It's Good To Know

Do you know about Amy over at Pikaland?

Amy publishes the "Good To Know" zine, which is full of advice and inspiration from artists/illustrators/designers on creativity, business and life. The current issue is #6, and is all about the dreaded JEALOUSY and ENVY that somehow go along with being an artist. The questions Amy posed were:
Do you get jealous / envious when you view other people's work?
-Does it make you a better artist?
-How do you get over it?

Well, I sent in my thoughts on this touchy subject, and Amy added them to her publication. So, thank you, Amy! I really appreciate your including me. Lord only knows; it's something I've dealt with on a daily basis... or at least ever since I decided to make ART my profession.
I'm actually pretty good at being downright jealous when I see someone else's work that is just too good to be true (I look a bit like the girl on the right ;o) Well, that is, I think I USED to look like her. Now, at this stage in my life, I try to learn more about what makes me feel so jealous and insecure, which in turn inspires me to do better and work harder. Here are my thoughts, and what's been published in Good To Know #6:

"I do get a little jealous and envious when I see another artist's wonderful work. Mostly I think that situation inspires me. I find that I have to keep looking and studying what it is about the work that sends me off in this direction. Then I try to bring a little of their magic into my work as best as I can. Sometimes I make a trial "copy" of the work, and then see how this influences my future work. I love that these exercises force me to broaden my horizons, and push my boundaries in new directions."

Check out Amy's wonderful publication, especially if you're one to brood and stew about other people's talent. There are 39 artists sharing their refreshing and timely advice over 48 inspiring pages. And believe me; everything in there is definitely Good To Know!