Not Real Art

Is the term “artist” simply assigned to those who paint, draw, or cook? Or is there more to being an artist than owning a great easel or a luxe set of oil paints? “Guess what? You don’t have to go to art school to be an artist,” says NOT REAL ART founder Scott “Sourdough” Power in this month’s auditorial episode, which poses the question: “What does it really mean to be an artist?” along with its inevitable follow-up: “How do you know if you are one?” In today’s episode, Scott weighs in on the famously thorny topic, challenging preconceived notions (including his own) about the nature of art, creativity, empathy, and ego. “It strikes me that being an artist is not just a job; it’s a calling,” says Scott, reflecting on the artist’s innate compulsion to create, make, and express themselves. “It’s how we’re wired. It’s who we are,” he continues. Scott touches on the less common traits that characterize a “real artist,” including curiosity, open-mindedness, discernment, and compassion: “Whether we see [