The Power of Making Something Ugly

The Power of Making Something Ugly: Embracing the Beauty in Imperfection

Last week, I painted something truly hideous. It had wonky proportions, clashing colours, and an overall sense of “what is this?”—it just wasn’t working. And yet, I loved making it. Because sometimes, creating something ugly is exactly what we need.

My studio is full of these pieces. They are unfinished, awkward, and destined to be reworked or painted over. But they still tell a story. They are part of me. And they mattered in the moment.

Why Creating the Ugly Matters

Creating something ugly has its own significance. Here are a few reasons why:

• Ugly is Honest: It’s the splatter-truth of how we feel when words don’t quite land.

• Freedom: There’s no pressure, no perfection, and no Pinterest boards to compare against.

• Rebellion: It challenges the notion that healing must look pretty.

• Growth: Here’s the twist: it’s also where technique grows.

  
  

When I let go of trying to make something “good,” I find myself experimenting more. I layer, scrape, and play. I learn. Some of my favourite pieces started as disasters. Often, something beautiful follows because I gave myself permission to begin.

Almost all my finished paintings went through an ‘ugly stage’. That awkward, messy middle where nothing feels right. But I’ve learned not to be defeated by it. If I keep going—adding, adjusting, and trusting the process—eventually, it clicks. Eventually, it feels like mine.

What It’s Taught Me

Creating ugly art has taught me valuable lessons:

• Embrace the Mess: I’m allowed to be messy.

• Joy in Chaos: Joy can come from chaos.

• Deep Truths: Sometimes, the ugliest pieces hold the deepest truths.

  
  
  
  

The Journey of Creation

Creating art is not just about the final product. It’s about the journey. Every brush stroke, every mistake, and every moment of frustration contributes to the overall experience. This process is where we discover ourselves.

When we allow ourselves to create without judgement, we unlock a world of possibilities. The act of creating becomes a form of self-expression. It’s a way to communicate feelings that words often fail to capture.

A Little Invitation

If you’re feeling stuck, sad, or just a bit meh, then I invite you to make something ugly. Create a scribble, a collage, or a finger painting that smears more emotion than technique. Then, look at it with love. Because it’s yours. And it’s real.

Thanks for reading. I hope you find joy in the mess, and maybe even a little magic in the ugly. ☺️

Emma

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Conclusion: Embracing Imperfection

In a world that often celebrates perfection, it’s essential to remember the beauty of imperfection. The power of making something ugly lies in its ability to free us from constraints. It allows us to explore our creativity without fear.

So, the next time you feel the urge to create, don’t shy away from the ugly. Embrace it. You might just discover something extraordinary hidden within the chaos.

By allowing ourselves to create without the burden of perfection, we open the door to genuine self-expression. So go ahead, make something ugly today. You might just surprise yourself with what you create.