For some reason, society tends to perpetuate the idea that another person's success means that there is less success to go around. So in order to get ahead, we think we must backstab, lie, cheat, keep secrets or do whatever it takes to keep that success for ourselves. The result, of course, is a society that is all about Number One, with individuals stepping all over each other for a slice of the "cake".
Some years ago, I was sitting listening to a psychologist who had been appointed to the leadership of the school I was teaching at. He asserted that sometimes shame could be a good thing. I did a double take, incredulous that he could say that. I categorically disagree. Shame is never ever useful or helpful. It is a means by which to control and manipulate. Always. And yet, many beginning artists (and even experienced ones for that matter) often feel shame regarding their "success" as an artist. Yours truly included.
Sadly, I have encountered similar ideas in the world of art, particularly in the area of teaching: artists who won't reveal their process or methods for fear that someone else might do the same thing (and perhaps do it better). I have seen people fight over who has mastered a method first, and therefore who should be allowed to feature it in their work, or done their best to boost their sense of worth by criticising and cutting down someone else's work.
The truth is that there is only one person who can create the work you do: you! Even if our work is similar to others, in terms of method or use of materials or whatever, it won't be the same. So you can afford to be generous to others in terms of telling them what you know. Expect that your work will be different to others and some people will love it, while others won't. There is no "secret to being a successful artist" (read one who sells a lot of their art), despite many people telling you online the way to become one (for a price, of course). Granted, some people sell more than others, become more famous than others and so forth. And while it would be lovely to earn a living wage selling your art, the reality is that is not the primary reason most artists make art.
I have always found that being part of a cooperative and supportive creative community does wonders for my work. If you are able to be part of such a group, I highly recommend it. If, however, you encounter self-appointed gurus, people who want to tell you what to do and how to do it, avoid them like the plague. Never take on their negative criticism and keep creating. Its easier said than done, I know, but listen to your inner voice, and create the work that you were meant to make.
As part of her mantra that "Art Requires a Safe Hatchery", bestselling author Julia Cameron says:
Creativity flourishes in a place of safety and acceptance.
Creativity grows among friends, withers among enemies.
All creative ideas are children who deserve our protection.
All creative success requires creative failure.
Fulfilling our creativity is a sacred trust.
Violating someone's creativity violates a sacred trust.
Creative feedback must support the creative child, never shame it.
Creative feedback must build on strengths, never focus on weaknesses.
Success occurs in clusters and is born in generosity.
The good of another can never block our own.
from Cameron, J. 1992, The Artist's Way, Tarcher
These words of wisdom are on the wall of my studio just behind the tea and coffee making facilities. I don't know if visitors to my studio read them or not, but they are at the very least a reminder to me to create an atmosphere of creative generosity within that space. I am always careful to encourage and focus on strengths not weaknesses.
Generosity, whatever form it takes, is an act for the greater good. Whether it is the sharing of resources, financial or otherwise, support, encouragement, ideas and creativity, it will always make a positive difference. Just as the sharing of your creative voice makes the world a better place, so does the sharing of creative practice. Imagine a world where we were all generously supporting each other, rather than the dog-eat-dog one we have now!
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