At some point, almost every artist looks at someone else’s work and feels a little deflated. You might see a drawing or painting and think that it is better, more confident or more advanced than anything you are making yourself.
If you have ever felt this way, you are not alone. Comparing your work to others is incredibly common, especially when you are learning or returning to art after a break.
The problem is not that you notice other people’s work. The problem is what you compare it to.
Most of the time, you are comparing your own unfinished work, experiments or struggles with someone else’s finished piece. You are also comparing your behind-the-scenes process with their best visible outcome. That is never a fair comparison.
Every artist is on a different path. Some people have been drawing quietly for years. Others may have more time, different experience or a background you know nothing about. What you are seeing is not the whole story.
It is also worth remembering that comparison rarely motivates us in a healthy way. Instead of encouraging progress, it often leads to self-doubt and hesitation. When that happens, people tend to draw less, not more.
A more helpful question to ask is not “Is my work as good as theirs?” but “Is my work improving compared to my own last piece?” Progress in art is gradual and often subtle. It shows up over time, not overnight.
If you notice yourself slipping into comparison, try gently shifting your focus back to your own work. Ask what you are learning, what you enjoyed, or what you would like to try differently next time. These are far more useful questions.
Making art is not a competition. There is no finishing line and no single way to succeed. Your work only needs to belong to you.
And if you would like something gentle to focus on this week, why not take part in our next Weekend Art Challenge, posted here on the blog every Friday. The themes are designed to encourage creativity without comparison or pressure.
The only artist you need to keep up with is yourself.
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