Watch Out for Elitist Gatekeeping

Elitist gatekeeping is a mindset that sets narrow, exclusive standards around what counts as “real” or “serious”. Often seen in highly skilled creatives, this attitude creates a hierarchy where only specific approaches or lifestyles are viewed as valid paths to artistic success. But in many ways, elitist gatekeeping misses the true essence of creativity. Let’s look at what it is, why it can be harmful, and how to avoid it.

Characteristics of Elitist Gatekeeping

Rigid Standards

Elitist gatekeepers often impose strict, often arbitrary rules for what makes someone a “serious” creator. They might insist that true dedication means working long hours, sacrificing all leisure, or even suffering for the craft. If someone doesn’t match these ideals, they may be dismissed as not being a “real” artist.

The “Suffer for Your Art” Mindset

This mindset often glorifies a single-minded pursuit, where relentless dedication is seen as the only way forward. Unfortunately, it can discourage creators from prioritising self-care or mental health, branding these as excuses rather than essentials for sustainable creativity.

Exclusion of Alternative Creative Paths

Elitist gatekeepers may also look down on people with hobbies or interests outside their art form, viewing these as distractions. This discourages the diverse experiences and interests that can enrich a creator’s perspective, leading to narrow definitions of what art and creativity should look like.

Brand Loyalty and the “Best” Tools

Elitist creatives often show a strong loyalty to certain brands or tools, believing that only the “best” (and often most expensive) materials or equipment can produce quality work. They may dismiss others who use different or more affordable tools, creating an “us vs. them” mentality. This emphasis on brand loyalty can discourage emerging creatives who may not have access to high-end resources.

Authority and Exclusivity

People with this mindset tend to see themselves as gatekeepers, judging who is worthy of respect or inclusion. This attitude can lead to an “insider-only” culture, where newcomers or those who don’t fit the mould are quickly excluded.

The Impact of Gatekeeping on Emerging and Diverse Creatives

Stifling Innovation

Creativity thrives on experimentation and learning from failures. When emerging creatives feel pressured to meet impossible standards, they may shy away from risks and stick to conventional approaches. This limits innovation, as new and unconventional ideas are less likely to emerge.

Creating a Fearful, Conformist Culture

Gatekeeping can create an environment where people feel they must conform to avoid judgement. When unique voices feel pressured to fit someone else’s idea of art, the result is a homogenised creative field, lacking in diverse ideas and perspectives.

Exclusivity Over Community

Elitist attitudes often prioritise exclusivity over community. When gatekeepers dismiss newer or unconventional voices, they block opportunities for the field to grow. Without new perspectives, creativity becomes stagnant, limiting growth and progress.

Mental Health Strain

The pressure to constantly “grind” can lead to burnout. Creativity is a process that requires rest, play, and inspiration from various sources. When gatekeeping pressures people to work endlessly, they miss out on these vital elements, impacting their health and creativity.

Why Gatekeeping Is Counterproductive

Losing Long-Term Sustainability

A workaholic approach to creativity overlooks the importance of pacing and balance, which are essential for a long-lasting creative career. Without time for reflection and personal growth, many creatives experience burnout, cutting their careers short.

Ignoring the Value of Play

Studies show that play, relaxation, and diverse interests can foster creativity. Elitist gatekeepers often dismiss gaming, hobbies, or unrelated interests as distractions. But these activities offer fresh perspectives and ideas that can improve creative work.

Destroying Value

Elitist gatekeeping undermines creativity’s core value by discouraging experimentation and unique approaches. Creativity relies on freedom, flexibility, and diverse perspectives. When people feel pressured to follow rigid standards, they’re less likely to explore unconventional ideas, stifling innovation and originality. This limitation not only hinders individual creators but also reduces the overall value of the creative field, making it predictable and less inspiring.

Rejecting Multidimensional Growth

Creativity is enriched by experiences across various fields. When gatekeepers discourage alternative activities, they restrict creators from developing new skills and insights that could add depth to their primary focus.

Building a Supportive Creative Environment

Embrace Inclusivity and Diversity

Recognising that each creative journey is unique helps foster a culture where ideas flow freely, and people feel encouraged to try new things. Inclusivity leads to richer, more diverse artistic fields.

Value Balance and Well-Being

Promoting a healthy balance between work, rest, and inspiration helps creators produce their best work. When mental health and personal well-being are prioritised, creativity can thrive sustainably.

Encourage Exploration and Play

Exploring new ideas and approaches, even outside one’s main field, can enrich the creative process. Play and experimentation should be seen as valid and valuable parts of creativity, leading to fresh and exciting outcomes.

Foster Mentorship and Collaboration

A supportive environment where experienced creatives mentor newcomers can help break down exclusivity. Collaboration and shared learning create a healthier, more welcoming creative culture.

Moving Beyond Elitist Gatekeeping

Elitist gatekeeping often misses the true spirit of creativity, which is about freedom, exploration, and community. By fostering inclusive, balanced, and diverse approaches, the creative field can open itself up to new perspectives and possibilities. Creativity doesn’t have one path, and by celebrating different journeys, we ensure that the field remains vibrant, innovative, and welcoming for all.

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