Many ignorant people refuse to understand art is a principle like any other. It takes study and discipline to learn.

There are many steps to accomplish that take years to master. And not everyone gets to call themselves artists even after years of study.

Understanding and learning these principles is only the first step. Then you need a voice to use this ability in creating work that shows insight, purpose , sense of beauty, and quality in application.

Why do so many think that anyone who buys a paint set is considered an artist. Being an artist is not a weekend endeavor, or a Sunday hobby. That is called amateurism or dilettantism. Look up what those words mean.

To be a true artist take discipline, dedication , sacrifice. And it takes study.  Years of hard work to master drawing, color theory, perspective, composition. Theories established centuries ago. It take learning about past artists and art history.

Wake up to the importance art played in our history and world history and in our future. Give it the respect it deserves and stop thinking this is easy to learn.

Add to which the expense of an art education. The cost of supplies. The cost to exhibit, entry fees, commission fees and packaging, shipping, travel, paints and brushes and canvases . None of this is free.

Pouring,spilling or tossing paint onto a canvas IS NOT ART. Art takes intelligent, organization, focus, diligence. It takes time away from family and friends. Endless hours sitting in front of an easel attempting to take a one dimensional surface and make it look three dimensional and realistic.

If one paints people then add more years learning anatomy and how to draw and paint the figure in all attitudes, configurations and sizes. And with portraits. Learning facial anatomy and trying to add emotional context or personality to the person. And make them look real and lifelike.

I am tired of the world thinking this is a foolish pastime project to avoid “ real” work. We need to wake up and begin to give dedicated hard working artists, who have a valid profession, the credit they are due.

Art is embedded into our lives in ways most don’t even realize. All your favorite. Sci-if and adventure films , animated movies must be drawing and painted and illustrated by ARITSTS.  Men and women who have devoted their lives to learning art principles. And create on paper the images that eventually make it to the screen. Book covers are made by qualified ARTISTS with years of study. Children’s books are illustrated by professional ARTISTS.

Artists have changes our world. Art has informed our society and culture. Art and artists have had a tremendous impact on how we think. What we believe. How we dress. What we see around us every day with even noticing it.

We would not know any history of humanity if artist did not record it. From cave drawing to the Sistine Chapel to current movies and books.  We must give more respect to someone who devotes their life to Art. Who takes the time and effort to show the world what is possible and where and how we used to live.

Stop thinking one can learn this quickly by pouring paint onto a substrate and calling  it art. And calling themselves artists.

It demeans the principle of ART and glory of how art has informed us And our lives for centuries. Give artists the respect they deserve.