Gatekeeping is for Losers
I have a lot of artists in my life, all at various stages of their journeys. Some are just starting out in new media, some are building a consistent creative practice for the first time, and some have put in more time and effort than I have—thriving and inspiring me daily. Others are marching alongside me at a similar pace but on their own unique paths.
It is one of the greatest joys of my life to connect with other artists. Being “in the arena” with creatives who are giving it their all forms a bond like no other. A world with more people expressing themselves is a better world, which is why we have to protect and support beginners.
Here are a few ways I’ve been trying to do just that—things that helped me as I grew out of the acute, cringe-heavy beginner stage.
Gatekeeping Is for Losers—Share What You Know
There’s no place for gatekeeping in the creative world. Share your processes, resources, supplies, techniques, and opinions freely. Beginners don’t need you to be a master—they need you to be generous and accessible.
Keep it simple and clear—no need for jargon, it’s not helpful.
Recommend affordable supplies or entry-level tools that worked for you, be specific!
Share books, podcasts, links, and posts!
Offer Encouragement with Specificity
Beginner artists often have taste but lack the skill to execute their vision. That gap can feel frustrating, so your encouragement matters. Be specific about what they’re doing well and where you see growth.
Instead of vague praise like, “That looks nice,” offer detailed feedback:
“The way you made the face more rounded and the eyes bigger makes it clear the person you drew is a child. That’s really effective!”
Share your own experiences. If they feel their painting looks “flat”, you could say:
“I used to fill shapes with solid color too, but it sometimes lacked depth. When I started layering colors and textures, it gave my work more dimension. Check out so-and-so’s work, you will be so inspired!”
Be sincere but kind. Don’t overpraise or be too harsh—it’s a vulnerable stage.
Remind them that they’ll feel more satisfied with their work the more they practice.
Accept their gifts. If they make you something, this is a special act of love. Feel the love!
Introduce Them to Your Friends and Collaborate
Feeling welcomed into the creative community builds confidence. It takes time to comfortably call yourself an artist, but being included in events, projects, or casual collaborations validates a beginner’s voice. Standing by your friend shows them you believe in them!
Invite them to group shows or local art events.
Introduce them to your creative circle—it helps normalize the identity of being an artist.
Collaborate on a small project. It creates shared experiences and helps them feel part of the creative world.
Be Honest About the Realities
One of the most valuable gifts you can offer is transparency. Share the unglamorous side of being an artist—the rejected applications, the failed pieces, the long hours. It’s reassuring for beginners to know that even more skilled artists have messy, imperfect stages.
Share the real stats: “In the beginning, I had to make 100 paintings to get 17 I was proud of. I still make lots of bad work”
Let them know the two least sexy secrets of growth:
Practice is the only way to get better.
Just don’t quit. Growth is inevitable with patience and consistency.
Supporting beginner artists doesn’t require formal mentorship—it’s about being kind, generous, and transparent. By sharing what you’ve learned, offering specific encouragement, and welcoming them into the community, you help create a creative world where everyone can grow!
Speaking of being vulnerable, I thought I would share some of my beginner art as an act of solidarity!! Hope it encourages you to keep going if you are a beginner!! I believe in you!
