Serious question, does anyone actually finish their digital art before posting?

I used to post every piece I made, even if I felt it was just okay. Last month, I saw a timelapse from an artist I follow, and they spent over a week on a single background layer. I realized I was rushing to post for likes instead of making art I was proud of. Now I sit with a piece for at least three days before I decide it's done. How do you know when a piece is really finished?

3 comments

3 Comments

dylan6191mo ago

Honestly, I just walk away for a day and look at it fresh. If nothing jumps out as needing a fix, I call it done. That cooling off period is key.

adams.vera1mo ago

Totally get that. I used to just keep picking at things forever and it never helped. Now I force myself to step back, even if it's just overnight. That space lets you see what's actually important instead of just changing stuff for the sake of it. It's the only way I can actually finish anything.

maryh961mo ago

Oh man, I read this thing once about how artists never finish, they just stop. Totally feel that. @adams.vera is right about stepping back, it's the only way to see the actual piece.