore2374]

this is so real!!! i had a 1-on-1 mentorship last year and he told me that my work is good enough to get hired in different studios. i was so surprised and got so emotional during our call. man, social media really warps people's minds! (btw, I love your contents! keep it up, sir!)

[@kirstenkateline]

Thank you so much for making this video, Adam. This was exactly what I needed to hear just as I'm struggling with my disappointment for not gaining traction after starting my KZbin channel about a month ago. I was seriously contemplating changing my topic and style to try and chase the algorithm. But you convinced me to stay true to myself and my initial vision. I am so happy there are authentic people like you to help struggling artists stay motivated. Thank you!

[@AdamDuffArt]

Your reply completely validates why I produced this video in the first place - thank you so much Kirsten :)

[@kayowpi]

Just in time for my drawing session today ! Thanks always for the guide and wisdom

[@AdamDuffArt]

That means you’re my official drawing partner today, I’m having fun on a piece as well :)

[@freezy4817]

I know you

[@kayowpi]

@@freezy4817 LMAOAOAOA

[@mojoryse7836]

thank you adam, i was doing a sketch study along to this, and authenticity is always one of the most important virtues to me. but i find myself being pulled into the traps that stem from posting art on social media. this helped me look outside myself and just be real, so thank you ❤

[@AdamDuffArt]

Hey, I totally get that. Like I said at the beginning, social media isn’t all evil, if you have the will power to navigate the tsunami of crap that comes along with it. In the end, whether you learn now or later, what you’re saying today about being authentic is what will matter the most in the long run.

[@AnaCarolina-nd2bc]

I've just found this channel after a tentative search during a bad case of depressive thoughts about my art. I love your content and how soothing and grounding it is. And please don't take this the wrong way, but I found it fascinating how the artwork you are drawing while talking to us looks so scary and dark ( to me ) while your voice and message is so calming, warm, comforting. I think I've just realized understanding people can be even harder than understanding art.

[@mattweels]

So much truth my man... I really needed that video but I didn't really know until now. Social media has been killing me slowly, and I was not paying attention... thank you for that, and all the consideration you have with your followers, that's really special.

[@NeroCrucible]

I remember feeling this long ago first time I saw high quality 3d models for like less than $10, it was so demoralizing at the time

[@Istebrak]

Great work Adam! I just covered this too in my art block video. I completely agree with you. We all need to talk about this.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Oh really! I’ll go check it out - and 100% yes, you need me, I got your back :)

[@faridaseyam9817]

thank you Adam, this couldn't have come at a more accurate time. I really lost my ability to judge my own art, and I have been severely burned out and disappointed. I forgot why I wanted to be an artist in the first place. It was nice to hear this.

[@AdamDuffArt]

You aren’t alone in feeling that - it’s a hard feeling to fight, but rest assured pushing through that is entirely worth it - even when it feels tough as hell.

[@the4rcanist]

This was one of the best videos I've seen this week, I'm used to say that SM doesn't get a hold of me that easily but that "When I say their work looks amazing they're awestruck because they're used yo compare to what they see in social media" it hit true

[@elindis]

This is a very important message. Being constantly exposed to the top 0.01% of everything all the time is just poisonous to people. There is a lot of art out there, but the online landscape is just not representative of the state of the craft. Our perception of art has changed more than the reality of art has. For those of you who are constantly online - and I am among you - we have to interact in the real world in order to be healthy. Social media is a health hazard.

[@joaocardoletto]

I’m so glad someone touched this subject. Social media can obliterate artistic motivation in such a gradual way that when you realize the damages it may be too late. My results on social media were always awful. According to social media results I should’t even be surviving as an artist. But the thing is, I never had problem finding jobs in the industry. My professional career is a constant evolution,both in art quality and wages. Even though I am an experienced artist, the weight of being bombarded by masterpieces everyday got so overwhelming that I saw myself on the verge of giving up. In my case, social media had to go. I quit facebook, instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, deleted all apps. Nowadays I only use LinkedIn, but don’t leisurely scroll the timeline, I just follow companies and producers. I’m happier. Instead of social media rat race, on my free time I engage on creative activities like writing, storyboarding and life drawing sessions. I post everything on my personal portfolio website, get feedback from my colleagues, supervisors, clients and that’s it. Don’t let social media suck your soul. Looking for inspiration is good, but if you get to the point of “why bother”, it is time to stop. Thanks for this video!

[@AdamDuffArt]

Damn, you have more will power than most of us. It’s not easy doing what you did, but I’m very curious to know how this has changed things for you. FYI - LinkedIn isn’t great either - I just had a session with one of my students who told me that LinkedIN was really getting her down because there’s a lot of AI drama going on there - so be careful there as well. Overall, the only thing that matters is your health, inspiration and most of all - not giving up.

[@SlayDelReyyy]

Thank you for your long videos!!! I love putting on your voice in the back while drawing💖

[@AdamDuffArt]

That’s all I needed to hear, thank you.

[@Laghrian]

I am in this point, seeing everyone better than me makes me just want to cry.

[@vough9542]

I love getting these type of videos, it helps with my stress in a way, it is soothing.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Consider these videos an homage to the KZbinrs I listen to when painting

[@vough9542]

@@AdamDuffArt An hour feels like 5 mins when I'm listening to you while drawing. It kinda pushes me forward to completing a comic page. I love your videos, sir!

[@teemolebeemo4369]

A couple of weeks ago I decided I wouldn't draw anymore, because anything I made was made for something, trying to be someone, trying to duplicate others. I have forgotten who I am and what I like. I can't make anymore because I really don't know what I want to create. I've numbed down that feeling so much that I now need a lot of time to regain that integrity. This video was an amazing journey. It really hit me and I am a little bit more hopeful now. Thanks Adam!

[@nataszaholowatinc2556]

You probably don't realize how many lives you save by doing these talks. I've been a hermit artist for forty four years, am homeless now. I had to come to terms with the fact that no one will see my work, its ok. I have a beautiful portfolio, not as complete as I would like it to be, but the ideas were communicated in a simple and unique way. I just had to see it and you helped me to do that today. Thank you.

[@survivor_of_the_ashes]

If you have a partner who's constantly telling you what you're doing wrong, you start being unable to rely on your opinion of yourself. This is literally my story, been that way for years now, until I quite recently decided to face my fear of loneliness and break up with her. Yes, the loneliness is difficult sometimes, but at least I'm not sensing ghostly figures around my bed anymore, I'm starting to feel a bit sane, and start to love myself a bit more everyday, instead of hating myself like a masochist. I shouldn't need a reason to love myself, it's my birthright. Thank you so much for what you do, Adam, I'm so glad you exist. I'm looking forward to being your student.

[@VeraGolosovaArt]

I almost cried at some point listening to you talk, thank you for the video and sharing life values, Adam. I genuinely feel the same, but I have a tendency to shut myself and just don't express myself online. But if we have more voices, we will be heard by more people. So thank you!

[@shadowolf7wx154]

Hay Adam its Brandon Green (that military furry guy who did one Consultation with you) this is my alt I watch you on. Anyway just wanted to say, thank you for the words. It’ being pretty and all just is hard being away from old friends. I thankfully trusted your word on one of your videos for getting a iPad as was looking at alternatives for a drawing tablet. (also being a nerd for anything tech related too so). Anyway ya you kinda helped me be myself. Still allowing me to draw digitally, as I just prefer the media it’s, convenient. Besides that keep being you and thank you for being a continued motivation and inspiration for me.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Holy shot Brandon, it’s awesome to hear from you again! I’m also happy that you pulled the trigger on the iPad - I love mine - rumour has it a bigger one might come out - 15 or 16 inches, which is a very meaningful upgrade (fingers crossed)

[@dprincenj]

Simply, thank you. This was the message I needed to hear as an artist struggling with social media addiction

[@SticksNJones]

These videos always seem to come at the right time, been dealing with the AI comparison problem myself and have this nagging feeling of quitting. Thanks for helping me articulate what I'm feeling.

[@AdamDuffArt]

It affects so many of us. I have been using it a bit to help research art and gather quick references, but I keep my second eye shifted to the side, keeping an eye out for fishy business.

[@Chromey]

Stay consistent and put yourself in all of your work, well said Adam.. Thank you

[@AdamDuffArt]

You’re very welcome Chromey

[@v4nnyz]

Around the 24:58 mark when you said "Understand that that has nothing to do with how good you are as an artist - at least not over the long term - it has to do with how much of you is in your work", it reminded me a lot about what Ask Polly (Heather Havrilesky) writes in her advice column. About staying open and honest to yourself, and specifically the reminder to not take everything personally. That's the shit that keeps me going. All my life I've taken things personally - in the sense that if people are mean to me, maybe it's my fault, or i made something awkward, this and that. When I was younger, I was addicted to chasing fame on social media and I kept trying so hard. If people didn't like my work or never commented or liked or acknowledged me, I took it hard and I took it personally. I was obsessed with fame at that point in my life, but also I was struggling with mental health and bullying and lack of validation from the people whom I thought I wanted it from. Years later and I've finally realised that Polly is right, about not taking it personally. This shit's an algorithm, if people don't reply or don't acknowledge me or something, it's not necessarily my fault. Maybe they had a bad day, they can't reply at the moment, or maybe they just don't want to for whatever reason, they're entitled to that. The only thing I can do is let myself feel the things I need to feel, but not take it as a personal attack or proof that I'm too horrendously flawed as a person to function. It's so hard trying to be better to yourself, but learning to accept myself more and to actively and consciously STOP blaming myself for every single thing helped immensely. Even years later I struggle a little bit but when I can overcome it bit by bit, that's the best feeling. I don't think I'm forgetting my clout chasing phase anytime soon, because as early as it happened and as terrible as it was because of grooming and bullying, it taught me a lot of valuable lessons about how to be a person in the world. What I value, who I value, why I make things, why I just keep doing whatever I do. Your videos and Ask Polly and so many things help me keep going and to remember that I'm young, and patience is crucial. I'm here for the ride, not the destination. Thanks for putting out the stuff you do, I love listening to your experiences and your words.

[@pltrempe]

You have been heard once more ;) Always a pure pleasure to listen to you, you've helped me once again to find inner strength. Bless you

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well thank you my friend :)

[@AlxD03]

These videos are always soothing to listen

[@AdamDuffArt]

Why thank you :)

[@JustTheManWho]

Ok, look, I think I am feeling extra tender today and I just discovered your channel and everything you're saying seems to be the right balm for the right wound, so you're getting ANOTHER comment from me full of appreciation. Thank you for being real, compassionate, thoughtful, and well articulated. I'm not a visual artist but a musician and sound engineer, but what you're saying is readily transposable.

[@halfheartxi]

I found moderate success when I stopped chasing likes and just started being myself. I realized I don’t have to be a master artist like WLOP, Guweiz, Loish, or like the countless other incredible artists online. I just have to be me. If I make what I‘m passionate about, and work on improving my technical skills over my follower count. Then the rest will follow. It’s still difficult, of course. Most days I feel like I suck and I’ll never be qualified for any job, but it’s slowly improving. I hope it improves for you too, fellow artist, if you’re feeling the same I felt like I was on the brink of falling into that trap again. Thank you for reminding me, Adam! ♡

[@vlweb3d]

I usually watch your videos at 1.5x speed. So I end up watching the whole video.

[@FNL47]

I am not an artist, but I do make music and watching your videos has made me realized how much I've missed doing so. And funnily enough I stopped because I kept seeing my friends get more likes than I could ever imagine and thought my stuff was never good enough

[@MightycondriaPOWERHOUSE]

Social media is weird for me, I find the inspiration that drives me and carries me, and a demotivating experience when life becomes difficult and I'm not able to focus on how to establish an audience outside of putting in the work and building skills

[@4minigeeks4minigeeks96]

Great topic, art should never be a popularity contest.

[@hollowedboi5937]

2nd day listening Find yourself first, let the algorithm find you last. Everything else in between. Keep consistent in practicing and being you for your own sake. Social media is not the be all end all, but you are always there for you.

[@suzume_artz]

I know I'm late, but i really wanted to leave a comment on your video to express how thankful I am for this. All your videos in general really help me get in the groove for drawing, but this one in particular helped me feel better today. I'm not the kind of artist who draws what's popular or a style that's considered to be popular, so the algorithm usually doesn't like me. But honestly, listening to your talk today made me look at my artworks & realise that I pour so much of myself and my emotions into them. They're authentic & that's what truly matters. I hope that every artist can understand and remember this feeling. Thank you, Adam ❤

[@marcofonseca6264]

Don't follow likes... follow your heart Thanks so much Adam.

[@mikael6264]

Thank you for the video Adam!

[@treetrunki3009]

Thank you very much, I really appreciate the longer videos that you do ❤

[@RomulusMorgan]

A perfectly timed video. Been overwhelmed by feelings of inadequacy and not catering enough to my socials. Thank you, Adam.

[@theeZannypants]

Thank you. I’m over the moon that I came across your channel long ago. Your videos are amazing, they always make me feel better, even when the topic doesn’t completely relate to me. Thank you for being a wholesome person and sharing your thoughts and experiences with all of us. 🖤

[@ArtLand_89]

Thank u for existing!💜🦋I've been playing your art talks as podcasts and I'm really obsessed! I feel like I'm slowly but surely building a bond with other artists! You make me feel connected to the art community! Thank u from the bottom of my heart!🦋💜

[@kanachiaki]

Twitter deleting my account (coz I put the wrong birth date 🙄) was honestly one of the best thing that happened for revamping my love for painting. I realized that I was overwhelmed by all the amazing artists I was following instead of being inspired by them. Now I curate my time on social media very meticulously and I take my time to work on personal projects which is doing wonders for my mental health and my artistic growth 😊

[@PepiMepi]

I took a 2 month break from instagram and pretty fast I started feeling a freedom I haven't had in a long time while I was drawing, because I didn't have in the back of my head that I might post it. It made the process of drawing more enjoyable and relaxed. I also ended up getting more creative and expressive with my drawings, since I knew only I would see it. I'd occasionally share some things directly with friends, which would spark some more meaningful conversations and sketch sessions together. It took me a while to commit to the break, since I love seeing the art of my fav artists. However, not seeing amazing art all the time, as Adam suggested, really did make me feel more confident and free while drawing as well. I'm trying to slowly re-introduce instagram again, since I do want to share my art. But I'm setting some hard limits and if I catch my self scrolling again I'll ditch it probably.

[@AdamDuffArt]

That kind of detox is very helpful, it allows you to become more sensitive to how invasive it can be if you let it - sets healthier boundaries

[@PepiMepi]

@@AdamDuffArt 100%! Three Weeks in and I still caught my self unlocking my phone and tapping where the insta icon used to be..

[@nicolemichele-darkwoodland2136]

I needed to hear this right now Adam, thank you. I'm in my early 30s and miss the times where social media wasn't around. I wish it wasn't a necessary evil to my industry so that I could have time away from it all to reconnect with my personal art. I've been getting lost in commerical art and always having to adjust my work. Dont get me wrong, I wouldn't trade my job for the world but trying to reconnect with the authentic self and produce originals is difficult. It's scary to put your soul on display for the chopping block. Ironically though, its that exact transparency that produces the best work. I think the same applies to your situation and ignoring the yt algorithm. I even think typing this out has helped me figure out my next steps. Thank you again 🙏

[@serasvoid]

I was so happy when you mentioned Healthy Gamer GG. It just felt a bit likea circle closing. You and Dr. K have helped me so much with anxiety and your videos especially have gotten me through quite a few art lows and bouts of self doubt. Thank you so much for making these soothing, empathic videos and these glorious art pieces. I've become a much calmer and more confident person through them.

[@cory99998]

I listened to this last night as I was falling asleep and dreamt that I was able to express my raw creativity and people liked me for me. Not like fame and fortune but just pure authentic connection. This is something really powerful for me because from a young age my family and peers didn't understand what I was doing and only ever recognized and praised achievements rather than praising my voice.

[@trinibini9548]

Thank you for talking about this. I really wish it was talked about more. I don't regret sharing my artwork online, but it was terrible for my mental health and I feel so much better not posting and just creating for myself now. Also I love the longer videos! They are the perfect thing to put on and listen to when I'm painting

[@TyeMorrisVlog]

Thank you Adam! I’m not an illustrator or artist like many of your other followers, I’m a videographer and photographer, but what first drew me to your channel was the wisdom that crossed mediums; I could apply nearly everything you talk about to my own work. I have always struggled with comparison, especially in my super narrow niche here on KZbin, and one of the ways I’ve combatted that is by taking a step back from social media and only using it as an advertising platform for my businesses. After a six month social media fast I let myself come back, and I realized I wasn’t missing much and that I was letting myself stray too far away from my own authenticity just like you talk about. Thanks again for all the great wisdom and relaxing videos!

[@AdamDuffArt]

Rest assured that my videos are intended as much for you as they are for any artistic creator, whether it be video production, dance, music, cooking, you name it. We all go through the same struggles every day. This channel is for you too - thank you so much :)

[@redtwintails]

Thank you Adam, this couldnt have come at a better time again. So many times I've wanted to give up, its so easy to attach self-worth to engagement on social media and forget what is really the truth.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Hey, that’s nothing new - we’ve always been aware of others and what they have that we don’t. But - when it starts winning at making you want to give up, you know it’s time to reevaluate your situation - that’s where the balance becomes unhealthy.

[@rajendrameena150]

Your channel is great for art person. I was frustrated with my learning and found your channel where you talk about how to deal with such thing, i mean you described the situation which resonates with my situation. Your voice is so genuine that till now i listen to your voice when get free time.

[@bioluminosity]

I am so happy you made a video about this because it's been in the front of my mind since twitter seemed to be getting "worse" (for maybe a month now, but of course, it was never good). the energy i waste trying to be seen online for work isn't a fair trade for spending that time doing what I WANT to do.

[@neiljamessloan]

Beautiful Man! Thx Mister

[@roxannep.7043]

So refreshing hearing this, I love using ur channel as background when I’m drawing.

[@BigDomski]

Gonna give this a watch before sleep tonight. Sounds like something I really need to hear right now. I used to like just posting anything and everything that I drew on social media, but with just a couple of years of it, it made me not want to post, or even look at other people's work, at all. It basically turned my whole view of the "art community" upside down, where I stopped engaging with other artists because I felt no where near their level. Currently immersing myself back into drawing (although slowly), but trying to limit my time looking at professional work that will look unachievable for the next couple of years 😂

[@whitesnake.]

This video is something I was waiting for. Thank you Adam

[@AdamDuffArt]

You’re very welcome :)

[@ValyxBassSlap]

I've listened to this today as I was relaxing on minecraft and didn't watch the video, which...is usually what I do since I draw and paint with your voice and music in the back binging on everything you say and, apart from this being one incredible summary of everything an artist should stop worrying about and focus on themselves first and their authenticity, I just looked back at the thumbnail later in the evening and got pulled in by that creature, I just rewatched the whole video to watch you paint this time haha ! Incredible piece Adam

[@jdquairoli]

What a wonderful video thank you for making it and sharing it with us. It came to me at a time I was really doubting myself and it allowed me the clarity to step back and go back into my training and creating. You earned yourself a dedicated subscriber here sir.

[@whimsicalmusedesign]

This art talk is one of my favorites you have done. Thank you for these amazing videos ❤ they really help me with my self confidence and not overthinking. I get so overwhelmed easily and these help a lot.

[@weadmann]

I thank you for this video Adam, because the other day I posted an artwork, it totally underperformed and I was eating my head thinking about what could have gone wrong, if I messed up the artwork, maybe the fact that I didn't add a nice background and all that stuff and I knew I couldn't do that, that I should just focus on making art, but even then it was there messing with me So I thank you for these very helpful words, it will probably continue to bother me in the future, but when it does, I will try to remember your words in this video and focus on the important thing, which is to make art that makes me happy

[@kaki0ks]

This is exactly what i needed to hear. I'm prone to self-doubt and social media did not help. Thank you Adam so much

[@koushayeganeh1073]

Thank you so much for what you do, it means a lot inthis overwhelming chaos.

[@heartoon.cartoon]

Thank you, so much Adam 🙏

[@viktonyquib]

Thank you Adam

[@TanijaTheFaun]

Thank you so much ❤ (I've stopped using social media a while ago already and only use some things to talk to friends directly for feedback and similar, and it helped me immensely. But your videos are always so helpful to understand what is stopping one or holding one back)

[@snichols7246]

Thank you! This was a sorely needed reminder as always, and very timely. I feel a little more grounded now, and so I am off to experiment with some inks with a fuller heart!

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well you’re very welcome :)

[@user-bz4dk3uu1o]

Thank you for your insight, it's just what I'm needing at the moment, just so I can get myself out there as I've been debating with myself far too long if I should or shouldn't. Thanks for the encouragement 😊

[@Karimozoro]

your videos and voice are becoming and adiction for me. Whenever you stop talking I start to feel sad and miss it. Thank Adam for being you and not an employee creating content for the employer, youtube!

[@ArtistSik]

Hey Adam, thank you very much for this. I am still studying. I ignore social media but from time to time I go on it. I am overwhelmed by what's out there and the quantity of it. This video really hit the nail for me, I'll rewatch it from time to time. Thank you

[@azaeum6012]

Around the 13, 14-minute mark, when you're talking about people constantly telling you what you do wrong.... I thought of my maternal-side grandpa who literally/very seriously told like, 3 or 4yo me, "Does that look like a horse? I don't think so" when I was trying to draw this horse toy/figure I had. Like... toddler me thought I was doing great until that moment lmao.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Technically you weren’t wrong - because that IS a horse to a 4 year old :)

[@azaeum6012]

@@AdamDuffArt Lol, well, 4yo me woulda loved to hear that XD That comment from my grandpa still haunts me sometimes, and I'm 30 now LOL

[@llynhunter]

Thanks again for pep talk Adam! You are always my favorite cheering section.

[@fowlerillus]

I loved this Adam. Thanks as always.

[@wanwan1772]

I'm not the person who comments often and i think i'm shy, but I think it's really thankful to find this type of content. I mean, it's really warming to hear someone who tries to see how things are affecting to other artists and yourself. I love the reflexion of our reallity. I still seeing myself as an young artist who needs to improve, but i think the approvation somethimes don't hit me aswell as it should do. My mentor saw my portfolio and says it's awesome but i think i still need to grow up as artist. It's usually for me not to "celebrate" those kind of comments, i don't know if its right or wrong. My attention is very focus on what's happening on my nets and i think that kind of thinking is very toxic. The social media it's something i need at this moment, but this video made my head flip into 180 degrees really xDD. I love this kind of stuff because i could see myself in other ways that should i improve or change. I was really afflicted on what to post on social media but i think you have a right point, i shouldn't work for the algorithm, i need to work on myself. I think the text it's long, i'm sorry xD but this video really touch my heart. Thanks for beeing here, i really want to see more of your content and your fascinating illustrations. Also i love monsters haha !!

[@omega_shalow]

Thank you Adam, truly. Your words always reassure me that this is my path in life, and that it's worth all the struggles. Thank you.

[@AutumnRainTurkel]

Great talk Adam. I think one thing to keep in mind is the improvement that you talk about. When I was at Art Center, and for years after that, even into my current art based streams and community, I saw artists that suffered from the Dunning Kreuger effect. They just simply overestimated their abilities. So, they were unable to push, because they didn't see that they needed to continue to push. It didn't help back when the naive art movement was all the rage, but that has calmed down now. So there is more of a "be the best you can be" approach. Many young artists just lack the know how to access the introspection to take thing to the next level of representational excellence. So they laguish in repetition, thinking they are better than they are and wondering when they will get that big break. I'm not saying your point isn't strong and doesn't hold merit. What I am saying is the bottom 40% of artists think they are better than they are and the top 20% think they are worse than they are, at least from what I understand about psychology. So ultimately we are fighting a battle of perception that shifts from one extreme to the other. It's important to stay true to yourself, your artistic ideals, and grow those along with your art, but that begs the question "do you have the introspection to realize when you are being led astray?"

[@nutk3917]

Thanks again Adam, your videos are so helpful for artists. Its always helped me to draw and everything you say had so much value. ❤

[@Capitan_Kruger]

Thanks, I appreciate the talk.

[@AdamDuffArt]

You’re welcome Kruger :)

[@LiathLaVerneHawke]

Needed this this week since I've been struggling. I decided to retire my Twitter that had all of my followers a while back due to the crazyness and now I'm working in other social networks starting over and it's been a struggle. So far when i do what i like to do that does much better. I think it also doesn't help that July has been a stress for me for other reasons. Thanks for being awesome Adam!

[@Foxercide]

Not sure why, but I have an unbelievably strong urge to stick my arm into the creature you're drawing. I know it would be painful, but that part of my brain just makes me wonder what would happen. It's like when you feel curious on what's below the drains you come across and start imagining what would happen if you tried to crawl inside.

[@AdamDuffArt]

Well technically, if you look closely, sticking your hand in the mouth will surprise you - you’ll poke him in the eye if you do

[@SaintsCoAnime]

Thank you uncle Adam sir well said Amen love you sir God bless you Sir 😇😍

[@lockwouldYT]

just looked over and realized that was an eye and not a mouth, that's awesome