You Want A Mentor? Let’s Think About This.

Okay, so a mentor is different from a teacher in that they guide you along your path during a pivotal moment of your career.

If you want classes, then an art mentor is probably not going to give you the same satisfaction as you would have with a course with another art teacher for an extended amount of time.

Classes can be 1 to 3 hours a week, sometimes multiple times a week, and that is much more than you will ever have from a mentor that has a fixed 8-to-12-week mentorship program for you to take.

However, if you feel like you are in need of a mentor to nurture you, challenge you, and give you very specific pointers for a concentrated amount of time, then let’s talk about getting you connected to one.

First, what type of mentorship are you wanting?

Depending on the type of mentoring you are craving, different mentors are more appropriate for you at this time than others.

If you are an artist that wants mentoring that is technically focused, then finding the industry artists you know who are more technical is the way to go.

If you are an artist that wants a more personal approach, then know your artists before you go around asking for a mentorship.

Second, it is always good to do your homework ahead of time. Some mentors want you to answer a series of questions so they have a better idea of what to focus on with you during your short time with them.

Will a mentor solve everything for you?

Maybe. But probably not!

That said, your mentors who have been in the industry for 10, 15, to 20+ years know what they are talking about. They know talent when they see it. They know a unique build and art style when they see it.

Let your mentors lift you to the right perspective about your art and your career. Know that it is always good to have more than one mentorship, so you can understand how art mentors are different as well. What one mentor misses may be what another one gives, etc.

Know that mentors do not keep you accountable like coaches!

If you want someone who can keep you accountable with your IP creation, then you may actually be craving a coach instead, and in this sense, you can go out of your industry to find an excellent coach who is trained to make sure you are reaching your peak performance.

Know the difference! Know yourself.