How Important is Talent as an Artist

Dawn on Boston Hill, 22 x 28 inches
Acrylic on Canvas, In Private Collection.
Copyright 2009 Mary Rush Gravelle.
Print available.

"The real issue is not talent as an independent element, but talent in relationship to will, desire, and persistence. Talent without these things vanishes and even modest talent with those characteristics grows." Milton Glaser

What this quote tells me is that talent must be catalyzed by other successful traits as an artist, as in any successful career, life path, or anything else we might happen to pursue.

I also take this to mean the practicing of our talent as an artist. If there is will, desire, and persistence, these all add up to practicing the craft, showing up to our art. Talent can flourish and grow in this environment.

I cringe a little as I write this because of my less than perfect practice of my craft. Is it procrastination that holds me back? Is it the lack of the three things that Mr. Glaser mentions: will, desire, and persistence? I have the desire. Do I have the will? I think that the most integral part of that trio just might be persistence. Persistence will trump procrastination if only we would give it a chance.

If You are an Art Patron 

What do you think? Is Mr. Milton Glaser correct in his thinking? If you think about any of the artists whom works you love, would you say that they embody all of the elements that Mr. Glaser mentions? Or is talent innate?

If You are an Artist

What is your opinion of this quotation and thinking from Mr. Glaser? Do you think that talent is tied to these other elements? Do you possess all these elements? Do they add to your talent?

I want to hear from you!

Leave a comment below.

Mary Rush Gravelle

Until Next Week 

Sir Kitty

• Create art

• Appreciate art

• Buy art

I want to hear from you! What do you think of the final painting? Did you like this technique? Did you like the video? What was your favorite part? Leave your comments below.

About the author: Mary Rush Gravelle is an artist who resides in Sedona, Arizona with her beloved cat, Sir Kitty.