What if getting your creativity back wasn’t about talent or waiting for the right time. What if it was about getting messy, trying things, and not doing it alone?
Steven Light, aka
, stopped making art for 20 years. One blog post pulled him back in. That little spark kicked off a whole new chapter filled with experimenting, building a creative business, and figuring out how to make art work in real life.He opens up about everything from self-publishing and collaboration to dealing with social anxiety and maximizing tech (yep, even AI) as an artist.
From Creative Hiatus to Artistic Revival
After two decades away from art, SLART picked up a pen again and everything changed. His story is proof that your creativity doesn’t just disappear. It hangs out in the background, waiting for you to come back.
"I just bought some pen and ink from Amazon." That’s it. No big plan. Just a small step that opened the floodgates.
It wasn’t just about drawing again. It was about finding a way to make creativity feel good, sustainable, and connected with the right people and support.
Try this: What’s one small thing you can do today to reconnect with your creativity?
Bonus: Set aside 15 minutes to play and explore an old passion. Don’t worry about the result. Just have fun with it.
The Art of Balancing Creativity and Commerce
Making art is one thing. Making a living from it? Totally different game. SLART gets real about the internal tug-of-war between making what you love and making enough to pay the bills.
"It’s a real internal struggle." Yeah. It is.
So what’s working for him? A mix of income streams, building a community of fans, and treating his art like a real business, and doing it without killing the joy.
Try this: Think beyond galleries. Could you try self-publishing? Commissions? Digital downloads?
Bonus idea: Write down one new way you could make money from your art, even if it feels a little scary.
The Power of Mentorship and Community
Nobody does this alone. SLART talks about how mentorship and creative friendships helped him grow faster and feel less overwhelmed.
"We’re not alone as artists."
Having people in your corner, cheering you on, giving feedback, or just understanding what you’re going through, makes all the difference.
Try this: Reach out to another artist today. A DM, a comment, a quick hello. Just connect.
Bonus idea: Join a group or community where other creatives hang out. You never know who you’ll meet.
Experimentation, Technology & The Role of AI in Art
AI is everywhere and it’s got everyone talking, especially creatives. SLART doesn’t see it as a threat. He sees it as a tool. Something to play with. Something to learn from.
"There’s no rules in art."
That’s the way we need to look at tech. Use what helps, ditch what doesn’t. Stay curious and keep evolving.
"We need to embrace AI."
Whether it’s automation, digital brushes, or finding new ways to share your work. Tech isn’t the enemy. It’s part of the toolkit now.
Try this: Test out one new tool this week. It doesn’t have to be AI. Just something new.
Bonus idea: Look up an artist who’s using tech in a cool or unexpected way. See what ideas it sparks.
Quick Recap
Your creativity never left. It’s just been waiting for a little nudge.
You can balance making art and making money.
Community and mentorship are fuel for your growth.
Tech and AI? Tools, not threats.
Sharing your work opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
Ready to Take Your Art to the Next Level?
SLART’s story is a reminder: you don’t need permission to start. You just need to take one small step.
If you’re ready to take your art (and your creative business) to the next level, let’s talk.
Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com.
Spots are limited, so grab yours while they’re open. Let’s get you moving again.
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