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Artists don’t just create—they are artists. Creativity isn’t something we switch on and off; it’s woven into how we think, process the world, and move through life. But not everyone around us understands that. If you’ve ever felt unseen in your creative journey or struggled to explain your artistic needs to those closest to you, this is for you.
And if you love an artist—whether as a partner, friend, family member, or someone just getting to know them—this will help you support them in ways that actually make a difference.
That said, this isn’t about excusing toxic behavior in the name of artistry, nor is it about demanding that everyone unconditionally love an artist’s work. Not everyone will, and that’s okay. This is about fostering deeper understanding in relationships—because creativity is often misunderstood, and strong relationships require mutual respect and support. My husband Andrew and I have been together for 20 years, and through that time, we’ve learned what it actually takes to support each other, especially in a creative life.
What Does It Mean to Truly Support an Artist?
Supporting an artist goes beyond just liking their work. It’s about understanding the way they see the world, their creative process, and the emotional investment behind every piece they create.
But it’s also about balance—artists, like anyone else, need to be mindful of how they show up in relationships and ensure they are giving just as much as they receive.
1. Love the Artist, Not Just the Art
It’s easy to admire a finished painting, a performance, a novel—but true support means loving the artist, not just their work. The creative process is messy, uncertain, and deeply personal. Encouraging someone’s artistry, even when they feel stuck or unproductive, is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. But this doesn’t mean enabling unhealthy patterns—loving an artist also means holding space for them while maintaining your own needs and boundaries.
Instead of: “I love your work!”
Try: “I love seeing you create.”
2. Celebrate the Small Wins
Artists don’t always have big, obvious milestones. Success isn’t just about getting published, booked, or exhibited—it’s about showing up, finishing a piece, or pushing through creative doubt.
Recognizing and celebrating these small moments makes a huge difference, but it’s also important for artists to acknowledge and appreciate the people in their lives who do this for them.
Instead of: “Let me know when you finish something big.”
Try: “You’ve been working so hard—I see how much this means to you.”
3. Understand the Highs and Lows of Creativity
Some days, an artist is on fire with ideas. Other days, they’re stuck in a fog of doubt. Creativity isn’t linear, and inspiration doesn’t always show up on schedule. The best way to support an artist? Be steady through the highs and lows, but also know that you don’t have to take on their emotional weight—you’re there to support, not to carry their entire creative burden.
Instead of: “You should just push through.”
Try: “I know you’ll find your way back to it.”
4. Give Them Space to Create (And Don’t Take It Personally)
Creativity requires focus, deep thought, and sometimes, long periods of solitude. It’s not about shutting people out—it’s about letting ideas come to life. If the artist in your life seems distant, it’s likely because they’re immersed in their work.
At the same time, artists need to remember that relationships require presence. If you’re an artist, be mindful of the people who support you and ensure they feel valued in return.
Instead of: “You’re always distracted.”
Try: “Let me know when you’re done—I’d love to hear about what you’re working on.”
5. Believe in Them (Especially When They Don’t Believe in Themselves)
Every artist faces doubt. There will be moments when they wonder if they’re good enough, if their work matters, if they should even keep going. The people who stick with it? They usually have someone in their corner reminding them why they started in the first place.
But this is a two-way street—artists also need to acknowledge and appreciate the belief their loved ones have in them.
Instead of: “Maybe you should try something more practical.”
Try: “I believe in you. Your creativity is valuable.”
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Artists don’t just need praise—they need understanding. To love an artist is to embrace the creative journey with them, to stand beside them in both the breakthroughs and the struggles. It’s about seeing who they are, not just what they create.
At the same time, artists must also recognize that relationships require balance and mutual appreciation. Loving an artist doesn’t mean sacrificing your own needs, just as being an artist doesn’t mean expecting endless validation. Strong relationships are built on respect, communication, and shared support.
Ready to Dive Deeper? Listen to the Full Conversation
My husband Andrew and I have been together for 20 years, and in this week’s podcast episode, we’re breaking down everything we’ve learned about how to love and support an artist—without losing yourself in the process.
And if you found this helpful, share it with someone who loves an artist. Because the more we understand each other, the stronger our creative relationships become.
Listen Now →
With you on the journey, friend.
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Stay Connected: Your Next Steps
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Keep showing up for your creativity—trust me, the world needs your art!
With you on the journey, friend.
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