How to Get Ahead of 99% of Artists (Starting Today)

Summary

In a world oversaturated with art, artists, and AI, how can you stand out? In this video, Ori shares the three key steps to success: 1) Find your 'match quality' by exploring different artistic paths and discovering what resonates with you. 2) Embrace a focused 'training arc' to improve quality over speed and grow as an artist. 3) Create your own 'blue ocean' by finding a unique niche in your art through specific subjects, styles, and skill combinations. By following these steps, you can rise above the competition and make a lasting impact in the art world.

Takeaways

• 😀 Find your match quality in art by sampling different styles and mediums to discover what truly resonates with you.
• 😀 It's not about following a traditional path to success—many successful artists have found unique and unconventional routes.
• 😀 The Dark Horse Project shows that people who don't follow the usual path often become the most exceptional, as they focus on what suits them best.
• 😀 Match quality is key: if something feels effortless and fun, it likely suits you well. This is true for both art and life pursuits.
• 😀 To discover match quality, create small sampling projects where you test out new art styles or mediums before committing.
• 😀 Focus on mastery rather than speed—improving your craft slowly and steadily will make your art stand out in a saturated world.
• 😀 Practice reflection and continuous learning: draw something, identify what can be improved, and learn from resources like books or tutorials.
• 😀 The apprenticeship phase, according to Robert Greene's *Mastery*, is crucial for skill development—it may take 5-10 years, but it’s worth it.
• 😀 Speed and output quantity won’t help you stand out; quality is what makes your work noticeable in today's crowded internet space.
• 😀 Creating a 'blue ocean' involves finding a niche that isn’t overcrowded with competition. Be authentic and combine your interests and skills to stand out.
• 😀 The SSS method (Subject, Style, Skill Stack) is a practical framework for building a unique artistic identity that sets you apart from others.

Q & A

What are the three steps to getting ahead as an artist mentioned in the video?

The three steps are: 1) Find your match quality in art, 2) Enter the training arc and focus on improving your skills, and 3) Create your own blue ocean by being authentic and combining unique skills.

What does 'match quality' mean in the context of the video?

'Match quality' refers to finding activities, subjects, or styles that resonate with you and suit your interests and abilities. It's about discovering what feels right for you in your artistic journey, which you can explore through 'sampling' different projects.

How can an artist figure out their 'match quality' in art?

An artist can figure out their match quality by engaging in 'sampling projects'—trying out different mediums, styles, or formats and reflecting on what suits them best. The key is to experiment and evaluate what resonates with them, rather than just thinking about it.

What is the importance of the 'training arc' in the artist's journey?

The 'training arc' is crucial because it emphasizes the importance of focusing on skill development rather than rushing to create art quickly. By slowing down and pushing your abilities to their limits, you'll learn and improve at a deeper level, which ultimately leads to better art.

What is the concept of the 'apprenticeship phase' as mentioned in the video?

The 'apprenticeship phase' is a period where artists develop their foundational skills through consistent practice and learning. It’s a phase of self-directed learning that can last anywhere from five to ten years, where the artist's abilities evolve, even though they may not be widely recognized during this time.

How does 'match quality' relate to the artistic process?

Match quality is directly related to the creative process because it helps an artist identify what they genuinely enjoy and are most suited to work on. By focusing on projects that align with your interests, you increase motivation and enhance the overall quality of your work.

What does the video suggest about the internet's saturation of content?

The video suggests that the internet is already saturated with content, and merely creating more average art won't help an artist stand out. Instead, the key to gaining attention is producing high-quality work that resonates with people, even if it means taking more time to perfect your craft.

What is the 'blue ocean' strategy and how can it benefit artists?

The 'blue ocean' strategy refers to creating a unique niche or space where there is little competition, unlike a 'red ocean' where many artists fight for the same audience. By finding a distinct subject, style, or skill stack that aligns with your authenticity, you can stand out and avoid blending in with the crowd.

How can an artist create their own 'blue ocean' using the 'SSS method'?

The 'SSS method' involves three steps: 1) Choose a specific subject to focus on, 2) Develop a unique style that suits your creative journey, and 3) Combine different skills you acquire throughout your artistic path, such as 3D modeling or concept art, to set yourself apart.

What role does authenticity play in standing out as an artist?

Authenticity plays a major role in standing out because when you embrace your unique interests, life experiences, and perspectives, you create work that is distinctly yours. This not only helps you avoid competition but also allows you to establish a unique identity in the art world.