Art Blog #91: “Great Things Are Not Done by Impulse”
24. November, 2024 - Reading time 6 Min. - Peter von Hauerland
#ArtQuotes #ArtistsQuotes #CreativityQuotes #FamousQuotes #MotivationalQuotes
This wisdom speaks directly to the struggles and triumphs of every artist. In a world where instant gratification often takes center stage, it’s easy to feel disheartened when the fruits of your labor take time to materialize.
GREAT THINGS ARE NOT DONE BY IMPULSE
"Great Things Are Not Done by Impulse”
Creative pursuits, whether they take the form of painting, sculpting, writing, or inventing, often demand more from us than just talent or passion. They require patience, persistence, and a willingness to embrace the journey. A powerful quote encapsulates this sentiment: “Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.”
This wisdom speaks directly to the struggles and triumphs of every artist. In a world where instant gratification often takes center stage, it’s easy to feel disheartened when the fruits of your labor take time to materialize. Art supplies can be costly, creative blocks can feel insurmountable, and balancing life’s responsibilities with a creative practice can be overwhelming. But if there’s one message this quote carries, it’s this: persevere.
The Journey of Creation
Every masterpiece begins with a single, often humble, step. Think of the great artworks of history or the monumental scientific discoveries that have shaped humanity. None of them emerged overnight or through a singular flash of inspiration. Instead, they came to life through the accumulation of small, deliberate efforts.
For artists, each brushstroke, pencil line, or welded joint in a sculpture builds upon the last. Each layer, adjustment, and revision brings the piece closer to completion. There’s beauty in this process—an incremental magic that transforms the mundane into the extraordinary.
Overcoming the Struggles
Artists face unique challenges. The cost of supplies, the difficulty of finding time, and the weight of self-doubt can all chip away at motivation. Yet, it’s important to remember that these struggles are part of the journey. Every artist who has “made it” has faced setbacks, rejection, and moments of uncertainty.
The key is to persist. No artist achieves success by giving up when things get tough. The road may be long, but each step forward—no matter how small—is a victory. Even when progress feels slow, trust in the accumulation of your efforts.
The Power of Finishing
It’s not enough to start; you must also finish. Unfinished works, while brimming with potential, are only the seeds of what they could be. By completing your projects, you give them life and open doors to new opportunities. Completion also builds confidence and momentum for future
Success Is Built Brick by Brick
The essence of this quote reminds us that success is a mosaic—a collection of small achievements, decisions, and steps. Each contributes to the larger picture. It’s okay to move at your own pace. What matters most is that you keep moving.
As artists, creators, and dreamers, your perseverance ensures that your voice and vision will be realized. Stay the course, and remember that the journey itself is a masterpiece in progress.
Finally, let’s reveal the author of this inspiring quote: it was none other than Vincent van Gogh. A man who faced immense challenges throughout his life yet left behind a legacy of brilliance. His words remind us that the greatest achievements are not born of fleeting impulses but through persistence and dedication.
So, take a deep breath, pick up your tools, and continue creating. Your masterpiece awaits.
Peter von Hauerland