As artists and makers, we pour our hearts into our work, making something that feels like an extension of ourselves. But, let’s face it, not everyone is going to get it—and that’s okay. Sometimes, when we try to explain the deep meaning, the intricate technique, or the creative process behind our art, it’s like we’re speaking a different language. We end up using phrases like “It’s about the emotional connection between color and texture” or “It’s a commentary on the duality of society,” and the response is usually a confused nod, like they’re trying to figure out if we’ve just invented a new planet.
This moment of trying to explain the unexplainable can be both frustrating and hilarious. But you know what? Even if they don’t get it, it doesn’t matter. What matters is that we get it, and that’s all the validation we need.
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Text overlay: “When you try to explain your art to someone who doesn’t get it…”
Start with you enthusiastically describing your art, like you’re giving a passionate explanation. You could use exaggerated hand gestures and overly complicated words (like "expressionism meets abstract surrealism with a hint of metaphysical questioning of modern society" 😜).
Cut to the listener’s blank, confused stare—complete with an awkward pause.
Show yourself pulling a face of frustration, followed by a funny realization that maybe they just won’t get it.
End with a dramatic “It’s fine…” followed by a content smile as you return to your work.
Play light-hearted, comedic music to emphasize the humor and awkwardness of the situation.
Example Text Overlay: “...But that’s okay. I’m still making it.”
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Slide 1: Text: “When you try to explain your art to someone who doesn’t get it…”
Slide 2: Show an image of you, super animated, explaining your art. You might be talking with hand gestures and a slightly exaggerated, passionate expression, as if it’s the most important thing in the world.
Slide 3: A close-up of the person you’re talking to (or just imagining) with a completely blank, confused face.
Slide 4: Show a shot of you looking at your art and smiling, silently acknowledging that the meaning is clear to you, even if it’s not to anyone else.
Final Slide: Text: “At the end of the day, I get it, and that’s all that matters.”
Caption: “Explaining my art is a mix of deep passion and ‘oh, never mind’ moments. 😂 But as long as I’m creating for me, it’s all worth it. 💫 #ArtLife #CreativeStruggles #YouDontGetItButThatsOkay”
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Start with a video clip of you in the middle of explaining your latest project—saying something incredibly deep and artistic like, “It’s an exploration of existentialism through the juxtaposition of organic and geometric forms…”
Add a text box: “That moment when you realize they have no idea what you’re talking about…”
Cut to a shot of the person you’re talking to with a blank stare (or you can use an animated reaction sticker like the “confused” emoji).
Next, show you shrugging and smiling with text: “But it’s okay. I get it.”
Use a poll: “Have you ever tried to explain your art and gotten blank stares? YES / No one gets me”
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“When you try to explain your abstract art to someone who thinks it’s just a bunch of squiggly lines.”
“When you try to explain your mixed-media piece and they ask if you ‘just glued things together’.”
“When you try to explain your conceptual art, but they’re just confused about the color choice.”
“When you try to explain why your pottery is ‘deconstructed and symbolic,’ but they ask if it’s just a bowl.”