The comparison trap vs. the creative process

Sometimes while browsing outstanding artists’ work on IG, I feel like I’ll never reach that level of imagination, skill, or technique. I wonder: Where do they get their ideas? How did they apply this technique? Why did they choose that color or composition? It can feel a bit discouraging—like I’m just a tiny drop in a huge ocean of creativity!

Of course, these artists also inspire me and encourage me to create and try new things. But at the same time, the sheer amount of talent can feel overwhelming. I remember listening to Loish in a podcast with Proko, and what she said really stayed with me: comparing yourself to others only drags you down—instead, focus on creating and enjoying the process.

That’s what I’m trying to do. Do you ever feel the same? How do you overcome these feelings?

Here are a couple of master studies I did 2 years ago after Alex Raymond, from Scuttle Watch (1941). I loved exploring his line work and storytelling—so fun and full of life! Materials: brush pen, ballpoint pen, and fineliner on Moleskine paper.

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