Art keeps our eyes open to imperfection. Creation is vulnerable. Putting something that comes directly from your soul out into the world - even if it is only for you - is vulnerable. Once something is tangible it can be judged- judged by you or by others. It’s easier and much safer to simply not create and protect our fragile egos. But, stick with me here, you are brave to be creative.
What if you were
finally
able to see your imperfections as your greatest gift?
They are your fingerprint on the world. Art can help us accept the imperfection in our own lives and see the beauty in it. The more comfortable we can get with imperfection the farther ahead we will be able to get in our lives and in our art.
Staring yourself dead in the eye and genuinely saying, “I am flawed and that is beautiful. That makes me who I am and uniquely positions me to have a positive impact on the world and on others.”
Imperfection acknowledges our fragility…and our resilience. Seeing our limitations but striving for something better is the essence of humanity. We strive to be better and if you find yourself not striving you are more than likely on the cusp of boredom or lack of purpose. When we don’t have a purpose it is the gateway into more and more difficult emotions.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that we all need to work at a breakneck speed to achieve.
Rather, I’m saying that having goals and dreams and working toward them steadily is a hallmark of a life well lived, a satisfying life made rich and full through the beauty of imperfection and the acceptance of your purpose.
Imperfection in art (and, yes, life) is what makes it perfect. Imperfection gives art its soul, its breath.
It’s like signing your work with your fingerprint. No one does imperfection quite like you. In this world where AI is being normalized, your imperfections are the most valuable thing you’ve got. They are your badge, your flag that says, “I am human, and I make work with this mind and these hands. Any brilliance you see here is a human mind at work, inspired by real experiences. I have sat down and dug deep into myself to bring this into the world.”
Imperfection is key to beauty and is the soul of humanity. Don’t despise your imperfection, it looks good on you.
Megan Hobby Kauffman
Artist, maker, and professional joy-bringer. From my North Carolina studio, Mayhen Press, I whip up colorful, story-filled designs that make everyday life a little brighter (and a lot more fun).