"Understand Your WHY" (The Outstanding Artist - S3 E4)

With 10 artists remaining, they were challenged to cross the threshold and paint what lies beyond it while being inspired from the beauty of the Greek architecture around them. This emotionally-charged episode took each artist on a journey, watch now to see how they cross the threshold to the other side.
Check out the artists here (listed alphabetically):
Anna Bostrom - www.annabostromart.com/
Bri Fitzpatrick - brianalfitzpatrick.com/
Eva Bratopoulou - www.evabratopoulou.com/
Jessi Dahlquist - jessidoll.com/
Katrina Koltes - katrinakoltes.com/
Melissa Burghardt - www.melissaburghardt.com/
Naomi Jayne - naomijayneart.bigcartel.com/
Nicolette Van den Hadelkamp - nicolettefineart.com/
Ritika Aurora - ritikaaurorafineart.com/
Tarana Labuche - labuche.art/
Tanya Aubut - www.tanyaaubut.com/
Tanya Johnston - tanyajohnstonart.com/
Zybrena Porter - www.zybrena.com/
Connect with the judges:
Dimitra Milan - www.dimitramilan.com
Elli Milan - www.ellimilan.com
John Milan - www.djfreezyj.com
Discover your passion for art and develop your skills with us. If you like this video make sure to subscribe to our channel for more content.
Your art career starts here. Check out the Mastery Program where you'll learn how to paint, draw and create like a master, then market and sell your artwork like a pro. It's where you'll turn your passion into a profession. Click here to learn more: bit.ly/3sSqMC4
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[@ZiaSunshine]

I'm sorry, but the "Why" concept...as if you have to have been through trauma or even that your trauma is the whole reason you are an artist and your art just HAS to represent all that is the silliest thing I've ever heard! What if people create art because they love being creative? I am an artist and I create art because I love to create art. It's as simple as that. I would love to see a variety in the artwork too. The stuff these women paint is ok, but there are so many other styles out there. It's interesting that this show represents them as having different styles when they are all the same.

[@ArtyAntics]

I don’t see them as the same, they all have individuality. They focus on story because it’s part of marketing/branding which is what they teach in their mastery program. Elli’s story wasn’t about trauma it was about connecting people with art.

[@Catsandcamera]

I agree. I think the 'why' is a weird one, there doesn't need to be a big identity crisis on why you create something - like you said, it could be simply that you like doing it. And I agree with the second point - not that the paintings are just 'ok', because I think that's a disservice to the artists, but I do agree that the styles are all incredibly similar. Like, if I saw all of these paintings in a room I wouldn't necessarily think they were all from different artists. Then they tell the artists to all be individual, but then for example go up to the woman who uses neon colours and tell her to use more neutrals? I will continue to watch, but if it's really a competition, and they are really 'challenges' lets challenge them to not put a young woman's face slap bang in the painting as the main subject every time, that would be interesting.

[@karenwithak4770]

So true. Very same, same and boring. I'm also an artist, i don't have a story but just love to create.

[@Tore1972Wisdom]

All people have a story, som more and some less. When that said, i also think they all have the same style, but i like that kind of style. I think they have similar style, because the all took the mastery program. I´m an artist to, but paint where my idears take me. Still i learn something new from watching these programs and what art social has to offer.

[@damonreed292]

Art is about being vulnerable so whether directly or indirectly, your why is a part of that... but if it's just your hobby, then I understand

[@CappPeterson]

I find it interesting that all their work almost seems like it could be made by the same person.

[@annawright654]

My heart breaks for Eva, the stories every one told where about the courage to move through their pain. Fear of rejection is one of the most painful emotional experiences. The courage to tell the truth, is her road to healing. God bless on her journey.

[@StephanieGagos]

I've known Katrina for quite a while now and am a huge fan of her art. I am grateful for her sharing her story. She is such a gifted human being, beautiful, inside and out.

[@TanyaAubut-xx8ki]

what a powerful episode!!! ❤ missing all these incredible women so much!!! 🥰

[@nicolettevandenhadelkamp3156]

❤

[@janinafisher101]

I really loved your painting, Tanya! It is so different from your usual work, but also filled with light and colour and positive energy. It would be fun to see more work like this. Sending hugs!

[@artsbyjojo]

This episode released so many emotions in me. Hearing Katrina's story was heartbreaking, I can kind of relate to her a little bit but what she went through is unimaginable. I'm so glad she shares her art!

[@SashaFitzgerald]

I was heartbroken by her story too. To go through so much trauma and yet be able to create and share such beautiful art with the world is awe inspiring.

[@katrinakoltes]

Thank you so much girls, that means the world to me! It's so difficult to be open and share our story but by doing so I hoped to inspire others and bring some light in the world. xox

[@ArtyAntics]

@@katrinakoltes I’m a trafficking survivor but I’ve resisted telling my story in my art. I was worried people would think it’s depressing but your work was so powerful. Seeing you be so brave and making beautiful art is making me rethink things 💜

[@katrinakoltes]

Gosh you have been through some terrible things yourself, you are a true survivor and warrior ❤

[@shantalgroer7703]

I started watching this show because I absolutely adore Katrina's work. Hearing her why makes each piece even more powerful. You've inspired me from the very first lesson I took with you, Katrina. You certainly make a difference and bring lots of love and colour into this world. All you artists are amazing, your stories are powerful and watching you paint is phenomenal. Anna, you are wonderful! 💜 Thanks for putting this show together, Milan Institute. You always give such wonderful lessons, advise and now this show. Loving it 😊

[@katrinakoltes]

thank you so much for your encouragement, it means the world to me! xox

[@anitasmith7764]

I see they have finally wised up the last couple challenges and put them in the shade/ not completely horrible conditions. So glad.

[@SashaFitzgerald]

Hearing all these women’s stories of things they’ve been through in life… I just wanted to give them all hugs. Life can be a rough road, and they are all so strong. They all made amazing paintings! I think my favourite piece in this round was Katrina’s. It was breathtaking. I’m sad about what happened with Eva, I wish she hadn’t let her insecurities ruin her chances in the competition. Looking forward to the next episode!

[@katrinakoltes]

thank you so much xoxox

[@carmennavar6961]

wow Jake has been amazing in these episodes what courage with the toughest job!!!!!!

[@barbaralouisebenjamin5918]

Being consistently effective with picture making (not because it sells) should matter. Art is not about chance but practice. Understanding colour, line, texture, composition, perspective, value, tone etc. is key.

[@anjilala]

Very brave Eva, you showed your strength. 💕🙏

[@rockrimmondream9244]

When will the next episode be available? Thanks

[@charlied415]

There was a lot of vulnerability in this episode. I don't know if I could have been that open. I admire them for being able to. They brought real beauty through it. ❤

[@Tore1972Wisdom]

I love katrina´s painting. So powerful and so spiritual. For me it speaks so much of freedom and coming home, to ones true self, wehere there is endless love and creativity. It´s just so beautiful done. When that said, i´m sorry you had to go through that.

[@Jaxfrancisart]

When is the 5th episode please??

[@jkell07]

where the heck is the new episode!?

[@brendaarmstrong9222]

When is the next show airing?

[@Lexibellington]

when will the new episode be released? such a good show!

[@daviniacoomber]

What an episode! ❤ So many emotions onto the canvas- I think I teared up all the way through. Beautiful work ladies ❤

[@miss_sunshine]

What happened with the 5th episode?

[@TriniRoyQuiReyes]

"The Why" is such an interesting topic to pin Point before starting out as an artist 👍 Thank You for sharing

[@suzanneland5509]

Only just found this recently - because I follow Katrina. But very episodes is so bittersweet because every single one of these artists are so talented and not only poring their heart and soul into this challenge but exposing their innermost pain and traumas to the world - they are all winners!

[@maiartoldaccount]

I love this episodes that they told their stories which have given thoughts of life, thanks :)

[@jadedjhypsi]

My dad was Army too and we moved around sooo much. Her story about not being able to focus on your own interests cuz one is so busy trying to just make friends once again .... this rang true to my heart and hurt! I am watching this series now to help me get past that. I have also had an abortion I would of never done on my own and never mourned this lose so healing all around today

[@lotusflowerpassion]

Stunning work Ladies love your Art and sending love , your vulnerabilities and speaking out is so brave and beautiful . healing vibes your way.

[@barbi111]

So beautiful paintings!

[@spktme]

This episode definitely pulls at the heart strings, and I find myself way more invested than I expected to be. I like so many other comments agree that it would be nice for them to have the painting on screen flashed for each person as they are judged and to have more concrete reasons why they were in the bottom so that we all learn as we watch kind of thing. The other thing I've seen in the comments as I caught up with the show was so many people acting like this is apart of the institute when it's not. This is a totally separate reality show and not even the first of its kind that the artists decided to enter knowing what was going to go on and how it works. Like any other reality show it's a competition and you are going to be judged and eliminated these artists know that and signed up still. Stop acting like this is such a betrayal against art. Yes, art is subjective and beauty is in the eye of the beholder but if they entered any art shows or competition or tried for any art society etc. They will judge and determine if you get in and prizes etc. Same if trying to get in a gallery someone judges if they think it would sell or not and they do that with a bias. Those comments aren't based in reality. I would love to see more diverse art and agree with the comments about the judges liking the art that's most like theirs but even that's to be expected since these artists all came from the Milan institute. They've been taught by the judges and like all of us they are going to be drawn to what they like the most. But, hey maybe if this gets picked up or is successful maybe then they can get judges and artists from all over so we see more diversity. The one who did the colorful hands was the only one I really disagreed with, but it's not my show and I understand that.😂

[@myartsymindteracolleen5649]

I’m anxiously waiting for episode 5, when can we expect that.

[@lizzieyeehaw5016]

This was a great episode. I’m so glad to see a group of women appreciated for their contribution, talent and for their skills as whole people with their(her) own dreams and goals and not just in an ancillary role such as mother, sister, daughter etc. It’s so important to see girls and women in our own space without men because we gals have our own personalities and culture to celebrate. These ladies are all outstanding people and artists! Good job Milans for providing the opportunity and example. This is so appreciated. ❤️

[@danielmarlatt3574]

Another good episode , everyone has a story , good or bad , it really takes courage to share , thanks again Art Social , looking forward to the next.

[@mariaetheridge8343]

When is the next episode coming out, please?

[@pamelawoods7185]

When will the next episodes be released?

[@anjilala]

I loved Zybrena's, beautiful powerful composition and beautifully executed 💕💕💕😎

[@Marci-Yah777]

I loved Zybrena’s painting beautiful piece. (I think that’s how it’s spelt 😂)

[@brendawillems4804]

It was nice to see that Eli was more kind in her judging. So much better for the positive energy! But boy what does she talk long about herself 😅

[@tinkerquinn8580]

When does the next episode come out?

[@rljuarez2645]

Thank you so much for sharing your stories, ladies! What a wonderful episode and beautiful paintings! Does anyone know if the rest of the episodes will be made available?

[@gimmeachance7059]

Please add the following episodes...What are you waiting for ? Waiting forever please !!!!

[@kfergus3662]

Don’t let anyone to Dictate you about your artwork

[@allisonjames2923]

What an interesting group of women with such varied life experience. It’s funny how I think there’s so much depression around these days, particularly obvious during times like Christmas & the New Year, often because so many people see the Disneyesque image of close happy families coming together to spend time with each other, laughing, gently teasing, playing, loving etc. And that reality is actually so rare. Families are usually messy, incomplete or made up of non-traditional elements. People put these expectations on themselves & others & are then stressed out & disappointed when they don’t come to fruition. People are mixed like these ladies - a whole range of pain, love, loneliness, acceptance, difficulty fitting in, being part of complex communities etc. And then other people hear these women open up & some people are thinking “I’m not like that. I’m just normal & I like making art.” I guess it’s one reason we create new things as a species - because we’re rarely content in our own skins, rarely content standing still, not doing. I’m a Paramedic & I encounter so many people these days who literally don’t know how to be content by themselves. How to spend time with themselves & it makes them anxious & depressed. When other people would desperately love time & space to be alone to be able to think, to create. Oh what a tangled web we weave indeed 🤷‍♀️

[@dewarb8311]

I agree cherub..painting comes from the love of creating born from our love of our surroundings and connection with life

[@jenferris6879]

They are all extremely talented. I would hate to have judge

[@rljuarez2645]

Does anyone know if the rest of the episodes will be made available?

[@kathleenwildey2757]

When are you going to upload episode 5?

[@Tore1972Wisdom]

It´s every thursday.

[@kathleenwildey2757]

@@Tore1972Wisdom it was not uploaded last Thursday, will it be done on the 7th?

[@Tore1972Wisdom]

@@kathleenwildey2757* I also wondered if i remembered wrong about last thursday. I think that was episode 4. there should be an upload this thursday i hope so.

[@kathleenwildey2757]

@@Tore1972Wisdom Ok, is there a problem with the episode 5? Sorry to bother you but I love the videos so far, I am hooked.

[@Tore1972Wisdom]

@@kathleenwildey2757* Hi Kathleen. First i don´t have anything to do with art social. I think they don´t upload anymore, because they want us to pay for it, on they community channel. I don´t want to pay to see the rest, so it´s up to people, what they want.

[@cloudsofsunset7323]

Well! that was definetly a surprise. I am pretty sure Eva wouldn't have done it if she didn't feel the pressure. It's sad, but I guess she can learn from it.

[@charlied415]

When is episode 5 coming out?

[@donitafichter8298]

I think the “why?” could also have just been that they love to paint. I didn’t see the direction as needing to have a trauma based story. 🤷🏻‍♀️. Just a backstory of their why.

[@acceptingWhatIS]

self sabotaged

[@Carolinamoonbeam66]

Gosh I just paint cos I like to, it’s my peaceful, fun time. No trauma

[@timdanyo898]

My WHY is to reveal what is hidden so that others can see and be transformed.

[@artsbyjojo]

I'm wondering who would have had to go if Eva didn't say anything but also I was so weirded out when she opened up about it. Like her honesty is remarkable but still: Why would you do that?

[@tinkerquinn8580]

Maybe she knew she couldn't live with the guilt if she didn't say something. She knew she wasn't going home when they called her name since she wasn't one of the last two & she couldn't allow someone else to be sent home when she knew it should be her.

[@cloudsofsunset7323]

honeeestly... very difficult to tell, all of them are so amazing artists. All of them super skilled and all of their artworks in this episode great!

[@ivi122]

I would question more why did she cheat than why did she come clean? Integrity matters

[@PiperMarie-lf4ky]

(This is all in the behind the scenes newsletter) It was supposed to be Tarana. Tarana knew about Eva’s canvas before they started but didn’t say anything until after the challenge because hers was at the bottom. Meanwhile, Tarana and the director were being inappropriate and spending alone time together( this was against rules to avoid favoritism and inappropriateness). Tarana overheard a private conversation between Elli and the director saying they wanted to eliminate Tarana. Tarana admitted to this, got p!$$ed and left with the director who had a massive sh!t f!t and basically tried to get everyone to leave the show. Sooo yeah lol.

[@tinkerquinn8580]

@@PiperMarie-lf4ky where do you find the newsletter

[@tanja-lotta7064]

When is the next episode coming out?

[@Miaa_Glow]

id like a better showcase of all the completed pieces at the end

[@milanartapp]

Thank you for the valuable feedback! We love hearing from our fans, and this helps us improve the show for future seasons.

[@lor5850]

​@@milanartappi agree i think the whole point is to showcase their art also

[@lor5850]

​@@milanartappi also think allowing them to hear feedbacks helps them grow

[@ivi122]

I agree. I love to see the paintings more and especially more up close. I also like when they give critiques and not just be nice. They need to hear the truth even if it makes them sad or ppl on the comments complain. It’s ok to be critical about someone’s painting in a competition that’s going to make them win money

[@stephaniehill-manuel]

I like the idea of this show but it all feel very forced. I love watching the art being created though!

[@janinafisher101]

Any reality show has an element of that.

[@AustonP]

Are there no more episodes?

[@jinimurray4090]

I’d rather see the group come closer so a comradry to leave supporting and perhaps life long relationships better than break so painfully - ouch! This isn’t for me

[@sleepyheadsymphonies2640]

You need to show more of the artwork and put their names in the screen when they speak.

[@jinimurray4090]

I love Greece- but I could not be there

[@kymcrowart7876]

If Anna’s painting was dark and some of them are always like that, isn’t that part of her style? Should it be in the bottom because of that? No

[@whitemistcreativestudios]

I think Katrina won this one

[@susanbrown-sj3vq]

They ask for architecture, but they mostly paint figures (young females) one trick ponies.

[@barbarahill4812]

At 20.40 what did she say

[@Bindismom]

I think their program misses it on several issues. First, why aren’t the artist’s allowed to explain what each of their paintings is expressing to the judges?….why would they ever tell the artist to change color or composition! Art is so subjective, they are all at the mercy of another artists opinion….just seems a bit useless to me. It’s not like baking or sewing. I love each artist….the judges…..not so much.

[@ivi122]

Well the artists knew what they were getting into im sure and besides the winner is getting a prize at the end given by the judges so they have the right to “judge” their paintings and give them suggestions

[@ME-fo7si]

I thought the concept for the pice was architecture, most seem to have painted their vision of themselves.

[@WedgyBlue]

Is Digital art allow here?

[@lulasnannajodie7723]

its not real art though - yes digital artists can create amazing images but every hue is aleady created for the user, its a skill to create colours, digital art lacks human energy and thats what makes art art - art is created 100% by human hand, every brush stroke contains the artist's energy - every feeling and emotion they have ever felt is in every stroke. digital is emotionless - this is a real art academy

[@WedgyBlue]

@lulasnannajodie7723 Even I sketch it first? Then I uploaded it on my phone? I did this, it is because my phone is old and It can't handle longer hours for drawing. it drains battery. Even if I sell, I can't do it physically. I rely on online for selling.

[@rolo4945]

Eva self sabotaged, so sad !

[@IslandGirl755]

Don’t know why they take their coveralls

[@charlied415]

I have to agree. I know it's a symbolic gesture of them leaving, but why can't they just keep their overalls. They already go through the door which is a gesture in and of itself. I mean they're not leaving with a suitcase and they have to have belongings they brought with them, the door is obviously symbolic. Please just let them keep their overalls.

[@mariaa8224]

​@@charlied415I wonder if it's just for show. I would guess they give them back to the contestants. What are they gonna do with all those overalls afterwards? It would be a waste.

[@charlottespicer8737]

I find this very odd also. They are personalized what are they going to do with them now? I find all reality shows odd. This one is simply to sell their classes.

[@lulasnannajodie7723]

id like to see the camera more on the art rather than on the painter, - other than that i love this channel

[@susanjane4784]

The art therapy episode. Interesting but awkward considering previous episodes.

[@anitasmith7764]

I don’t know if the judges should really be telling the artists what their view should be of their journey. A couple times during the critique in the middle the tried to tell them what they (as the judge) saw in their threshold etc. this is supposed to b about what the artist sees in their own journey. And the judge can do w that what they will.

[@freedomxgarcia]

Maybe just say what you like about not what u don’t when u critique… especially for a self reflection canvas

[@SheltonBaldwin-en6nj]

Sowhat happened to whatever helps the artist succeed in their painting

[@nataliebarat1186]

Can someone from @artsocial please let us know when to expect the next episode? They say it drops every Thursday but then it doesn't...Thanks so much!

[@MichelHubert-ff8kq]

Quelle misère la télé (réalité)

[@margaretpinsent6388]

Having a 'source' sounds like having something to copy from... I had no idea that's what painters do! Really!!?

[@jenniferscalia7214]

sources are just like anything that inspires...such as standing outside and painting a nature scene or an apple on a table for a still life.....or a person posing....a photo for a portrait .....its to use for proportions and inspirations....not direct copies of a photo unless its a portrait commission.....not all artists paint out of their heads...many use a source of some kind....depending on the style, the technique...etc.

[@graceful-shakti9019]

Jske I love you but shhhhhhh

[@altl888]

That last minute! Just shhhhhhhh! 😂

[@becre8tive199]

I love the idea of supporting the arts and artists with TV exposure, but I don't like the competitive drama format. I wish everyone good luck in their lives and their creative careers. I just can't watch the artificial pressure being placed on them through this "only one winner" approach. Hey Milan Art, I would rather see features about each artist and their life, their artistic process and the works produced. Let's grow past this stress-inducing approach to "entertainment".

[@khalidrashid3838]

i do not agree with this type of competition.. this is degrading and will affect the confidence of so called' failed' creatives .this is not how artiest should be empowered

[@lulasnannajodie7723]

not at all - ya gotta be open to criticism, rejection or failure if you put your art work out to the world - many of the 'greats' works were rejected - only after death they received accolade

[@holisticways.]

I don’t like it , breaking peoples hearts. I would never want to win if involved others disappointment in such a sad way

[@ivi122]

It’s a competition. It’s not ok to compete anymore these days? Common toughen up

[@holisticways.]

no!!!!@@ivi122

[@lulasnannajodie7723]

thats what competitions are - only one winner - ya gotta be thick skinned to be an artist and that goes for writing and musicians to

[@janinafisher101]

My perspective is that everyone grows through challenges. We all face bigger and smaller disappointments in our life. All these women are artists who know that art is subjective, that people will judge their work, and that this is an opportunity to work under pressure. We would likely all judge differently if we were in the position of the judges, so the contestants take what they get and use the information and critique based on where they are in their lives. Nobody is breaking their hearts - they feel heartbroken. There is a difference. A bone that is broken is strongest where it has mended. This is the opportunity for people to build strength and resilience in the face of disappointment. They are all winners already for having been chosen for the competition!

[@cojamescojames4762]

Why is it all women artists doesn't make sense

[@lulasnannajodie7723]

maybe only women applied - i know more female artists than male artists

[@sarahk5612]

They only had females apply

[@Captain_MonsterFart]

What the hell is this?

[@katella]

😂 my thoughts exactly

[@freedomxgarcia]

Y the heck would you critique someone’s painting when you said paint your why…like that’s just rude…it’s is a expression challenge the other ones weren’t which is okay to critique but not this challenge

[@lulasnannajodie7723]

without critque one doesnt learn a thing

[@janinafisher101]

There are technical aspects to painting - things that work, and things that don't work. They are not critiquing the subject, but how it is portrayed. These are valuable lessons for an artist. And they are their own worst critics!

[@Opa773]

I was enjoying this show until i heard the divisive statement about empowering women 😢😢😢 ENOUGH ALEADY .

[@georgeszurbach444]

Whats all this Why bullshit .Art under all its form is for pleasure and you may or npt make a living out of it.I feel sorry for those participants being fed total junk psychology by amateurish mentors.

[@jenniferedwards922]

they are really tacky paintings terrible more like graffitti art very bawdy

[@tomjones9519]

I thought the goal was architecture.

[@NivesUljan]

No, the goal was to paint ther Why - why do they paint - abd include architectural elements in the painting

[@tomjones9519]

@@NivesUljan they all paint the same

[@NivesUljan]

That's a different topic, but I guess that's because they have all attended the Milan Art school

[@katella]

​@@NivesUljanthat must be a bogus art training center. What they are painting has nothing to do with art or Milan! Some kind of shite American rip off diploma mill for ignorant people. What a shame.

[@janinafisher101]

@@NivesUljanActually I heard the instruction to say "be inspired by the architecture." I never heard it stated that they had to include architectural elements.

[@tomjones9519]

are you serious? The focus was architecture............