Is An Art Talent A Gift From God?

Before I attempt to address that question, let's take a look at why some potential artists are asking this question.

I said "potential" artists because it's usually the people who are just starting out in art who ask this question. I think they're searching for some signs of whether they have been given this gift by an omnipotent being.

In short, they are looking for an easy decision as to whether they should be more serious about art or not. Many people often have this nagging suspicion that maybe, just maybe they could be one of the blessed ones who could draw well naturally.

One of the members even left a comment at my blog, saying that all the members in the family could draw so well. So by deduction, he too must have been blessed with the same talent. But he just didn't have the time to pick up drawing.

Recently, the feeling must have gotten worse, since he has been actively searching for drawing tutorials. He did try out drawing, only to find out that he isn't as good as his siblings. And that begs the question, "Is art talent a gift from God?"

The implication is that if someone goes up to him and say that yes, it's something that you either have it or you don't, then he would have quit learning how to draw.

My answer to that question is also a Yes, but I also want to say that the answer is not that simple. The conclusion for having a yes or no doesn't necessarily mean the potential artist should quit or press on.

It only means that the artist will have a much easier time picking up the drawing skills. But talent without passion means nothing. That's because someone who has the natural ability to draw but has no passion will not be motivated to nurture this God-given talent.

Without the constant act of nurturing this talent, the artist will never hit his full potential. And without realising his full potential, the artist will not be able to make full use of his talent.

So yes, I believe there's such a thing as God-given naturally talent, but it's only useful if steps are taken to nurture the talent. Let the talent blossom and then enjoy the happiness that comes with it.