Self-Doubt & Imposter Syndrome: My Own Worst Enemy

“Can you really call yourself an artist? Is your funky blend really art, or is it more of a crafty thing?”

I’ve asked myself those exact questions more times than I’d like to admit. For the longest time, if you asked me what I did, I would have told you I was an "aspiring" artist—a self-taught maker pulling skills together from various classes to create things. But if I’m being completely honest with myself, that statement wasn’t true. Nor was it a fair representation of my actual capabilities.

I believe all creatives are artists within their chosen mediums. Art isn’t about whether someone else thinks they can recreate what you made; it’s about the intention, feeling, and vision you put into it.

What Makes an Artist, an Artist?

Is there a real difference between a "craft" and "art," and what does that distinction even mean? To me, the only real boundary is the one we place there ourselves. If you convince yourself you aren’t an artist, you’ll act like one isn't allowed to exist inside you.

For years, my own imposter syndrome convinced me I wasn't "worthy" of having a real shop or stepping into the spotlight. I kept moving the goalposts on myself: “I need one more degree,” “I need more practice,” “I need to refine my style first.” I hid behind my love of learning instead of stepping out as the creator I already was.

If I find something interesting or fun to make, I dive in headfirst reading, watching videos, and obsessively researching every technique. I can look at almost any physical piece, deconstruct it in my mind, and recreate it using my own unique, "untamed" style. That ability to translate curiosity into creation isn't just a hobby it's the core of being an artist.

Taking My Own Advice

It’s taken me forever to feel worthy of calling myself an artist, let alone opening an online storefront. But at some point, you have to stop listening to the voice that whispers, "Who do you think you are?" and start asking, "Why NOT me?"

I spent years encouraging my students and my kids to embrace their unique gifts and step boldly into what makes them happy. Untamed Mixed Media is me finally taking my own advice. My art is layered, a little whimsical, rich with emotion, and undeniably mine.

So, am I an artist? Yes. If you're holding yourself back from your own creative passions because of a label or a fear of not being "ready" this is your reminder that you belong in the room, too.

All the best

Tegan