Humblebragging

Robert, I think most of us will be stung by this letter on humblebragging. In an art world full of the mediocre, we look for an announce the smallest of successes. Social media, blogging, art social sites and art societies seem to not only breed the ordinary but highly regard it!

Well stated. A lesson I can learn. I’d heard the concept of not talking about work in progress. It makes sense to include works of the past. It’s hard to be humble and talk about all your accomplishments without sounding like a braggard. Realizing what words we speak speak back at us: positive thoughts with positive words are the best way to approach goals you’ve set for yourself.

Dear Robert, I am trying my level best to keep my eyes rolled into the forward position reading your latest posting. You’re coining of the word “humble bragging” to the rest of us its called “social media”. Robert you have claimed and actually, bragged yourself, that you have a dozen odd galleries that carry your work. You have regular showings, epic sales, an income and a name that carries you all over the world. You would also be one of the last classic artists who are known and make you’re living as an artist in Vancouver. This enables you the time and luxury of creating this “painters key” blog that we are all so dedicated to. The rest of us rely on facebook, twitter, pinterest, flipboard, google plus and just about anything else we can get our hands on that will get someone to give our work a sideways glance. We have also had to painfully watching two of the big gun galleries of Vancouver close their doors in this past year. We watch the galleries who have managed to stay open with a revolving door of artists spinning their artists works on the wall only to be sent out the door when their paintings don’t sell. Every artist I know has been with several galleries and all have the battle scars and nightmare stories to tell. We artist, like myself, who represent themselves and shamelessly do all our own marketing and promotion, are required to speak up of our own works. One day I was sitting at a restaurant in San Francisco beside an elegant and elderly woman who was cracking dirty joke after dirty joke. So, for everyone she told, I had one back for her. Of course hers all seemed to start with a Rabi, a Priest and a goat going into a bar. Turns out this woman was Robert Mondavi’s Wife, the famed winery in Napa Vallery. Three months later she called me and hired me do create a wine label. I have since created three labels for the winery. So, never underestimate the power of a dirty joke. Finally, I would shout from the roof tops if Lindsay Lohan bought one of my pieces. That’s nothing to be humble about! John Ferrie

I really liked this post a lot. Especially the guy with the tatto that reads “Shut up and paint.” I have always said I would never get a tatoo, but that one reminder I could do will with seeing every day.

I hear you Robert and I somewhat agree. As artists, we or I have been told to use all the latest resources available to us in order to promote our work. I’ve been told a hundred times to have a facebook fan page, have a twitter account, and to put my work on various other sites and talk about my work and my accomplishments. I’ve seen these well-meaning advise givers, almost shudder and look horrified when I’ve told them that I don’t have a twitter account. I always have an uneasy feeling when I get this advice. I have done some of this self promoting -bragging and I’ve cringed ever single time I’ve done it. It’s not me as a person to do this kind of talking about my work or myself, but it’s been suggested to me so many times, that I thought I had to. I hate doing it, absolutely hate it, but I have sold work by doing this and it has helped to let people know that I’m still painting, still getting shows and selling at different galleries. I say this because when I don’t do some social humblebragging, people approach me and ask me if I’m still painting. I don’t have to do much of this anymore because I have gallery representation, so I limit how much of this I do on my own and I try to stay very mindful of my wording.

Sometimes, alot of times, talking about your accomplishments as an artist can be as awkward and difficult as talking about sex. It can be a damned if you do and damned if you don’t situation.

Sorry Robert, I think you’re off on this one. Some people will think you’re bragging or get offended no matter what. I once commented how much I loved my easel; it held up during a windstorm while I needed to brace my arm to steady it. I thought I was sharing information that could potentially help someone making a purchase.Others commented on how they lightened their supplies. Some wet blanket proceeded to knock down anyone talking about ways that they overcame challenges in plein air. I was inspired by the comments and she viewed it as being competitive and showing one upmanship. Instead of artists being inauthentic by walking on eggshells in order to not offend “the less fortunate,” perhaps these people need to wear sandles rather than expecting the world to be paved in leather. It works both ways. Be tactful, professional and sensitive to a point, otherwise anyone offended needs to take a look at themselves and realize what issue the comment is triggering and how they can improve their situation.

Luckily, I am nearing sixty. With life experience I have come to the understanding that (a) I have limited capacity for understanding, (b) that, although I may have opinions about everything and everyone, I actually know very little, (c) that with every new ‘device’ that kids are carrying these day that offer the wonderful potentials shown on TV advertising I estimate that the bulk of the use of these devices constitutes a distraction from what is important in life and rarely serves up a fraction of the potential, (d) that the dollar return on time invested in social media is practically nil in my experience, and finally (d) that simple relationships one-on-one with a fellow human remain the most efficient manner to build a following to which to sell your product. In addition, quantum physics has shown that when we place our attention on a quantum particle it changes its path, rendering prediction rather maddening. Robert’s observations are consistent with quantum physics, in that when we speak about our plans, a work in progress, or what we have done, we subtly change what has been, what is, and what will be. Speaking is a leak of personal power, and I have not mastered it even though I intellectually recognize it as desirable. I don’t have a tattoo, but my adopted philosophy, massaged from Nike, is “Just Paint”. The addendum to this philosophy would be, to LET PEOPLE KNOW YOU PAINT/SCULPT/CREATE by talking not about works planned/in progress/completed but that you create (but then allow them to determine if, in fact, you are an artist). Keep your power for creating, speak only to state your love for your occupation/avocation, pique someone’s curiosity, and your humility coupled with your powerful creations will work wonders. And keep in mind (b) above.

Well said. I think it is a good practice not say what you are going to do or what you think you need to do in every aspect of life. You know and there is no reason you have to share with others unless it involves them or you have been asked.

Bad Humility: “My work sucks.” “I don’t know why I am successful.” – Bad for your own head and appears manipulative. I think this is what Robert is referring to as humblebragging. Good Humility: “I owe my success to my devoted mentor.” “I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of my parents, partner, etc.” “I still have a lot to learn.”, but don’t forget: “I am proud of what I have achieved” – Good to be grateful and remain open to new ideas, yet to enjoy the fruits of your hard work.

It depends on what side of the wave an artist is on: if he or she is selling and acclaimed, the artist has the luxury of humility … others can brag on them. However, on the struggling side, the artist who voices well spoken confidence is a necessary part self-promotion. How many dispair of not selling themselves enough? Humility at the low end will never garner interest and if you don’t think your work is good neither will anyone else. Keep your self criticism to yourself. A little humor can temper the most cheeky bragging. I recall my b-i-l, who was a rabid handball player. He was telling my husband about a recent match. “Man, that guy was good! I’ve never seen such a backhand. He fired that ball like a bullet, then he forced me into positions I couldn’t return it. You know, he almost beat me?!” Personality is a factor … some will never brag on themselves. Quietly stating a point of truth isn’t bragging and delivery is everything.

Yet another example of the left brain betraying the right brain (talk vs action)! Signed, the V.O.E. (Voice of Experience, so to speak)

Humblebragging and its cousin Underbragging are the domain of the under-the-radar. Full bragging, generally done by someone else with an interest in stirring controversy, selling magazines or selling the art itself, is usually done for those with incompetent work and little evident talent. The sort of work we see in many of our public museums.

Robert, I can’t believe that you went that whole letter on humblebragging without mentioning the Republican National Convention.

When others do it it’s bragging, when I do it it’s marketing.

Can I talk to myself? lol

I have been told that talking about a project is a poor idea — perhaps, for some people. Then there are folks like myself who like to verbalize. The more I discuss, the clearer becomes my vision and excitement. We ought to be leery of any generalizations, don’t you think?

Great advice. Only thing I do is post paintings to deviantART and Flickr. Then when they sell, mark them SOLD. That seems about as far as one should go to say anything. I go by the Hindu idea of *If you tell others your mantra, it loses it’s power*. I actually believe this and keep all ideas/experiments to myself until they materialize. Seems to work.

I agree with your thinking, if I am talking about “what I am going to paint I am not painting” and when I have finished a painting, I move on to the next one. I find talking about it seems unnecessary, the painting (to me) should say it all. If I like it a week from now, I keep it, if not I either paint over it or discard it. Some paintings just roll off the brush, artist and paint lost in the moment.

Humblebragging, or a virtual front row seat to inspiration? In today’s age of social media, a lot of people like to see updates of their favourite artists via FB/Flickr postings with photos of their work in progress, share thoughts. Yes, you most definitely risk losing steam and placing chatter over achievement. But for those who like it, it’s an excellent way for people to notice, take interest and follow your art. Imagine if Michelangelo had posted on FB about ANOTHER commission from the Pope, and shown photos of his work in progress. Humblebragging, or a virtual front row to something spectacular? As always, your insightful musings spark thought Robert, a very healthy thing indeed.

“Shut up and paint” is right up there with “Go to your room” However we still have a twice weekly letter to read!!!!!! Here’s another one—Keep your brushes wet and moving.

I also use few words and subscribe to the thought process of “shut up and do it”. Those who can do and those that are all talk generally are just that, all talk. Same applies to many other areas not just the arts.

Just an FYI to Robert Sesco. Your view of QM is not consistent with what actual physicists say. The view you are speaking about completely unfounded scientifically. I actually asked several physicists about your view. (In a nutshell, there is no true Observer effect. Any interference will do.) I guess we should leave science to the physicists and return to your point A and point B regarding this issue and stick with painting.

You are so right about talking. Talking about an idea for a painting. Talking about a whole series with descriptions: I have done both, so much so that my ideas become visual to me. Now that I see them in my mind and have talked about them so much I no longer need to create a hard copy of them. Silence about my work will now become Golden (paint that is).

Thank you very much for the interesting article! I would like to see this – Ross Penhall! What does it write? I would be helped too by such tattoo)) Respectfully Oksana Simonova

I know an artist who gives his paintings to famous people when they come to town. He always manages to get a photo of himself giving the painting. He then says he has work in the private collection of…… Some folks believe him. The arts community laughs at him.

Thank you for describing whole lot of people, artists and wannabes. Every time I’m demoing, I hear this at least once during the session.

I loved this! You have said what I struggle with about having a Facebook page or blog..I don’t have either one, because I don’t know how to do it without humble bragging.. .it’s hard to self-promote and I get tired of seeing those that do it shamelessly.. thanks for your honesty!

I struggle with how to be “real”, and normal, while talking on Facebook like everybody else does. People share their stories, post pictures about what their kids drew, bike rails they build and clean up, photography, and other accomplishments, but it almost seems wrong to post stuff about works in progress or finished art. People post stuff about their work, and what they’ve done, and brag about what deals they found at the store, or a fence they built, or something they knitted, but it seems taboo to post stuff about selling art. I want to true to who I am on Facebook, but agree that I cannot bring myself to type the words about art, or my process of doing art like others do about making it through the day with a new baby, or struggle with their boss, or whatever.

Note to myself: Shut up and write!

I don’t usually talk about my work that I’m currently doing. I am a mixed media artist and also do social commentary installations. The current installation I’m working on is my most ambitious to date. Interestingly enough, I have been talking with people about the subject matter and generally about how the finished product will look. The response has been unexpected. People who in the past, who haven’t really been interested in my art, are talking and have specifically asked me to let me know when it gets installed. I have no intention of talking about my mixed media work, while I’m working on it, but I’m really giving some consideration on discussing future installation projects with people as well. Although I’m not a painter, I have found your letters informative and thought provoking.

We used to call it brag-complaining: “Oh, it’s such a pain for me to try to find shoes that fit. My feet are just so tiny it’s almost impossible.”

And when you do it on Facebook it’s called Facebragging!

When we talk about something, it seems to drain away the energy of the thing.

You are right Robert. If you talk about it, your brain thinks you have done it already!

Oh Robert…you never cease to make me sit up and take a hard look at myself or to ponder or to laugh out loud. Tonight I laughed out loud. It would be hard to find truer words that yours tonight. Please keep writing. I must share this one on my WALL.

Oh, golly, this does make me sad. I like to post up what I’ve just done, because a lot of my friends are interested in seeing it. I also like to journal my thoughts about what I painted or drew, and try to capture the things I did and tried, success and failures. Is it bragging? Maybe? I don’t know — I guess I do like hearing that people like things; but it’s never as valuable as hearing what people don’t like, or things I can improve, or ideas to try, and so on. Otherwise, it’s just me looking at things, and often I just can’t tell…

In the Jewish discipline of Mussar, Humility, “Anavah” in Hebrew, is the first topic (middah) studied as it is fundamental to a spiritual life. But no wimps! the description goes “No more than my place. No less than my space.” False humility is not acceptable as a disguise for cowardice, or in our field, avoidance of getting to work.

When my grandfather arrived in this country all he had was two dollars and a couple of condoms sewed into his underwear. When my grandmother arrived she didn’t have any underwear.

This was from the Journal News, (Westchester County, NY) on August 29: Horoscope Gemini (my sign!) “You wouldn’t dare brag about your latest exploits, but if you don’t tell people what you’ve been up to, you’ll miss out on future opportunities. You’ll be powerfully modest as you express the truth about what you do.” In my experience, one of the effective ways to get what I do around in my area is it to put business cards on area bulletin boards. I have made surprising connections that way. When I have told people what I do, the response is the their wife,sister, brother, aunt, etc, does art, too.

A writer friend once told me he never talks about what he is going to write or about what he is writing as his drive would be talked away. I agree, as creating is a solitary pursuit, or at the least a one on one with the maker of all. Self critique, contemplation of the work in progress require silence. The personal struggle to create is not something that shows lack of confidence or ability nor is it something to brag about, we all go through it and it is part of the creative process. Artists are continually challenging themselves or they should be. The need for constant approval shows lack of confidence, the need to brag is just another way to get approval. The confident artist needs no approval, in fact input from others is unwanted and unsolicited. The bottom line: The work speaks.

Amazing! I love the bottom line: ‘shut up and paint’ – it will adorn my desk from now on!!!

Robert!!!! I totally lost it at the paper bag!! YES!!!! It’s so true!! And maybe it’s the zeitgeist!! I just rewrote my artist statement for a magazine article…and I’m so tired of the BS in the Goldsmith community, the humblebraggs…you are so right, brilliantly!!! My new statement soon to appear in print: “Ann is a pyrolytic artist who loves to melt things until they look like jewelry. “If it’s a torch I own it, if it melts I’m there,” Ann was infamously quoted as saying. She got her first box of matches when she was 5 and never looked back. She has spent most of her artistic life eluding definition.”

Lindsay Lohan? That “crummy” painting sold to a drunk. Says a lot. :)

“Shut up and paint.” Love that.

Women are expert “humble braggers.” After shopping for weeks, spending twice her budget, she wears her new frock to a party , and when someone compliments her, she shrugs and says, “this old thing?””

I can’t talk now…I’m painting.

I figure , if you can do it , it ain’t bragging. At my age, I get to brag about my art career success. I did it all by brain power. My first exhibition was in a church community room. Sold half of thirty works. I am also the original non starving artist, in Denver and proud of it. I coach artists on how to not starve, for no fee. I get to be confident, not bragging so much. I live the art life quite nicely, because, I work at it. ON PURPOSE!!!!!

MR Genn!! whilst your letters could also be labelled ‘baloney’ i hesitate to delete any of them before reading….. and just loved this most recent on “humblebragging’ ….. one of the reasons i felt drawn to painting was that i figured there were already too many words in the world….. (a picture says a thousand……etc) …. anyway i found this post of yours particularly amusing! …..recently i have begun thinking there are too many paintings in the world!!! plus: have been posting my own new paintings on FB this past year or so…. now, that is possibly bragging and not humble?? oh my…… xxxxx

I LOVED your paragraph on the illustrious “Artists Statement”. A great laugh for my day!! We are all asked to write one of these at one time or another, and most of us try not to be too pretentious. And followed by the man with the tattoo was just perfect. “Shut up and Paint” will join the sign in my studio space that says: “Always color outside the lines”.

One day, when I am asked for an “artist’s Statement, I am going to say, “Just look at the damn paintings.”

Thank you again Robert for keeping us grounded! Honestly it is such a temptation is this world of technology to succumb to all the instant self promos out there. I shall continue on just painting and being quiet!

I really like <em>Mountain Mist</em> by Julie Houck, thanks for sharing

my computer: God’s gift to the introvert

Dear Robert, It seems to depend on how one is brought up. I have been caught bragging when thinking I was relating a nice story or just the truth and ended up with a red face. People are only too happy to put you in your place. [ whatever that is? ]Have been mulling over the different approaches to marketing between American and Canadians. If one follows the advice from my American web site, the one is bragging and pushy. There is a difference in cultural attitudes and never the twain shall meet. One of my …in-laws does use the humble bragging all the time and is also adept at back handed compliments. One is left standing with ones mouth open, and unsure.. So! How does one announce a happy occurence in this self marketing mode without hiring someone else to do the bragging for you?? difficult to do strange math test which claimed to be easy.#rd rewrite just to join conversation. How many give up???

I feel if your are going to tell me about yourself, its best to just say it straight out and not beat around the bush. This way I can look through you while not listening. Plus no one cares about your problems or plans anyway. They are too busy formulating their response in their heads while you talk. We all want others to know how special we think we are, but it is very bad form to say it ourselves. This is where are art of conversation plays a huge role. Many don’t talk and say little or I should say don’t converse well anymore. This is due partly because of the ‘machines’ that talk for us these days. Texting, though a fast ‘shorthand’, doesn’t allow for a give and take and many times is misleading in intent. Communication has evolved over millennia only to come to this. I have always found it better to ask how others are doing. Many don’t tell you anything, just “oh. you know..” The art of telling others something while evading humblebragging is a lost practice. But enough about me, what do you think of me?

While I agree with your thoughts about talking down your work without really meaning what you say, your opening sentence worries me. Talking in detail about what you INTEND to do…perhaps that has the potential to be fraught with danger, since intent and execution are often miles apart. I don’t talk much about work in progress, because it is fluid and often changes. I might simply say, if asked what I am up to, something like “I am working on a new piece – it has a way to go yet.” I might say “I am planning to try so and so”. I don’t see anything wrong with that. I might fail…..but nobody is going to judge me harshly for that. I would have no problem admitting failure. I always say that knowing what you never want to do again, is progress! I do occasionally talk about my successes………….if I do not applaud and celebrate my successes, who will? My good friends are delighted to celebrate with me, and are happy for me. You seem to be saying that by talking about your work, you “dilute” your creativity and your successes (take the shine off done deals??? I think not. ). Words, for me, definitely do NOT “eviscerate the will to do things”. I think that once someone starts talking about something, it is a step on the way to DOING it.

Call it what you will, what you do is social networking too. I don’t subscribe to your weekly letters but it was brought to my attention that you wrote the 10 commandments of art, and now this…I didn’t know you were God.