All the research points in one direction: Artists are NOT born, they are MADE. However, they were born with the interest in creativity, which can also be gained in the while growing up. So, if you want to make art, but you think that you are not talented, this shouldn't stop you. You should start learning now!
If you look at famous artists' drawings or portraits up until they were 5-6 years old, they are hard to differentiate from any other kids' drawings. But something happens between the age of 5-15 that ignites the artist child's interest in drawing more, creating new things, painting, making sculptures from play dough, etc. Whereas the non-artist child suddenly stops drawing and painting. Gradually they lose their belief in themselves. What happens then between the ages of 5-15?
All the pictures are taken from artsy.com
Life and parents happen. If a person grows up in an environment in which there is no possibility of buying art supplies, or no adult in the house supports the child's artistic development by giving them the freedom to explore and make art, the child grows up without any interest in art. Besides, let's not forget: practice makes perfect. Those kids who had the exposure, freedom, interest, opportunity and most importantly motivation to practice art have come a long way in ten years by drawing and painting way more frequently than the other kids.
If you have ever read Malcolm Gladwell's book "Outliers", probably you heard about the 10,000 hours rule, as well. According to Gladwell and his research, once a person practices one thing for 10,000 hours they become an expert. Although his claim hasn't been proven yet, it makes sense. Between the ages of 5 and 15, there is a huge gap of 10 years. More than enough time to improve your art, develop a style and learn more techniques!
So, no matter how old you are, in your 50s or 20s, it is not too late. Art is a skill that can be learned just like cooking, playing basketball or learning a language. Some will find it easier than the other due to their exposure during their lives, but sooner or later everyone can build their art skills. This is why I and artists like me are here to help you find the inspiration you are looking for. I would love to help you by teaching you what I already know from my years of experience. Watching my tutorials every Tuesday and Thursday at Ece Gurler Art Channel will definitely help, but if you don't want to wait and start learning art TODAY then contact me for my workshops! I have three workshops available: Charcoal Drawing, Colored Pencil Drawing, and Watercolor Techniques. Each include 3 real time tutorials as well as live and recorded sessions. Please contact me if you are interested: contact@ecegurler.com I will give 20% discount for the first 20 applicants.
You can do this! Start your art journey TODAY. Life is too short to delay the things you want.
Ece Gurler
Artist & Author