“Don’t think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.”
Andy Warhol
These words stayed with me throughout my research into Andy Warhol. In fact, I’d go so far as to say they were the reason I managed to create anything at all after so many months of nothing. Reading about Warhol’s own insecurities made mine feel not only normal, but almost expected. If someone as iconic as Warhol could feel inadequate, somewhat overshadowed by the likes of Basquiat, then maybe I’m not doing too badly after all.
And he’s right, isn’t he? I can’t control whether someone likes my work, or even whether they give it a second thought.
So why have I been stuck under the weight of imposter syndrome again, this time? I hate to admit it, but the answer is social media. The dreaded algorithm. For all its benefits in helping me connect with other artists, it’s also had a paralysing effect. Not enough likes compared to others. No new followers in months. Fewer comments. When you’re constantly comparing your work – and your worth – to someone else’s grid, it’s hard not to fall into that trap.
“Oh, I’m so jealous!” Andy once exclaimed. “He’s faster than me!”
That was Warhol’s reaction to meeting Basquiat, as remembered by his art dealer, Bruno Bischofberger.
Approaching my 44th birthday at the time, that comment felt all too relatable. Many of the artists I’ve connected with aren’t even in the same decade as me. They work faster, with fresher ideas. Young graduates in Edinburgh are painting murals and designing packaging for local brands. They’re just starting out and already contributing so much.
But here’s the thing I realised during my research: experience has value.
Warhol stayed relevant not just because of his fame, but because of his openness. His willingness to be inspired by Basquiat and Haring, to learn from them and to collaborate, kept his work fresh. He let their confidence fuel him rather than stifle him. So, I decided to do the same. One small mark at a time.
Marks turned into shapes. Shapes turned into a design. And before I knew it, I’d created a whole piece… in full colour.
Of course, I didn’t do it entirely on my own. I finished reading The Andy Warhol Diaries and Warhol on Basquiat: The Iconic Relationship Told in Andy Warhol’s Words and Pictures. Both helped me feel seen, understood and encouraged.
Here are a few other things that helped shift my perspective:
Creative Boom is my go-to for inspiration – packed with tips, insights, and interviews with creatives who generously share their journeys, for example:
“…my self-worth isn’t tied to my productivity…”
Teresa Ferreira on burnout, balance, and designing a creative life with space to grow
Ironically, there are also social media accounts I follow that regularly post creative affirmations, small reminders to get out of your own way. Two in particular I love are:
I also recently picked up You Are an Artist by Yinka Ilori from Counterprint Books. It’s simple, playful, and full of encouragement… just what I needed.
I’ve no doubt imposter syndrome and creative block will pop up again. They always do. But for now, I’ve found a rhythm that feels right. A process that works. So I’m holding onto that and running with it.