Embracing the Ugly Journey of Art: Learning to Create Without Fear

Art is often seen as a polished final product, something flawless and inspiring. We admire artists who carry sketchbooks everywhere, effortlessly capturing moments and ideas. Their work looks so refined that many of us try to imitate them, only to give up after a few pages because our sketches don’t measure up. I know I have done this whenever I previously decied to travel and try to draw or journal. But what if the real value lies not in the polished pages, but in the messy, imperfect process that leads there?

There's an importance of pushing through the uncomfortable, ugly stages of creating art, especially when traveling or trying something new. It shares insights on how persistence transforms rough sketches into meaningful work and why sketchbooks are for personal growth, not public display.

A travel sketchbook like this looks so perfect, but the reality is they aren't this way when you start out.

The Myth of Instant Artistic Talent

Many artists we admire seem to have a natural gift for drawing or painting on the spot. Magazines and social media often show only the best work, creating an illusion that great art happens quickly and easily. This can discourage beginners or even experienced artists who face blocks and frustration. I know I tried this on many previous trips an gave up.

The truth is that every artist goes through a phase where their work looks “ugly” or unfinished. This phase is essential. It’s where experimentation happens, mistakes are made, and skills develop. Recognizing this helps us stop comparing our early attempts to others’ finished pieces.

Why Sketchbooks Are Personal, Not Public

Sketchbooks and journals are often misunderstood. They are not meant to be galleries or portfolios. Instead, they serve as a private space to explore ideas, practice techniques, and document experiences. This mindset shift can reduce the pressure to create perfect drawings every time.

During my six-week stay in Switzerland, I filled a travel journal with quick sketches of landscapes, street scenes, or everyday objects. Because it was my first time not quiting pthe process, the pages and drawings are really rough and awkward, but others were more successful. The key was: unlike the many trips before, I keep going, knowing that each page contributes to growth.

Pushing Through the Ugly Stages

Persistence is the most important skill in art. When a drawing looks bad, it’s tempting to stop or start over. But pushing through those moments leads to breakthroughs. Here are some practical tips to keep moving forward:

• Set small goals: Aim to fill a page or complete a sketch daily, regardless of quality.

• Accept imperfection: Remind yourself that ugly sketches are part of learning.

• Experiment freely: Try new styles, tools, or subjects without judgment.

• Reflect on progress: Occasionally review old pages to see improvement over time.

• Use art blocks as signals: When stuck, change your approach or take a short break.

  
  

By following these steps, artists build resilience and deepen their skills. The journey becomes as valuable as the final product. Remember: "You have to go through ugly to get to beautiful."

Learning from Mistakes and Growth

Mistakes are not failures; they are lessons. Each awkward line or misplaced shadow teaches something new. Over time, these lessons accumulate, resulting in stronger, more confident work.

For instance, an artist who initially struggles with perspective might sketch the same street corner repeatedly. Early attempts may look distorted, but with practice, the drawings become more accurate and expressive. This process mirrors painting in a studio, where some pieces don’t work, but others shine.

The Joy of Creating Without Fear

When artists stop fearing ugly sketches, creativity flows more freely. Sketchbooks become a playground for ideas rather than a test of skill. This freedom encourages risk-taking and innovation.

Traveling with a sketchbook offers unique opportunities to capture fleeting moments and emotions. Even if the drawings are rough, they hold memories and insights that polished works cannot replicate. This personal connection enriches the artistic experience.

Final Thoughts on Embracing the Process

Art is a journey filled with ups and downs. The pages that look like “shit” today are the foundation for the beautiful work of tomorrow. By embracing imperfection and continuing to create, artists grow stronger and more authentic.