Imposter Artist Syndrome is a condition in which artists feel they are not good enough or that their work is not worth anything. It is often accompanied by feelings of self-doubt and a fear of being exposed as a fraud. According to a 2014 study, people suffering from Imposter Artist Syndrome don’t really believe in themselves, which leads to stagnation.

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of Imposter Artist Syndrome. One of the most common is a lack of formal training. Many artists feel like they are not qualified to call themselves an artist because they have not gone to art school or because they do not have a degree in art.

Imposter Artist Syndrome can also be triggered by comparisons to other artists. When we see someone else’s work that we admire, it can be easy to feel like our own work is not good enough in comparison. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity.

Symptoms of Imposter Artist Syndrome

There are a number of symptoms that are commonly associated with Imposter Artist Syndrome. These include:

• Feeling like a fraud or impostor
• Self-doubt and insecurity
• Fear of being exposed as an amateur
• Perfectionism
• Procrastination
• Avoidance of criticism
• Difficulty finishing projects

Treatments for Imposter Artist Syndrome

Fortunately, there are a number of things that you can do to treat Imposter Artist Syndrome. Some of the most effective treatments include

Education and Training

One of the best things you can do to combat Imposter Artist Syndrome is to get formal training in art. This can help to give you the skills and confidence you need to feel like a true artist.

Comparison

One of the main things that can trigger Imposter Artist Syndrome is comparing your work to other artists. It is important to remember that everyone has their own unique style, and that there is no such thing as perfect art. Try to focus on your own work, and celebrate your own successes, rather than comparing yourself to others.

Practice

Another great way to combat Imposter Artist Syndrome is to simply keep practicing your craft. The more you create, the more confident you will become in your abilities. Remember that even the greatest artists had to start somewhere, so don’t be discouraged if your early work isn’t perfect. Just keep creating, and you will eventually get where you want to be.

Feedback

Another important treatment for Imposter Artist Syndrome is to seek out feedback from others. This can help you to get a better understanding of your work, and it can also help to build your confidence. Try to find a trusted friend or mentor who can give you honest feedback on your work.

Therapy

In some cases, Imposter Artist Syndrome can be so severe that it requires professional help. If you are struggling to overcome your self-doubt and insecurity, you may want to consider seeking out therapy or counseling. A therapist can help you to understand and manage your feelings, and they can provide you with the tools you need to heal and move forward.

Conclusion

If you are struggling with Imposter Artist Syndrome, know that you are not alone. There are many other artists out there who feel just like you do. But with the right attitude and treatment, you can overcome your self-doubt and insecurity, and start to enjoy your art again.