“There are countless artists whose shoes I am not worthy to polish—whose prints would not pay the printer.”

—Maxfield Parrish

Learn more about Maxfield Parrish, who lived from 1870 to 1966.

Recognition and Humility

I think this quote by Maxfield Parrish touches many people, not just artists. The statement articulates the fact that no matter how accomplished one might become at some particular thing, few receive the recognition they merit. (I’m sure we’ve all heard people describe the frustration of simply “not being recognized.”)

When it comes to classical fine art, I often make a simple comparison when describing how prestige can relate to ability. The comparison goes something like this: a Juilliard School grad might play the violin in the subway for tips while some pop singer tops the Billboard chart…although she obviously doesn’t have nearly the same level of skill or training. Ability and fame don’t necessarily align.

But whether creating art, or at work, or scholastically, or even in volunteering, many who truly excel go virtually unnoticed. In light of this universal fact, the question arises—how do we respond to this lack of recognition? Some people become bitter and angry. Others medicate with food, drink, or other pleasures. And yet others tend to boast of themselves and their own accomplishments while downplaying those of others. (Also known as “Me Monsters,” and we all know how annoying those types can be! Brian Regan does a hilarious comedy sketch about this on Youtube, starting around the 3:05 mark.)

Choosing to Respond Well

In our response to feeling undervalued, I think we ought to begin by recognizing how we feel and choosing to respond wisely. Nobody in their right mind actually desires to be angry, gluttonous, or self-centered. But giving in to self-pity quickly leads down those paths. A good practice is remembering how many people are in the same boat—we’re not alone in this experience! Reaching out to others could yield a great deal of encouragement and insight on how to overcome our particular challenges and feelings.

Empathy and understanding can also quickly lead to patience and graciousness. When we see someone become bitter about another’s success, or hear them “one upping” others in conversation, do we quickly judge? The ability to see our own faults and empathize should inspire pity and gentleness towards those individuals.

The Ultimate Validation

For me, however, the true solace in the face of feeling unnoticed comes from another source. I don’t require recognition from other people to be validated in my work or life. (Although I welcome accolades and enjoy them immensely.) My creed, my worldview, firmly states that each person ought to work as unto God, for His honor, and not in order to receive applause from others. And when we know that God sees and knows all and will reward those who diligently seek Him, the weight of proving ourselves falls from our shoulders. What a blessed relief!

And About that Humility

Implicit within Parrish’s quote reside two crucial principles. (And I love how he phrased it so uniquely from his artistic perspective!)

First: there’s always someone better. (A wise teacher once told me this and the saying has stuck with me.) Don’t let your own abilities or talent go to your head. Hubris always leads to a downfall, whether in one’s outward life or, worse yet, one’s inner life—one’s soul. The most corrupting vice is pride, and unfortunately we can recognize pride very easily in other people while ignoring it in ourselves.

Second: Keep at it! (Parrish did, and it certainly paid off!) Just because we haven’t made the cover of Fine Art Connoisseur (a great magazine) or had a solo show at Cutter and Cutter Fine Art (a great gallery) doesn’t mean that we’re a failure! Now, if we’re self-employed or work on commission we obviously can (and ought) to work towards greater prominence in our field. But often circumstances totally beyond our control bring about prestige and notability. Sometimes people are just in the right place at the right time. More often than not, just knowing the right people and having the right connections makes all the difference!

In my estimation, the best recipe for true success (though not necessarily income) is still discipline. Work hard, keep learning your craft, and always, always do the very best you know how.

Question: How have you responded when you’ve felt undervalued or under-appreciated? Have you had a breakthrough in this area that you can share with us? Do you agree that much “fame and fortune” comes through events outside of our control? Let us all know in the comment section below!