Should artists share all their work?

Building on the idea of sharing everything, not just the polished 'good pieces,' I've found it truly transforms how artists connect with their audience. When I first started on platforms like Ask Lemon8, I was so hesitant. I constantly asked myself, 'Should I post all their work or only the good pieces?' The pressure to present only perfection was immense. But the truth is, meticulously curated feeds can sometimes feel... sterile. What I’ve learned is that people crave authenticity, and a true artistic journey isn't just about the masterpieces; it's also about the raw sketches, the experiments that didn't quite work out, and the moments of struggle. Think about it from a viewer’s perspective. When you see an artist share their process, their mistakes, and their growth, it makes them more human and relatable. It's inspiring to see that even talented creators have off-days or pieces they're still learning from. This vulnerability fosters a deeper connection than any flawless final product ever could. It’s like inviting someone behind the scenes – they get to witness the magic being made, not just the finished illusion. This approach helps redefine what a 'nice piece of work' truly means. Sometimes, the 'nicest' piece isn't the most technically perfect, but the one that tells the most compelling story or shows the most heart. One practical way I've approached this is by giving context to my 'imperfect' work. Instead of just posting a quick photo, I might add a caption explaining what I was trying to achieve, what challenges I faced, or what I learned from the attempt. This transforms a seemingly 'failed' piece into a valuable learning experience for both me and my followers. I might share a series of photos: the initial sketch, a mid-stage where I struggled, and then the final (or semi-final) outcome. This narrative arc is incredibly engaging. Another point is the sheer volume of work. If you only wait for 'perfect' pieces, you might only post once a month, or even less. Regularly sharing your progress, even small updates, keeps your audience engaged and your creative momentum flowing. It also serves as a public journal of your artistic development, which can be incredibly motivating. It pushes you to keep creating, knowing that your journey is being documented and appreciated. So, if you're an artist struggling with this dilemma, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try sharing more of your authentic self and your complete artistic journey. Don't let the fear of not being 'good enough' hold you back. Your 'imperfect' pieces are often the most powerful because they reflect growth, resilience, and the true passion behind your art. Embrace the messy middle; it's where the real magic happens and where genuine connections are forged. It's how we all grow, artists and audience alike.