How often have you heard the phrase, “Make something original”? It’s a sentiment often repeated in the art world—a push to create something never seen or imagined before. While chasing originality might seem like the golden standard, what if the real magic of art lies elsewhere? What if sincerity is what truly gives art its power?
This article explores the idea that sincerity in art—the emotional honesty and deep connections an artist conveys—holds more value than relentless pursuit of originality. By the end, you’ll look at your work differently, gaining practical tips to make it more heartfelt and meaningful for both you and your audience.
What is Original art?
Originality is often seen as the holy grail of artistic achievement. It’s the idea of creating something entirely new, untouched by history, trends, or influence. True originality would mean producing art so distinct that it’s unlike anything else in existence.
Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? But here’s the tough question—can anything truly be original?
All artists, whether consciously or not, are influenced by others. Van Gogh studied the works of Millet and Japanese prints. Picasso was inspired by African tribal art. Even the most renowned creators built on the foundation of what came before them. Originality, then, often becomes a reinterpretation or evolution of earlier ideas, filtered through the artist’s perspective.
This doesn’t mean originality is unimportant. But should it come at the expense of depth and emotional connection? And more importantly, is originality enough to make lasting art?
What is Sincerity in Art?
Sincerity in art is about truth—not in the literal sense, but in an emotional one. It’s the honesty that comes through when an artist fully invests themselves in their work. It’s not about creating something “clever” or “innovative” for the sake of admiration—it’s about sharing a genuine part of yourself with your audience.
What is a bit ironic is that by being sincere you actually end up creating something truly original. Nobody in the world is like you or ever will be like you. So, the more genuine and truthful you are, the more original and set apart your work will be. Because very few artists work from a place of great sincerity.
What Sincerity in Art Looks Like
Picture this: you see a painting that is impressive – it looks like a photograph. However, everything feels meticulously engineered to grab attention. Somehow, it feels empty. Now imagine a different painting—less technically refined, but brimming with energy and life in a way that makes you really feel it. Which painting do you think you’d remember?
Sincerity is the bridge that allows your audience to feel something. It prioritizes an exchange of emotion and mutual appreciation over mere technical exercise. And that’s where its true power lies. Of course, technicality isn’t the culprit here. You can have a technically brilliant painting that is sincere. You can also have a painting that shows absolutely no technical skill that is not sincere. What is important therefore, are your intentions and how you approach your work. Are you trying to make a connection or seeking admiration?
Why Sincerity Matters More than Originality
1. Sincerity Gives Art Depth and Meaning
Originality might grab attention, but sincerity keeps it. Art that comes from an earnest place resonates on a deeper level—it speaks a universal truth that audiences can relate to.
Think of a favorite work of art. Is it something that was groundbreaking for its time, or is it something that stirred something inside you? Chances are, it’s the latter. That connection, that shared experience, is what makes art timeless. A sincere piece of work often finds a far broader and longer-lasting audience than something celebrated merely for its novelty.
2. Sincerity Builds Trust with Your Audience
Audiences can sense insincerity. They instinctively know when a piece is created for shock value or to jump on a trend. But when you create from a place of authenticity, your audience feels that too.
This trust is invaluable. It means your work will not only be admired but also cherished. Successful artists—whether painters, musicians, or writers—understand this dynamic and lean into it.
3. Sincerity Allows for Creative Freedom
When you focus on being sincere in your work, you free yourself from the pressure to constantly innovate or outdo yourself. Instead of chasing trends or comparisons, you channel your energy into what truly matters—creating art that reflects who you are.
Ironically, by prioritizing sincerity, you may end up finding originality as a natural byproduct. Your unique perspective, combined with emotional honesty, will inevitably lead to work that stands out.
How to Create Sincere Art
Sincerity doesn’t come automatically; it takes effort, reflection, and practice. Here are some steps to help you create more heartfelt work.
1. Be Honest with Yourself
What drives you as an artist? What stories, emotions, or ideas matter most to you? Take time to explore your “why.” Art becomes insincere when it tries to cater to others’ expectations or trends at the expense of the artist’s true intentions.
For example, if you’re passionate about portraying small, everyday moments, lean into that instead of forcing grandiose scenes because they’re more “marketable.”
2. Master the Fundamentals
Sincerity doesn’t mean ignoring technique. On the contrary, the more proficient you are at the fundamentals—light, color, composition, edges—the easier it is to communicate your vision clearly and effectively. Technique becomes a tool to enhance your sincerity, not mask a lack of it.
For example, by understanding composition, you can guide viewers to feel the weight of a particular area in a painting.
3. Start Small
You don’t have to overhaul your artistic process overnight. Start with one piece—something truly personal—and focus on painting what you see honestly. The best way to develop and practice sincerity is to in fact just paint what you see. Don’t try to paint a masterpiece – simply follow your eyes and paint the values and colors just as they are. Ignore whether it’s fashionable or innovative.
Your honesty will shine through, and that’s what audiences connect to.
4. Engage with Your Audience
Art is, at its core, a conversation. Pay attention to how people respond to your work. Do they share stories it reminded them of? Do they feel the emotions you were trying to convey? This feedback loop allows you to refine both your technical skills and emotional communication.
Final Thoughts on Original Art and Sincerity
Originality is exciting, but sincerity is enduring. When you pour yourself into your art, it creates connections that last far beyond trends or styles. Every work becomes a reflection of something truthful—and audiences feel that.
Are you ready to create work that’s deeply meaningful and authentic? Start by reflecting on why you create and what inspires you most. And as you work, remember this: the best art comes not from a desire to impress but from a desire to connect.
Now it’s your turn—dive into your next project with sincerity as your guide.
6 thoughts on “Originality Doesn’t Matter in Art – Sincerity Does”
Thank you for your beautiful article which helps me understand better creativity in art. You taught me to see art in a different perspective.
Thank you for your kind words, I appreciate it!
I am a self taught artist with no formal training. I was always striving for perfection in the details. You have taught me that my works are better when I let go of the perfection and paint with feeling. Thank you for teaching me to let the brush flow where”I” want it to.
So glad this was helpful and allowed you to feel more free in your work! Thank you for sharing.
Excellent expression of sincerity as it relates to our soulful artistic exposure. Your message motivated me to
re think my motivation. I will print and frame your article…it will hang in my studio with a very large red arrow
positioned above it! You gave me a fifth perspective.
So glad this article spoke to you – thank you so much for sharing. Am honored that it will hang in your studio!