For Jared Gonthier, art is not just about creating something beautiful; it’s about the journey, the emotions, and the authenticity behind each piece. His work, which merges the natural world with deep human emotion, is a reflection of years of dedication to his craft and his unique artistic vision. When asked to offer advice to aspiring artists, Gonthier emphasizes two key principles: embrace the process and stay true to your vision.
1. Embrace the Process, Not Just the Outcome
According to Jared, many artists, especially those just starting out, often get caught up in the desire to produce something perfect. However, focusing solely on the final result can lead to frustration and creative blocks. Instead, he advises young artists to embrace the artistic process itself—every stroke, mistake, and revision is part of the journey toward creating something meaningful.
“Art is a living, breathing process,” Jared explains. “You’ll make mistakes, you’ll have moments of doubt, but that’s where the magic happens. If you’re too focused on perfection, you’ll miss out on the joy of discovery. Every brushstroke teaches you something new, so allow yourself to enjoy the ride.”
Gonthier believes that true creativity thrives when artists allow themselves to explore without fear of failure. He urges creators to treat every piece of art as a learning experience, where growth is more important than producing a flawless masterpiece.
2. Stay True to Your Vision
Jared’s work is renowned for its authenticity, and he attributes much of his success to staying true to his own artistic voice. In an age where trends and social media can easily sway creators, he emphasizes the importance of developing and sticking to one’s personal vision.
“Your vision is what sets you apart from everyone else,” he says. “It’s easy to get caught up in what’s popular or what you think will get you likes, but if your work doesn’t reflect who you are, it loses its power. Be patient with your journey and trust that your unique perspective is valuable.”
Gonthier suggests that artists regularly reflect on their motivations and ask themselves why they create in the first place. By staying connected to that core purpose, they can navigate the pressures of the art world and remain grounded in their authenticity.
3. Connect with Emotion
For Jared, art is a way to communicate with the viewer on a deep, emotional level. His pieces, often depicting the grace and power of horses, are imbued with feelings of freedom, strength, and connection to nature. He encourages artists to think about how their work resonates with others and to focus on evoking emotions through their art.
“Art is a language,” Jared shares. “It speaks to people in ways that words can’t. When you create, think about the emotions you want to convey. Let that guide you—whether it’s a sense of peace, power, or vulnerability, make sure it’s felt in every detail.”
4. Keep Learning and Experimenting
While Jared is classically trained and draws inspiration from traditional techniques, he never stops experimenting with new ideas and methods. He advises artists to continually challenge themselves by learning new skills, exploring different mediums, and pushing the boundaries of their comfort zones.
“Art is ever-evolving, just like we are,” he says. “You’re never done learning, and that’s the beauty of it. Try something new, even if it’s outside of your usual style. Experimentation keeps your work fresh and keeps you growing as an artist.”
Jared believes that continuous learning keeps the creative spark alive and helps artists stay excited about their craft.
5. Build a Supportive Community
Gonthier also emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community. Whether it’s through collaborations, exhibitions, or simply exchanging ideas with fellow artists, he believes that engaging with others helps foster creativity and growth.
“Art can be a solitary pursuit, but it doesn’t have to be,” he explains. “Being part of a creative community gives you fresh perspectives and keeps you inspired. Don’t be afraid to share your work and get feedback. We’re all in this journey together, and it’s important to support one another.”
In Conclusion: Trust the Journey
Jared Gonthier’s advice to aspiring artists is clear: trust in the process, stay true to yourself, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Art is a deeply personal journey, and by embracing its highs and lows, you’ll not only grow as an artist but also create work that resonates on a profound level. As he puts it, “Art isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. Trust in your vision, and the rest will follow.”