How to stop comparing you art with others?

[winglesscomic]

Funny, I drew something the other day that denotes my feels while seeing all the artists here that far surpass my laughable skill.

When I see someone I like, I study their art, HARD (after crying to myself). Scrutinize the shit out of it. Every single brushstroke. This has led me to be inconsistent in my art because I'm always trying to emulate artists I'm jealous of, in a horrid amalgamation of different styles.

I say - take what you like and make it yours. After sobbing profusely in a corner and telling yourself you'll give up art forever (for at least 15 minutes), of course. Watch livestreams of that artist's process. Ask them questions. Because I absolutely refuse to allow them to keep their secret of good art to themselves.

[Spinester]

When I see someone I like, I study their art, HARD (after crying to myself). Scrutinize the shit out of it. Every single brushstroke. This has led me to be inconsistent in my art because I'm always trying to emulate artists I'm jealous of, in a horrid amalgamation of different styles.

Hey, what a coincidence! That's my process, too!

[zerobloodyrose]

Oh yes, it feels like a lot of artist feel that way.
I usually think, "what can I improve" "how can I at least be on the same level as this artist". I look at the things that works in their drawings and try to do it myself or practice things that I feel needs improving. Also don't be too harsh on yourself, be self-critical can be a good and a bad thing. Still admit to yourself that you've done something good can help you overcome those feelings a bit.

[allenthomas]

I compare myself to other artists as well. The key is using that comparison as motivation to get better and not dwelling on not being "as good as". I know, it is easier said than done, but it is very important to do. (especially here, there are so many good artists on Tapastic) The key is that I take it in stride and continue to work harder. What I've seen and in some cases experienced is that you waste way too much time and sort of screw your mind up comparing yourself to others. The worst thing that can happen is your eye for others starts negatively affecting your own art, i.e. losing your own style in some form or fashion. So make your comparisons but keep on doing what your doing. Make an honest attempt to improve upon your own shortcomings. Remember just as you compare yourself to others, they do it to you too. Just don't take it in too much or let it consume you.

[MylCreates]

If you figure out how to overcome it, please let me know. I am my own worst critic.

Haha XD this is so true!

[Cielle]

I think it's pretty normal to compare yourself with others, especially when it comes to creative endeavors. I know I struggle with it. But instead of just getting bummed out about myself/my art, I try to remind myself that comparison is the thief of joy. Instead of thinking "Why am I not as good as they are?!?!", I focus on what it is about this person's art that I like/appreciate/admire. I try to see how I can learn from them and improve my own art.

I don't think any artist would want their art to make someone else (especially other artists!) feel inferior when they look at it. I know I wouldn't want that. I still have a lot to learn, but I hope that one day my art inspires others. So rather than dwelling on my "shortcomings" (for lack of a better word), I try to think constructively about how and what I want to improve upon.

Buuuttt that being said, I do still get discouraged sometimes. It's hard to stay positive haha. When that happens, I look at my old art, for chuckles and to see how far I've come.