Why Do Artists Create Art

Why do Artists create Art?

I am reading this book called "The Creative Act - A way of Being" Being by Rick Rubin, and with each page that I turn I find complete resonance of thought. For example, a chapter that is titled - "Look Inward". I don't remember how many times I have repeated these exact words to those who came to learn from me.

Rick Rubin's book has inspired me to write this. I will not recommend you read it unless you feel very strongly about art and the creative process. And please, definitely don't pick up this book if you think doing art is about learning tools to earn a "degree" or create a "product". The book goes deep into spirituality, intention, inspiration and aspects of freedom in art, in a way that goes many moons beyond what we have been conditioned to perceive art as.

All forms of art including Music is an act of creation, and it can truly represent our innermost selves, even parts of us that we refuse to acknowledge. Just like the ocean - we like looking at it because it reflects who we are. And not everything that we make needs to be recorded, witnessed or applauded. We as artists are creating stuff that is reflective of who we are, and flaws are a part of the system. Ever since I was a child I felt that my sensitivity was a discrepancy of my system, and I was mostly made to believe that it was something I need to fix because it made me more vulnerable; I spent a major part of my life numbing it to average. But I failed. As I read this book I learnt that in fact, in my failure I had succeeded. It is the same sensitivity that allows me to see more, feel more, and accept myself for who I am. It is also something that has evolved to be my greatest strength - because it tells me clearly and brutally what I don't like to do along with what I truly love.

Full disclosure, there is no denying that the sensitivity that allows me to make the art is the same that makes me fear being judged and fear making mistakes. (It also makes me a social misfit!) One cannot be beyond that. But one cannot also be discouraged by that. For me what has worked to keep sharing my art with others is, not to hold on to the expectations and keep moving. You create and you leave it out in the universe, because that is why you are creating in the first place. As Rick Rubin puts it so beautifully, "If a creator is so afraid of judgement that they are unable to move forward, it might be that the desire to share the work is not as strong as the desire to protect themselves. Perhaps, art is not their role. This path is not for everyone. Adversity is a part of the process."

Adversity - external in the form of criticism, ridicule, dismissal, failure as well as internal - self doubt, self-image, questioning, fear - I have seen everything. But I am grateful for many things that seemed like adversities at certain moments in the past but now I may walk past them with ease. I nurtured an undying urge to create, to learn, to explore, to share my explorations, immerse in the process, to stick with the artistic pursuit, not giving in to commercial or popular validation and most importantly - to broaden my perspective. For me creativity and adversity have often walked hand in hand, and I know it has been the same for

many fellow artists and musicians I know. The yin and yang of an artist's life. 'If you stay with the river, one day you will reach the ocean.'

Performing at Bangalore International Centre (July 2024). with Ankit Parekh on pakhawaj at Bi