Finding Your Voice as an Artist: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Art has always been something that I felt was out of reach for me, I had never gone to art college or studied art in any great detail. As a self taught artist, I have learned through my mistakes, watching others and just doing. For me art is a way to share a piece of me, to connect with others, and to create something that reflects the essence of who I am. When I first started my creative journey, I spent a lot of time worrying about whether I had a “style” yet. Should I have a signature look? Was I missing something?

For a long time, I overthought everything. I started doubting myself and asking questions like, “Am I doing this the right way?” The pressure to figure out my style, especially in today’s Instagram world where everyone seems to have their perfectly curated feed, was overwhelming. I would scroll through other artists' profiles, convinced that I should be following a similar aesthetic. I even tried to copy different themes for my own Instagram, but none of them felt authentic. They lasted about a week before I felt like they weren’t “me.”

Over time, I began to realize something really important: it’s not about having a ‘signature style’ right away. In fact, constantly searching for that elusive style blocked my creative flow. What I eventually discovered was that the process of creation itself was more important than what it “looked” like.

I realized that I needed to stop obsessing over what my style should be and focus on what I wanted to say with my art. That shift in mindset was a turning point. It felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I could just create. The pressure melted away, and I could finally relax into my process.

This brings me to a quote that resonated with me from Pablo Picasso: “It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child.”

Discovering your voice as an artist isn’t about trying to mimic someone else’s style or following trends. It’s about letting go, being vulnerable, and creating from a place of authenticity. For me, this shift helped me embrace the fact that style evolves naturally over time as you continue to grow and express yourself.

The Design Process: From Concept to Creation

One of my favourite designs really represents this new mindset for me. When I sat down to create this piece on procreate, I didn’t have a grand plan. I just let myself get lost in the moment, allowing inspiration to flow freely. What e

merged was a simple line art drawing, which is something I’ve always loved doing. There’s something so pure and honest about line art that really speaks to me.

I love adding hearts to my designs wherever I can, I played around with a few different versions of this design, but after some tweaks, I knew this one was the one. It is very simple but it conveys the sentiment that I want to share with others.

Making Art Accessible: Sharing My Heart

As I thought more about how I wanted to share my art, I realized that I want it to be accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford large prints. I want to offer my work in a way that anyone can enjoy it. That's why I’m planning to create a variety of items from smaller pieces like bookmarks and postcards to some homeware items also featuring my designs. I’m excited to share my journey and show people there are so many opportunities out there.

Moving Away from POD: Quality Over Quantity

Now, when it comes to how I want to bring my art to life, I’ve made the decision to move away from Print on Demand (POD). I know that POD can be a huge benefit for many artists—it takes away the stress of inventory and makes it easier to showcase your work and I understand why many creatives choose this route. For me quality is one of the most important things, I don’t want to create things that look mass-produced. I want my customers to feel the care and intention that went into making it.

POD can sometimes result in items that lack uniqueness, and the quality can feel, well, a little cheap. I want to create bespoke items that feel special, unique, and made with love. It’s important to me that my work stands out for its quality and its personal touch, which is why I’m choosing to work with manufacturers who can help me bring this vision to life. It is definitely more time consuming and there is a learning curve but the reward will be seeing holding the finished products. No smudges, no success!

Looking Ahead: Custom Cushions and More

In my next Blog, I’ll be diving into the process of working with manufacturers, I’ll talk about the upfront costs, sample shipping, and what steps are involved in creating something that’s truly bespoke. On my YouTube channel I share tips for other creators who are interested in doing something similar, like the first steps to take and hurdles they may face, aswell as practical guides and tips down to what kind of design files they will need to send to a manufacturer.

Creating art is a journey, and a really fun one at that. Finding your voice is part of that journey... look at it like assembling some IKEA furniture without the instructions. At first, you have no idea what you're doing, you try a few different things, maybe even put a piece on backwards… but eventually, it all comes together, (or not) and you realize it actually looks pretty great (even if there are a few extra screws left over)." It takes time, patience, and a willingness to embrace imperfection. But once you let go of the pressure to be something you’re not, the possibilities become endless. I’m excited to continue this journey, and I hope to inspire others to do the same—let go of the need for a “perfect” style, and just create from your heart. The world needs what you have to say in whatever way you want to say it. Keep creating and shining your light.

Until next time, Love Lisa