Criticism and rejection in art can feel a lot like passing a kidney stone—sharp, painful, and definitely not something you want to experience. In this episode, we're diving deep into this rather unique analogy, exploring how those pesky critiques can actually help us grow stronger, just like surviving a kidney stone ordeal. I'll share my personal adventures with these little buggers and how they’ve surprisingly mirrored my creative journey. We’ll also chat about the importance of separating ourselves from our work, because let’s be honest, nobody wants to be called ugly—especially not our artistic babies! So grab a comfy seat, maybe a glass of water (hydration is key, folks!), and let’s tackle the ups and downs of artistic rejection together.

Welcome back to The New Artist’s Compass. Today we’re

getting real about criticism and rejection. Both are as natural in the creative

process as kidney stones are in life—painful, unwelcome, but sometimes

unavoidable. And just like I recently had to pass one of those tiny nightmares,

dealing with rejection can leave you doubled over, questioning your choices,

and wondering why the universe insists on testing your endurance.

Here’s the thing: rejection isn’t a verdict on your worth as

an artist. It’s a kidney stone—sharp, unexpected, and it feels huge in the

moment, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s tiny. Painful, yes.

Life-ending? Not even close.

The Kidney Stone Metaphor

• Criticism can feel sharp and painful, but like a kidney stone, it eventually passes.
• You’re not defined by the pain, but by how you handle it.

Separating Self from Work

• Rejection of your art isn’t rejection of you.
• Learning to detach helps keep creativity flowing.

Constructive vs. Destructive Feedback

• Not all criticism is created equal.
• How to spot the difference and use what actually helps.

Resilience as a Creative Muscle

• Every “no” or negative review is a rep in building creative strength.
• Over time, rejection becomes less personal and more fuel

Finding Humor in the Hurt

• Using levity (like the kidney stone tie-in) to diffuse the sting.
• Humor makes space for growth and healing.

Sharing Your Work Online for the First Time

Dealing With Criticism and Rejection

Finding (or Building) an Artistic Community

Collaboration as a Creative Catalyst

Staying Motivated Long-Term

Art Challenges & Social Media Trends

Mental Health & Creativity

Art Challenges & Social Media Trends

Setting Up a Creative Workspace

Creative Constraints & Prompts

Measuring Growth as an Artist

Why Do You Create?

When to Call Yourself an Artist

Lessons From a Year of Creating

Setting Creative Goals Without Killing the Joy

• Criticism and rejection are like kidney stones: painful, sharp, and inevitable, but they pass!
• Just like dealing with a kidney stone, facing criticism helps us emerge stronger and wiser in our creative journey.
• It's crucial to separate yourself from your work; the critique is about your piece, not you as a person.
• Analyzing feedback can be beneficial; it’s like examining a kidney stone to prevent future ones from forming!
• Embrace criticism with humor, because getting through it only makes your future work even better!
• When faced with rejection, remember: it's not about you, it's about the art you create, so keep creating!

Links referenced in this episode: