Creating art can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it can also be frustrating when you hit what is commonly known as the “ugly stage.” This is the phase in the creative process when your work-in-progress looks like a mess and you may start to doubt your skills and vision. It can be difficult to push past this stage, but it’s important to remember that it’s a natural part of the creative process. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips for pushing past the ugly stage of creating art.

Embrace the Process

The creative process is not a linear one. It’s messy, unpredictable, and can be frustrating at times. But it’s important to remember that the ugly stage is just a phase in the process. It’s an opportunity to experiment and make mistakes, and to learn from them. Embrace the process and try to enjoy the journey, even if it’s not always smooth sailing.

Take a Break

When you’re feeling stuck or frustrated, sometimes the best thing you can do is take a break. Step away from your work for a little while, and do something else that you enjoy. This can help clear your mind and give you a fresh perspective when you return to your art.

Get Feedback

Sometimes it can be helpful to get feedback from others. Ask a trusted friend or mentor for their opinion on your work, and listen to their feedback with an open mind. It can be difficult to hear criticism, but it can also be incredibly valuable in helping you improve your skills and move past the ugly stage.

Keep Going

It can be tempting to give up when you hit the ugly stage, but it’s important to keep going. Don’t let the frustration or self-doubt hold you back. Push through and keep working on your art, even if it’s not perfect. Remember that every artist has to work through the ugly stage at some point, and that the end result is often worth the effort.

Trust Yourself

Finally, it’s important to trust yourself and your vision. Remember why you started creating art in the first place, and trust that your unique perspective and style will shine through in your work. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things, even if they don’t always work out. Trust yourself, and know that with time and practice, you will continue to grow and improve as an artist.

In conclusion, the ugly stage of creating art can be a difficult and frustrating phase in the creative process. But by embracing the process, taking breaks, getting feedback, keeping going, and trusting yourself, you can push past this stage and create something truly beautiful. Remember to be patient with yourself, and don’t give up on your art. Keep pushing forward, and you will see the results of your hard work and dedication.