StudyMe: Notes on Hard Work vs Talent

Artists often ask for feedback, but knowing when and how to give it can be tricky. In this episode, DBlack and Ali Blackbreak down the realities of honest critique, self-expression, and growth in creative practice. When artists genuinely want the truth, and when they're just looking for validation Balancing technical skill with conceptual depth in art How self-honesty impacts creative output and personal growth The difference between inspiring others vs. trying to influence them Understanding value, pricing artwork, and navigating feedback within the art world

We just dropped a fresh episode: "The Artist Guide to Disobedience" and it’s one you definitely don’t want to miss! DBlack gets real about what it means to break free from the boxes that society tries to put us in—and how that rebellion is key to finding your true creative voice.   Discover what it really means to practice creative disobedience as an artist. In this episode, DBlack breaks down why being yourself often means breaking the rules. How systems and education suppress individuality and creative expression Why artists must choose between obedience and true self-expression The internal conflict of seeking validation versus creating authentic work How cultural conditioning shapes our perception of art, success, and acceptance The lasting impact and value of being unapologetically yourself in creative spaces

Here are 5 keys you’ll learn from listening: Drop the Acts: Why “code-switching” between rooms and audiences might hurt your authenticity—and how to break the habit. Unique Voice Matters: Your perspective adds NEWNESS to old conversations in art; it’s not about inventing something entirely new but being the you that only you can be. Honesty Wins: Being real about your story, your background, and your subjects immediately changes how your work is received (and yes, it could be the difference between getting grants or not!). Portfolio Power: How focusing your portfolio on your story rather than just your “strongest images” can make a bigger impact. Loneliness & Growth: Discover how the isolation of honest self-expression isn’t punishment—it’s the space where you become your best creative self. Donald reveals he didn’t discover he was a “Black artist” until he was the only Black person at the biggest portfolio review in the country. It was an old Mexican curator who told him, “Don’t tell me the shit you tell white people”—and that moment changed everything about how Donald describes his work today! So, if you’re tired of trying to “play the game,” want to get closer to your true self, or just love hearing real talk from real artists, hit play on this episode.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or just needed a nudge to trust your own creative journey, you’ll want to press play now. Donald takes us on a real, raw ride through growth, self-trust, and art that truly speaks (sometimes even louder than words).   1. You Can’t Think Your Way Into Action (You Have to DO First!) Donald drops wisdom on why you’ll never figure out your path just by sitting in your head. Real answers—and growth—only come from jumping in, experimenting, and using what you create as your guide. 2. Growth Happens in the Unknown Ever felt more comfortable being “stuck” than risking something new? Donald unpacks why our comfort zones can be sneaky traps, and how true growth means getting uncomfortable and moving toward the unknown—again and again. 3. Learning From Every Attempt (Even the Mess-Ups) Whether it’s botched murals or switching art mediums after decades, Donald explains how using your last effort—good or bad—is fuel for your next leap. It’s all about stretching further each time. 4. Mindset is Everything—And You Can Rewire It Ever catch yourself downplaying what you do, or stuck with “I’m not really doing anything” in your head? Donald shares how to turn down that negative voice and amplify the one that tells you YES, your work matters (and how to make that your default). 5. You Are NOT Your Mind This episode is deep. We talk about recognizing your mind as a tool—not your identity. Step outside your thoughts, become the observer, and learn how to detach from the self-sabotaging chatter holding you back.

In this episode Donald and Ali discuss the meaning behind the title of the podcast Creative Disobedience. At its core Creative Disobedience refers to an artist striving to be themself.

In this episode, D Black lists his gripes with Cleveland’s art world. He’ll break down each gripe, giving us insight and perspective on what he feels is wrong with the world of art education, art institutions and more.

On this episode of StudyMe, D Black will talk to us about his stunning outdoor murals. We will also get his response to what he experiences once the work is out. How does it feel to let go of the work and trust others with it?

Today we’re talking about the call for artists—an opportunity notice that provides artists with the information they need to apply for a specific art commission or project. D Black will discuss his experience with call for artists, exploring everything from the pros and cons of them and more.

Next weekend, Cleveland will be hosting the NBA’s All-Star Weekend so in this episode, we’re getting D Black’s thoughts on talent vs. hard work and what he thinks it takes to be the best. We’ll also find out what he has brewing for All-Star Weekend.

This episode of StudyMe is all about D Black’s current exhibition, “A Day No One Will Remember” on view at the John J McDonough Museum at Youngstown State University until March 5, 2022.