Tools are Not Talent.

I gave a talk at a local high school last week, and this was one of the quotes I used. I was talking to a group of Juniors, all of whom loved to draw. I was there to illuminate the world of life after high school, and how to have a creative career. I pointed out the need for writing and drawing skills and professionalism too of course.

"Tools are Not Talent" is a quote that I've had with me for many years. I'm not exactly sure where I got it. I carry it around on a little piece of paper that's been stuck up in various cubicles and offices over the years.

It means, it's not which software you have or how fancy your pens are, it's what you do with them. Sure, if you want to be a great watercolor painter you need to learn the properties of the medium -- but, in terms of exploring your own ideas, the materials don't matter. Your personality and life experience are going to come through whatever medium you choose - writing, drawing, movies, computer software, whatever. The key is to focus on what you have to say, not so much on which fancy technical pen you can't afford.