Going Deep on my pet peeves as an artist

Name your top three pet peeves.

As an artist, parent, and lover of creative chaos, I’ve learned to let many things slide. But there are still a few recurring irritations that get under my skin. Here are my top three pet peeves,

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1. “I Could Do That” Syndrome

You’re displaying your work, feeling proud of your efforts, and someone strolls by with the casual remark, “I could do that.” Cue my inner dialogue ‘Yes you could, but you didn’t’.

The heart of art isn’t just in the execution. It’s in the thought, the commitment and the passion poured into the work. My Uncommon Animals of the Alphabet didn’t just magically appear; it was born out of a combination of curiosity, playfulness, and hard work.

How I Deal:
Smile, nod, and let them believe what they want. After all, art’s value isn’t determined by those who don’t understand it. And, hey, at least they’re engaging with your work—even if it’s in the most frustrating way possible.

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2. The Myth of the “Real Job”

“Art is great and all, but what’s your real job?” Ah, the dreaded question.

As an artist, I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard this one. The assumption that creative work isn’t “real” or financially viable is not only outdated but also dismissive of the effort and discipline required to succeed in a creative career. Running a gallery, illustrating books, and designing products like socks and mugs is very real work, thank you very much.

How I Deal:
Rather than taking it personally, I use this as an opportunity to educate. I explain how my art helps raise awareness for endangered animals and infuses my creative soul with purpose. By the end, most people realise the depth and value of what I do—and if they don’t, that’s their problem.

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3. The “AI Isn’t Art” Argument

Sure, some AI-generated works feel soulless to me—just like some traditional art. But that’s a matter of personal taste.

The idea that art requires years of hard work, talent, and struggle to be legitimate? I don’t buy it. Art is about ideas, emotions, and the artist’s ability to convey them. If someone uses AI to express something powerful, that’s just as valid as a painting created over months.

AI is a tool—one of many in the modern artist’s toolbox. It shouldn’t be dismissed or feared but explored and embraced. After all, artists have always adapted to new technologies, from photography to digital painting. Why should AI be any different?

How I Deal:
I focus on the message, not the medium. If a piece of AI art resonates with me, it’s art. Simple as that.

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Conclusion: Redefining the Artistic Journey

These pet peeves may irritate me, but they also remind me why I love what I do. Whether it’s dealing with misconceptions about art, battling outdated notions of “real” jobs, or embracing new tools like AI, being an artist is about evolving, creating, and staying true to your vision.

So, what are your biggest pet peeves? Let me know—I’d love to hear how you navigate the quirks of the creative world!