The Amazingly Simple Way Procrastinators Can Transform Into Hyper Productive Artists

[@impostrum1103]

Once again, you’re speaking a very important truth about being an artist in the world today. Its so frustrating being a ‘low pace’ artist in a ‘high pace’ artist environment. Having to force yourself to switch on your creativity on and of daily takes SO much energy away from actually doing the art itself. I understand why and how art needs to be industrialized in the film industry. I just dont like, that that story of the hollywood artist is the ONLY story of succes an artist should try to match up to. Again, thank you Adam, please never stop being a voice in the dark.

[@alexlamiaart]

I was in tears by the end of this video. I’ve been lacking motivation and feeling hopeless for years. When I was the most productive, it was before my grandfather passed. I realize, now, that my grandfather was the main reason I painted. He was an artist and got me into art. My favorite part about painting was showing him my paintings. He passed six years ago, and I’m struggling without him. But now that I’m creating holiday cards, I’m painting more than I have in a long time, and I feel alive again. I feel like me. This video was very inspirational and helpful. Thank you.

[@kitansan]

I heard a Korean professional illustrator say that fundamentals are everything, because it is the backbone of being able to do commercial art. The separation between personal and commercial art is important. Personal art for yourself can be as you like, and it can give you creative ideas, but commercial art needs professional processes. Maybe the thought of having others appreciate our art really is the motivation for us to get better.

[@dplj4428]

Yes. As I continue revisit the fundamentals, I discover many more ways to make my message visible. I hope art schools include some basic business course directed at artists. That is definitely a need, a fundamental, for all artists. Whether they admit it or not, even fine artists may want their audience to purchase. Knowledge frees the artist from some anxiety because they will know about selling, contracts, getting paid, and being able to profit. Do fine art schools still teach students that commercial art is selling out or there is no art in it?

[@Epsellis]

This is why I have you on in the background when I'm making concept art. You are the greatest counter to my self doubt and imposter syndrome. When my inner demons makes it feel like I'm playing Dark Souls, You keep me... rolling.

[@tulikas9862]

I think I really am a designer. I switched to graphic design a year ago when the AI shit was starting to take a toll. I needed a job and my degree helped also. Started doing packaging design and making assets. A couple months in, when I was settled into it, I felt liberated, man. Deeply. I related so much to that thought of "I don't live and breathe art, this isn't my identity, I have other passions on the side". I am a _hoarder_ of hobbies. I knit, I craft, I sew, I write, I play chess, I cook, I decorate. I need all of that to feel fulfilled, I pick up a new hobby every few years and carry it in my sack forever. That is my identity: the culmination of everything I do, and I do many many many things. I think what happened at some point when I got into art, is that all the KZbin artists started making me feel like I can and should do this as a job. I don't need to. I don't need to at all. I can thrive as a graphics person because I have sense of visual aesthetic thanks to art. And similar to that, I pull from every single one of my other hobbies also. All my interests somehow came together and unified to give me a lot of value in this field. I'm still a newbie, but I already feel how much more suited I am to this than to making art.

[@vividfox8287]

It's funny how my journey mirror's yours but in the opposite direction. I wanted to make art as my career, but everyone I saw as mentors and teachers told me this wasn't possible, that I was being selfish, and that no one makes money with art ever and forever. I believed them (I was just a teenager) so I went to college for graphic design. At least it is visual communication and we use similar fundamentals. I have a job now as the lead/senior graphic designer at a local sign shop and I regret it. Or rather, I regret listening to my parents and teachers on this. I knew graphic design wasn't for me when I realized I have no drive to be better. No personal reason to increase my skill. I work just as much as I have to get by in this field. That is not what I want. I finally got some good advice from other artists who are making a living doing art and decided to make a massive career shift. I am so much happier doing this and spending free time getting better at fine art than I ever did learning design. One day, I will quit this design job and go artist full time. As someone doing the reverse of you, I wish you luck, good designers are very much needed now more than ever.

[@mon4711]

Same, although I am not sure about the distinction between art and design cause it's not black and white, I see I am very different to people who identify themselves as artists. And hanging around with them, I've been trying to mould myself to something I am not. That costed me so much confusion and time. I am a designer, and I love solving problems, providing people, especially real, heavy problems and injustice in the world, but I'd rather have it in a my pace. I do love expressing myself when I am in the mood, but if that were my career I would be so frustrated. I think art is everywhere, from the daily objects you use to big galleries. And I love it when mine is getting use silently.

[@DOCTOR.DEADHEAD]

When you said that remembering a time when you were productive can help you determine what's stunting your motivation, I immediately thought back to my high school days where I had friends who loved seeing my drawings and always asked if I had anything new the next day... That feeling of knowing there were people who I could draw for always made me not only draw more frequently but put an amount of effort into each drawing that I barely if ever produce today. Ever since getting out of college its been significantly harder to find that same drive, I'm the most isolated I've been which means there's nobody to talk to about my art and look forward to draw for to see their reaction, nothing to make me hold myself accountable and keep creating. At the moment I do want a job in the arts, preferably storyboarding or being a key animator, but that alone isn't enough to motivate me and make me build up my portfolio.

[@jaidenfrost709]

I had a very similar situation in my earlier years of college, im a senior now but in my freshman year i got really into making tiktoks and really enjoyed just making jokes and people finding it funny. i ended up quitting because i was afraid of making more videoes and losing myself trying to make people laugh, but i definitely think that was the most dedicated and persistent ive been in something since i graduated highschool. I think if we can find a way to recreate how we felt back then somehow it would benefit us. I think i might make an instagram to post art for my friends to see but be cautious of my mental so i dont quit again. i wish you peace on your art journey

[@milpwe161]

I also had the same situation, when I was 12-13 years old. There was a pretty big fandom in amino, but throughout my journey as an artist I've found a lot of new folks I could share my first steps with - my drawings. I've been in good relations with people, found caring friends who liked my drawings not becuase they looked awesome and professional, but because they reflected what was inside of me back then. I am almost 19, I don't talk with these people anymore nor use amino, but that insight that my art has to create a conversation between me and audience is, to be honest, groundbreaking. I still make art, I've been posting it in social media but only a few had resonated with it. And now I understand why. Big thanks to Adam for his talk

[@L30NGrande]

This is exactly why I created an Instagram for my artwork. Growing a fanbase for my artwork is what I used as fuel to drive creation of my art. It also allowed me to find what was successful, and yes it is kind of shallow, but the amount of likes I was getting for a post would inform me on what was successful. Having those viewers who looked forward to and appreciated my creations was priceless for me, and gave me purpose. Purpose was essential, and is essential for me. In the end, after 2 years of posting consistently for my followers, I got to a point where I was hirable and landed an industry job. Now I'm in a place where I thought I would never be financially. It's amazing. I am happy.

[@FloodlightZhou]

I have noticed I have extreme motivation that makes me able to move mountains (at least, to my standards) when I'm having an "hyperfixation". Meaning I'm utterly obsessed with something to the point of wanting to create for it. And most of the time it's fiction. I think i've realized that drawing is not what I love, what I love is stories you can tell via drawings, characters you get to meet and give life to. I'm motivated, because weirdly enough, I feel indebted to the characters that I love, be it from shows I watch, or shows I work on. I feel a responsability towards them and it makes me want to do my very best! Even when it's hard, I tell myself "Do it for that little kid, he needs your help to finish his story!" I think at the core, I just personally find meaning in life through fiction, so, giving it my all so the characters I tell the stories of can get the best outcome possible is my personal motivation haha.

[@Freeasacloud]

Very relateable, this actually explains my situation as well wauw

[@zalecart8243]

I crawled out of my bed today sad and beat up because yesterday I realized I don`t enjoy drawing anymore. The thing that sustained me most of my life did not give me a spec of joy and the lack of feeling terrified me. Now I am sitting, tears running down my cheeks, because once again, Adam, your words hit me hard. And those words are what I needed the most. Now I just need to find out what value I can give to the world.... If there is any value at all I can offer. Thank you for your videos.

[@Mizizi96]

I feel that all of us have value because each of us views the world in a different way. And we can show other people our perspective of the world through our art. And I think that is neat.

[@budrothefox3666]

I'm a casual artist not professional just trying to learn, improve but most importantly to me i just want to draw almost every day. Even if its just some gesture sketches or a small completed anime portrait. I have low standards because i have burned out in the past when trying to force progress. I would draw a complete portrait from photo reference every day for 30 days straight and then not draw for 5 months. I don't want to repeat that cycle so this time around i'm just using the motto "draw when i want to but try to draw at least something every day." it's been good i still have days every now and then when i don't but most days of the last 3 months i have drawn something each day. I struggle with procrastination and the highs and lows of art. When a piece doesn't come together i have to remind myself i'm learning and it's good that i just did something and got that part of my brain working. Sometimes just doing more than nothing has to be good enough. Try not to put too much pressure on yourselves and don't compare yourself to pros too often. Just focus on you and do things your way.

[@adammartin4455]

That feeling of responsibility and a deadline is literally the only way I manage to get things done. I have never felt passionate about any graphic design profession even though I know I could do it, now I realise it's because I'm more connected to emotion and feeling than superficial 'looks'. I'm glad to have shaken off the naive self that I was during university when I wanted to be a concept artist/character designer. That wasn't me. What IS me, it in writing and illustrating my own books. So far I've published 3, and I'm just getting started. Thank you for this reminder Adam :)

[@vividfox8287]

You mentioned multiple times how making art for someone other than yourself makes you accountable and can get you to produce better work more frequently. I had been struggling with motivation on making personal pieces to go in my portfolio. The classes I took this year were fruitful in pushing me towards professional looking work, but my motivation to create had been a little sapped from the constant studying. I started questioning if this was a good idea, if I should be pursuing this as a career. Then I got the biggest news of my life. I am going to be a father. Now all I want to do us draw and paint. I want to carry my family on these skills I have such a passion for. I want my son to pick up his gaming console, show it to his friends, and proudly say, "My daddy made that." I want this more than anything else. He isn't even born yet and I want him to be proud of what I can do. The first thing my parents said after all of the tearful congratulations was, "I guess you can't do that art thing you wanted to do anymore." They couldn't be more wrong. Now I have to, there isn't a choice in my mind anymore. I am compelled. My son is counting on me.

[@meikahidenori]

I found when I'm procrastinating artistically, I'm actually being productive elsewhere in regards to family & house keeping, Gardening, building minatures... ect. It's not procrastinating anymore, I call it giving myself a break. Sometimes you need to walk away from the paints and just do other things to recharge, burn different energy & exercise other brain muscles to give your imagination & creativity time to recharge as when everything you do is creative and nothing else you will burn out snd get so drained you'll find it hard to get back into it.

[@silenttttttttt]

Your drip never disappoints Adam!

[@omardraws]

The part about using KZbin to hold yourself accountable is so reall!! I started a channel last year and the summer of this year i pretty much gave up on it. In September i decided to give it a shot again and been posting every week ever since and it has done WONDERS for my productivity and I also feel like I have a small audience of people now who actually look forward to my videos and the feeling of giving back to a community is literally the best thing ever 🎉

[@nikitano7035]

Adam, you are the only one who gives me hope. Without your videos I'd have to say goodbye to art at the very beginning, but you are motivating me to move forward to my dream of becoming a tattoo artist. Thank you very much, you've changed my live forever

[@okamichamploo]

What you said about chasing the needs of the industry is so true. I spent so much time just adding to my portfolio what I thought the industry wanted that I eventually lost sight of what I actually want to do.

[@kaylwerx]

Slinging coffee in a corporate building at 29 and not making it by feels really shitty when all I want to be doing is pouring into my art. I will get there & your videos encouraging artists to keep going have been a big deal, so thank you.

[@dieterdecuijper3841]

You, sir, are like the Sadghuru of the Art. Not do you only speak about the art aspect itself but also how it reflects on your life. There's wisdom in your words, combined with calmness. There's a warm and gentle soul living behind those eyes. It isn't easy to be an artist these days, or be creative in general. But somehow you manage to keep that creative flame inside everyones body burning and even fuel it. I thank you for this .. 🙏

[@ChroniclerEnigma]

Yeah, wow, kinda needed this. I've been feeling for a long time that my art is just not valuable, like there's plenty of other people who could do what i do better, even though it makes me sad not to do it? And then I'm also just absolutely terrified of the internet in general. So I tend to keep my art to myself, but it never really goes anywhere and I usually just feel like it doesn't matter. So what you say about having something to keep you accountable, or creating something that matters to you, and matters to other people, is probably what I'm missing. Really, I know that my art does resonate with people, but- something feels wrong. Maybe I just need to take that leap and stop being scared about sharing my work and maybe I'll find a community that encourages me to keep at it. Isolation is shit for your mental health, and I've been isolated quite a lot the past few years, even in terms of places like discord. I started looking around for groups to join, and it is kinda helping with that itch to draw, like maybe my art isn't the best, but it will get better if i at least get motivated to try. There are so many things i like. I used to draw spiderman art. There's a million drawings of spiderman, way better than mine, but will i feel happy drawing it? Hell yeah i will. Because i get to reflect on all the things i like about spiderman, and the memories I have of going to the library to get the books, reading on the bus, going to my grand parents to watch the toby movies. That special time period that I will never get back of my life that was special to me where i learned about stories and characters that resonated with me. So, maybe you're right. I need to bring to the table what I can bring to the table. For me, and for people that it matters to. Thanks, Adam.

[@christinemaleport1422]

Thank you for sharing Adam. Your moms story resonated with me as I’m at this crossroads with my fine art degree, bills, meeting my sons needs, and substitute teaching. I’m enrolled to become a special education teacher. Part of me feels like I’ll be giving up trying to be an artist bc as a long term substitute special Ed. teacher, it’s so time consuming. I love working with my students, but feeling like I’m severing something if I go through with this entirely. I love that your mom is painting now 🍀💗

[@alexandrachernysh7]

Adam, thank you for this video, I love your channel. I have been a professional artist for about six years, I am hoping to someday take your online class to brush on my fundamentals. In my experience art is not much different from any other regular job, it is most similar to engineering or any type of work that involves intense problem solving. Just like baking bread or driving a bus - you have to get up every morning and show up. Even if you don't feel inspired or you're tired or sick.. even if you don't want - you have to find it in yourself and do your job. There's little time for reflecting or pondering, it has to be done quickly, consistently and reliably, and you have to answer and be responsible to your clients. But there is another side to it, possibly something that helped me go on all these years.. I have a great respect for all those people with regular mundane work, all those who bake bread or sweep the streets or make sure there's hot water in my home, or provide any kind of service. I had worked like that too, and I know it can be very gray and upsetting and terrifyingly hard. That is when those people come to us, artists, so we can give them some meaning and color in their lives, so they are not as lonely or scared That is just an opinion of one person, and if you never read this - that's still ok)

[@tracklauonly]

I have been drawing for a while. Lately I lost my drive. This was something i needed to listen to.

[@Sulcuryalt_Inone]

"It's much easier for me to dissapoint my self than it is to dissapoint you". That's been my biggest hurdle with getting back into art after having spent multiple years focusing on a normal job to survive. I've been formulating a youtube channel in order to build the accountability to the audience thing. It's nice to hear that it can work.

[@leslierobertson385]

This is really interesting, because I have the opposite relationship to art. My job is in the medical field and while it's very rewarding to help people, the entitlement, dependency, and unreasonable expectations are absolutely exhausting and demoralizing. When I make art I only have to please myself and I have absolute freedom from the expectations of others. Of course I think this is the difference between making art for public "consumption" as a career and making art as a "hobby". Love from the west coast of Canada! I enjoy the atmosphere of your videos and the attention to detail and effort you put in definitely shows.

[@mauravelte6127]

The Australian Artis Struthless once sayed something similar in one of his videos. To be at the service of people with his work brought him harmony and a path to go. Something like that, can't remeber the exact words. But it resonated with me as it dose now with what you say.

[@korbitror]

Hey... Thank you so much for this video. Seriously. I have been wondering for years, almost a decade now, what am I drawing for. The novelty of a young mind has worn off and things that previously interested me no longer give me the satisfaction. I never realized that what I was looking for is value and responsibility. I feel that it's something that a lot of young men suffers from these days: The lack of a cause they can devote themselves to. It never occurred to me that this needs be applied to art as well, if we are ever to find fulfillment in art. It must not be a hobby -- it needs be a mission. I don't know how I can bring value to the world with my art yet, but I promise you I will try my best to make it happen. Thank you again, if you're ever unsure about the value you bring, I hope you remember that you've managed to change the life of this one random viewer. Please keep being awesome! The world needs more of you!

[@CollegeEntrepreneur2345]

Interesting to think how every artist has a different reason for expressing themselves

[@MinoSenpai]

I can't really describe how much your words brought life back to the part of me that almost gave up on art, I've always wanted to go to art school, my one and only dream, I used to draw things I was passionate about, and when i got to art school, i was thrilled and i enjoyed learning the fundamentals, but things spiralled to the worse when i got into animation department, the demand of creating something that I don't resonate with and my own passions getting completely discarded, I found myself in a place where I don't learn anything new even when it comes to fundementals, I was just constantly being drained.. artistically, financially, physically and emotionally.. I ended up taking the decision to leave that art school.. it definitely took its toll on me and I'm still recovering, I will apply for another art school.. looking out for the actual education inside of it this time, and.. I almost gave up on the idea entirely, but thanks to your art talks, the things you share with us has taught me in my life as an artist way more than these people who called themselves professors back at my old art school, they did nothing but destroy our uniqueness.. and our personalities..

[@victorramirez1280]

Adam, you are always very articulate in how you describe some of the challenges artists face while on their phases of career. I am a casual listener, but every time I tune in, I always feel like I have gained more than I had. I am a more traditional artist, but still use digital tools to keep going. Sometimes, it is a struggle because I don't do this full time. I work a 9-5, which is the anathema of creativity. But it has kept me fed and sheltered, so I don't treat that job with any distain. In the past, When you said You tube was personal, I fully understood what you meant. It is more rewarding to do work that is yours and personal than work for corporate interests. I am at a point now where I am older(50's), and I can feel my work and interests changing. Working as an artist for a corporation doesn't interest me. So, I am still trying to develop my own creative vehicle. Thank you for this video, helped with deal with the pain of these creative challenges.

[@FloraSora]

Well put. Adam truly hit a unique point there on the full-time, daily schedule being not everyone's cup of tea, and how it isn't necessarily the definition of pro-artist versus noob-artist. I've also personally been wanting to push my art forward in a huge way, but the 8-hours-a-day approach truly is not my cup of tea. I get burnt out really quickly when I suck out every idea of my head like that without any sort of guiding structure or careful thought in HOW I pull those ideas out, or without some vehicle to obtain new ideas and refresh my mind through going out, having down time, etc etc. I hope you continue your artistic journey, and do so with prosperity and mindfulness.

[@witchwhatwho]

Hey Adam, long time peruser of your channel here. Love your attitude, and I hate to just jump in here with something negative, but I can't help but feel like learning to cultivate a connection with an audience or trying to find a group of people who 'rely' on your artistic output is one of the last things I would describe as 'amazingly simple'. Even as a competent artist who has spent years trying to improve, (currently working with an aspiring itty bitty game company full of great people!) it feels impossible most of the time to zero in on what even my most supportive friends will 'connect' with, beyond the most basic call-outs-- fan art of characters I know they like, genre specifics, etc. Which isn't a very personal connection at all. It has only ever been disheartening for me to try and wrap my head around what aspects of my art people will respond to beyond surface level stuff. Art communities are great. I love to share what knowledge I have on a person-to-person basis and I do make my best efforts at 'giving' to others, drawing them in, trying to keep them excited-- especially about their own work. But even trying to establish the most basic accountability among friends-- (commissioned work or gifted art of their own properties, for example), has more often led me to stressing over the results so much that I shut down and can't stand what I'm making. I suddenly 'know' I can do so much better and scrap versions of this or that... for months... or a year... or forever... And these are for things I care about, something I hope will just brighten someone's day. This is a lot of 'I' talk, certainly not everyone has had the same experiences, but it seems to me that there are a whole lot of young artists out there who already find it exceedingly hard to remain motivated to keep 'rephrasing' or 'extending' or digging down through what they are passionate about for an audience that never arrives. It does sting a little to see the thing most of us are struggling with presented as a simple solution, and for a lot of us it may be better to just make what feels right and put any ideas of its reception out of our head. Regardless-- I'm glad to hear about the better turns in your health recently, and would like to thank you for what you offer to the art community. You have made for some really good company on a lot of creatively frustrating days.

[@floydartx]

This really hit home, and I have still been pondering about returning to youtube to share my experiences as well. Thank you for being such an inspiring spirit and a voice in the dark. I have been painting for the majority of my 30+ years, and never found a home in either galleries or industry. So many rejections and most of all no response at all.. Just hollow maybes and constant voiced "not my style". It hurts, but there are truths in it. Especially as the artists particular voice is often not that of the potential clients. I was angry for years having to hear what I should do instead of what I really wanted to do, but it is something to let go of. It is as you say. We have to pay our bills, and to do that we have to adapt. One way or another, but most importantly not losing our own voice. Again, thank you for being you.

[@krydala7650]

This is why I'm working on becoming a tattoo artist now. I withered in the 'normal' world so to say. After over 16 years of doubt and depression I got my first tattoo at the start of this year. The second one not too long after and getting them was the best thing I ever did for myself. That ink saved me. I want to use what I have to maybe give someone else something to enjoy. Something nice. Something that makes them happy. That helps them through a rough day. That makes them feel good about themselves. I'm most certainly not the best artist, but I hope I can give something meaningful to people around me some day. I'm trying to hold on to that thought on rough days now.

[@fripouill3_]

take care too ! and we love you too ! thanks for your amazing services ❤

[@FrancescoIllustrates]

This video couldn’t have come at a better time in my life. The crossroads that you’ve spoken about is when I am wholeheartedly. Somewhere in myself my thoughts, feeling and drive have been facing into this direction for some time now, and this video has confirmed it despite only just building the courage to step forward. The kind of artist you’ve described yourself is the same type of artist I am. You’ve honestly given me hope to continue on the path I’m on and to not give up. From the bottom of my heart I thank you for not just my emotional impact upon your video, but for also teaching me something valuable. Knowing your worth and how to present this worth towards others is the artist I truly am. Thank you Adam for everything🙏

[@Corelila]

I really cannot agree with you more. I find a LOT of purpose in connecting with clients and their personal missions. It’s usually something bigger than themselves that I’m helping them build. I love nonprofits. I love authors. It’s absolutely the feeling of being depended on that inspires me as well.

[@valdoneporcheddu1200]

Your words are kind and beautiful, thank you 🩵

[@paulinemopsanchez]

Thank you Adam ! You've put words on things I was trying to understand for quite a while. Doing art for my self was a huge pain, and could understand why. Then I started to "mentor" young people in an art school. And I was always very excited to share with them what I learned, doing with them exercices, thinking how to share knowledge, preparing exemples for weeks ahead. And all that passion I have for art. Since my skill had skyrocket, my confidence too. And I feel really free and happy to share; to be accountable to this student. I share with them what I love the most, and they share their thoughts too. And it's really energizing and motivating to see them growing and coming back to you to say "hey thank you I've learned a lot, and now I want to learn more about this topic". I said my dream was to put fairy dust in the eyes of people and creating magic with colors and strokes. This urge to share not just a picture but a moment, an emotion, something... Now I know my dream is no more; because it became a reality. I just need to keep it up, I feel accountable to put a little pinch of magic in their life.

[@justdallythings]

I’m so happy you make these. Thank you.

[@PthumerianDusk]

I'm in the middle of a huge burnout and this video really had me thinking about why I can't seem to be able to work on my studies like I used to just mere months ago. My main motivation in the last year has been learning. Learning the fundamentals, learning how to work with the tools I have, but mainly, learning with someone as a guide. I've been mostly self taught, but I started an online course last year. Connecting with the teachers and the other students, even if I'm very shy and it's all online, really made a difference. Right now I'm not in any course and I'm not sure I'll be able to enroll in january. The only thing that keeps me going are my twitch channel and my tiktok (lol) because I "have to" draw and paint and just make something, either while I'm live on twitch or to post on TT. But even then I feel like I'm not really going anywhere meaning-wise with my art. What do I want to say? Do I just want to make pretty pictures (which I'll never like because I feel like I'm so far behind with skills)? Do I just want to make fanarts of characters that spoke to me one way or another? The only clear thing that I know is that some day I want to make a card for MTG, but I can't seem to be able to do the only thing that will get me a bit closer, which is studying. I just feel like there's something clogging me up and I need to get it out before I can start studying again in a more effective way, but I don't know how to do it. Some days I feel like I'll never get my drive back, but listening to your videos helps. Thank you

[@3mizuki_12]

This has done wonders for my self esteem. Thank you Adam!

[@MakeYourLifeaWorkofArt]

I'm listening to this while I finally record my first real video while I'm creating an illustration, and this is exactly what I needed. I have so much I've been through - GOTTEN through - that it would be a disservice for me to not share it with people. I am finally starting to feel like it is selfish of me to not help others with my career knowledge, and with how I have created my life. I can't NOT start sharing the way I'm considering sharing lately. Thank you so much for your videos and your devotion to all of us ❤

[@dplj4428]

6:30 “She never abandoned her art.” - My mind translated into “She never abandoned her self”. - 11:10 self-expression. 13:33 Give yourself permission to be. 15:16 earned by getting skill, too, with emphasis on being the butterfly who emerged to self-discovery shared with us.

[@AlvynArt]

10000% resonate with this. The exact answer i was looking for, it showed up just when i needed it. You articulating my frustrations as if you were in my own head, that is an art in itself. Thankyou.

[@CholaRoja]

Thank you very much, Adam. Today I learned another super important lesson that got me out from another mental block. You're always there for me when I need help and inspiration. Thank you very much.

[@Xenotork]

Throughout my own art journey over the past few years, i have found that creating art that is in service to others as a gift of inspiration (Fan-art) that you make without the recipiant's knowledge, often feels more refreshing and fulfilling whenever im in a down-slope with my own personal ideas and creativity. Take time to browse your active art communities and pay attention to anything related to "If only", "I need to", "I have to", and "I want to get art made/done of so-and-so." It's up to you weather or not you want to take on some of these projects on, figure out what the subject is and what needs to get done. Work on the piece and just send the finished piece to them through DMs. Don't take on work that requires more of a cooperative back-and-forth. Just simple portraits or illustration pieces should suffice. you end up forming more connections and get people interested in commissioning you in this way, just don't overdo yourself, focus on your work more so. This is just to help re-inspire your passion if it's running low. It's helped me in dark times.

[@blackhoundrise8431]

Defo need to have a podcast. Always good to have voices like yours offline and online anywhere anytime. Thank you Adam

[@NanaChibukhashvili-v5l]

I love you too, you are so good, so warm, so hopeful, so authentic

[@_casg]

LETSSSS GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. My other theory why we proscrastinate is because of the orgonomics of the desk. Sitting on that chair for too long lower blood pressure in your buttocks and hence making you drowsy and no energy to focus. I suggest finding a workflow that literally makes your body move around. Either a standing desk, or have to rooms for different tasks, projectors on walls, artist stands, or palettes. Basically create art while moving thru space time.

[@oredaze]

7:00 I actually cried here, seriously did. If you don't count movies, I don't remember last time that happened. I have been struggling with life stuff and money and my psychology and recently AI and eventually found myself not young anymore, having never pursued art very much. And I am pretty sure that you are correct - I will always be into it, thus I made wrong life choices and wasted my time...! It is sufficiently clear that I should do it as fast as possible. The question is: 1. do I try to succeed professionally or 2. do I detach money from art and continue with boring 9-5 jobs that remove the anxiety of survival from my mind or 3. do I proceed without deciding in advance? Thanks for making heart felt videos, you get a heart felt comment from me.

[@Envy_Level_Zero]

So I found about two reddits for beginner artists. I get that desire to help them avoid my mistakes and make their work easier. Which reminded me of my most productive days when I did art on deviant art and we shared our art in the forums for a critique. Seeing the progress from the back and forth art advice exchange made me feel like I'm improving and that I have value to the community.

[@TCGMultiverse]

Every once in a while, you finally find a golden ticket of an answer you've been soul-searching deep in the depths of your existence for. In the highest respect, I felt like I just watched an older version of myself say the things I've been trying to piece together in my head. I can't count how many times I said 'wow' watching this. Your teaching and ways of constructing a meaningful message really resonate with me. I'm blessed to feel the impact from this video. @AdamDuffArt

[@skybluebrad2781]

Thank you for mentioning for the feeling as an artist that your failing, because your just not in the right environment/field. I started my own art through commissions and have worked at my speed. It's getting better, but those days got me wondering if I was really being an artist. It has shocked me the people that still want my art even when I've had long wait times, and when just life events happened and stopped me from putting the time I wanted to into it. That really helps so much sir, and thank you again.

[@prismono]

The language you use to describe our journeys as artists is so inspiring! I always love sitting down and playing your art discussion videos while I'm working on my own art. You've been fundamental in really getting me to think about my own life and journey as an artist and how I can improve that relationship with the work that I produce! I feel very similar to you in that the 9-5 studio work just isn't for me. I've been pursuing a freelance illustration and concept art career since 2014 and, even though it's felt like a treacherous journey, I've never felt as fulfilled as I do right here-being able to fully put my artistic voice out there and letting my creativity flourish without feeling boxed in. I want to continue developing my skills and putting myself out there as much as I can, so thank you for giving artists an avenue to sit with these topics and reflect on how we can better our artistic growth (and mental health). Always look forward to the videos you put out! 💙💙

[@keva_artwork]

I did art school but we didn't learn how to express ourselves, so I'm still trying to figure out how to do that. I also have a degree for graphic design but I don't like making things that are not me if that makes sense. And also not having people around that believe in what I do makes it really difficult too. But I keep going and hopefully I figure out how to express myself in my art and share that with others.

[@Wrathgir]

It's kinda like what makes me do art streams. I like showing the process of making art. I like interacting with people while I work on my comics/art. It also gets me to sit down and actually work. I am not as productive when I am alone at times. It gets me to hyper focus on my art and it deels good to show what I can do to others. Though sometimes I feel my anxiety gets the best of me and it's hard to stream. I try to take time to relax and not overthink that I have to do this daily. My former 9 to 5 type job was so draining that I felt like a robot. Trying not to be that way, but still productive. I also went to college for animation. I just hated when they kinda forced me to have 3d in my portfolio cause they thought, at the time, that 2d was dead. It burnt me out how much they failed me and said I can do better 3d stuff. Which I never felt passionate about Maya. So I just left without my bachelor's and didn't work on any 3d models or anything 3d for years. I have been playing around with some of blender somewhat now, but really I enjoy my comics/artwork more. Have been doing some art for friends I met online. It makes me happy to draw something for them even if I don't get paid sometimes. Just something to make them happy. 😊 Also I grew up in the gamer era too. Started with the Atari 800 my dad owned and kinda grew up with being a gamer. It's inspired me to make stories as comics.

[@skybluebrad2781]

Adam always helping me make sense of this journey ❤❤❤❤

[@George-ls7dd]

Dude... Such a truth speaker. Thanks.

[@ambubb]

I recently started to watch your videos, while I draw. and they are just wonderfully realxing and thoughtful, so that my body can feel at peace while my mind can follow your thoughts. I appreciate what you do a lot and wanted to thank you for sharing your thoughts 💖

[@ilikac6390]

Thank you Adam!

[@somatrasoeun9741]

As I make this comment, this can make sense to whoever. But I went into this deep hyperfocus mode, and I needed to rewatch this video a couple too many times and rewinds to understand what you're saying and talking about, and it began to resonate more and more. I graduated University just about a year ago, I found myself working as a contracted Graphic Designer, and I did all these cool things, and found myself doing projects that I really loved but the longer I kept working at this place this sickening feeling of burnout steamed rolled through my window and took by a storm and flattened me out. But before I graduated, I was taking 3-4 studio classes, and I had already worked another design job at the same time. I was a mess, I was already burnout. Really I lost myself, who I was as an artist. That contracting job, I got fired from it, and I didn't know what to do. The lesson that I learned was that the work that I was doing in all of these high paced environments from University to work, was that no ounce of me, of who I was, the emotion, the time to work through and think wasn't there. Then that little ounce of me still left inside said, screw it, I want to travel, because I needed to gain an ounce of who I am, a rediscover, a different perspective. Non the less, I'll never stop creating, it is ingrained in me like the time I was once a child.

[@art_haert]

Damn. This was exactly all the point I have been wanting to hear but didn't know how to ask the right questions for. Thank you, Teacher.

[@fleurdeb7803]

Your thoughts and feelings as an artist were the medicine I needed today. You echo and speak to my unwritten journal entries and helped me feel seen and understood. Merci beaucoups, Adam. Namaste'. 💖🕯🙏

[@emmamariamakes]

This was the first video I've seen today after waking up and the background music and relaxed voice are very nice ❤

[@wednes3day]

This feels like it's more dor the mid to post art-school folks in terms of skills and experience? Or it feels like it's geared to a rather specific sort of personal mindset behind and/or around doing art (in a way that felt like important context to view the video through from the start, rather than be clued into only at the very end)

[@MyBrosephstalin]

I feel like most of Adams vids are for the professional artist or soon to be in the industry. The titles are usually very broad but the info is mostly from Adams personal life and targeted at a very specific group of people.

[@wednes3day]

@@MyBrosephstalin Mhm! It does feel like it tends to be two categories of inspiration/target people? His (more ore less) and his students, which usually makes for relatively widely applicable content? This feels like it was a good bit more limited in scope than usual without being clear enough about that (for me to get it before the last lines) ... and idk how nurturing this advice is for someone who isn't yet at that established point but more likely to be a student?

[@jothewizard]

Somehow you have yet again made sure I do not feel alone in my artistic journey. Thank you so much for all you do and share.

[@Paopao621]

Hey man, I just wanna say thank you for being such a good influence to me as an artist and as a human in general, you really did helped me a lot, Thank you.

[@suzume_artz]

Really needed to hear this today. The reason why I make art & I'm so drawn towards it in the first place is because it's a form of self expression for me. There was a time when I was burning myself out, forcing myself to be productive & produce more art when it felt like it just wasn't good enough. Now, whenever I paint something new, there's always someone who says that they can feel the energy in that artwork. A lot of that self growth is thanks to your art talks, Adam. You have no idea how insightful & inspirational your words have been for my artistic journey. Thank you for existing

[@LeslieNicole]

This is coming to me at a good time. I love creating, but I’ve lost my motivation in my own work. I think a lot of that is that I’m feeling a need for CONNECTION. I’ve been drawn towards starting a regular KZbin channel and perhaps that is going to give me the motivation for my creativity. It’s interesting. I have a degree in Fine Arts and I’ve been creating for 40 years, but I prefer to think of myself as a Designer as well.

[@ThePaperboi]

As Always just a blessing to hear you speak about the things that are dear to our hearts as a Artist. Thank you for always keeping up the mood, and give some perfect examples for us to keep going. Love the Paperboi

[@ChantelleArts]

you always word everything so perfectly ❤

[@eerielles]

Thank you, Adam.

[@CyberValeth]

I am at a similar junction where my time as a caretaker is over, my grandmother passed last month. I am now alone in this house, aside from my own fluffball. Work has cut hours, I'm tired doing retail work all this time. And now with the extra time of not being on edge of tending to the needs of my grandparents. I'm turning to creative endeavors, right now I'm streaming gameplay, but I'm gathering references to honestly sit down and not just learn/teach myself art. I am now finally taking an idea of a world and its characters and bringing them to light visually instead of written down somewhere. Now? I think I need to do this, not just for me but like you said for others as well. I'm not a teacher, but if anything I do helps or if I can or it heads there? I'm not going to deny it. If I could I'd love to take up your program, if only to just talk while we work. But maybe someday it's possible when I've reached a point where I'm more comfortable. Thank you, this video definitely was a boost I needed.

[@ArtofWEZ]

This is so real, you put my own thoughts into great words

[@numarocchietta1290]

Thank you Adam this is what I needed to hear.

[@minliiart]

Thanks for the new video as great as ever

[@damunda9963]

that was a beautiful topic and thank you Adam for your inspiring thoughts !!

[@boubkerelamri4027]

Adam is the person that turned my life from shit to amazing, just Thank you Adam for Everything 🤗

[@sudenkallo]

I love you so much man! Was going through some really dark things, but you always help me get back to the ground. Thank you so much and never stop doing what you do!!!

[@MarlonEilert]

I'm here once again to thank you Adam for changing my perspective of things in my times of doubt!

[@tsudaki4610]

thanks a lot for this talk, Adam.

[@DigitalBrooke]

This is helping me get through an employment thing. Well. You have been more than usual. Thank you, sensei.

[@_Geist]

needed this. thank you, sir.

[@barttr]

Thanks so much for this talk Adam, you've managed to crystallise a number of issues which have been driving me completely nuts for some time now. I'm so seriously thankful for your channel which has kept me afloat at critical moments 🤗

[@jadymulqueeney]

Thanks, very true

[@Houdini_Bob]

thank you Adam, terrific words

[@dorime4711]

What a great video that resonates with me a lot, thank you Adam ❤

[@JayBee504]

Thank you man.

[@LTinator]

Hi, author here. Rest assured, the morale of your video rings true even with someone who works more often with ink (words) than paint. Cheers!

[@victoriayuart]

This was really helpful and really inspirational! A game changer! Thank you again so much Adam! Really appreciate the wonders you giving to fellow artists and friends!

[@danieljamiesonillustrates]

Wow always great to listen to these videos.

[@LIZzardtheWizard]

I’m an animation student struggling to make progress on their senior film. I really needed to hear this, but it’s scary because I know I’m not someone that thrives well as a 9-5 artist. I’m not sure where my career is going but I can’t give up

[@navoriitepesh4661]

Thank you

[@annylaurie422]

Your story has really resonated with me especially who I am producing my art for

[@zack_feldman]

Thanks for this, Adam! It’s been on my mind as well lately. Hope you are healing up and the family is well!

[@thirdrockjul2224]

Fascinating story! ❤

[@veneficarius]

man its gold! i needed this!

[@marionrookard8782]

Your videos always excite me. I am very glad that I have found you in my artistic journey! I have wondered, have you considered creating a series of podcasts for Spotify or any other platform? I would love to listen to a podcast series by you if you ever do! You are a wonderful person and I love the community you're creating as well. I hope to one day take part in your mentorship program, you have really given me so much inspiration and joy in my artistic journey. Thank you, Adam!!

[@jordanjardine2458]

Great talk man. Thanks for this.

[@ZTRCTGuy]

This, is quite a good argument. I'm a hobbyist artist but I have an engineering degree and that's probably gonna be my main job. However I do want to do art commissions, but I cannot stay consistent in drawing for the life of me. My livelihood doesn't depend on art, or money or anything significant and that's why I lack the drive. I'm drawing about 2 or 3 times a week on average and that's just not gonna cut it. Sometimes I make free art for people, and they really aren't people to look a gift horse in the mouth. Doing comissions and providing a service (including emotions) for other people however makes you acountable, is going to impact you with demand. They're paying you for a service and that might very well make me more consistent. But taking that plunge into making commissions is... very scary, lol.