We often use, read, or hear the word passion—passion for this, passion for that, and especially passion for art. But what does passion really mean, and where does the word come from? What does it mean to have a passion for something or to be passionate about it? The word passion is derived from the Greek word pathos, which has more than one meaning. It can refer to something that happens to us, whether good or bad, but it is particularly associated with suffering. The Latin word passio also means "suffering," while the verb pati means "to suffer." However, I do not wish to focus on suffering. Instead, I want to explore passion for art in its positive and optimistic sense. Today, we commonly understand passion as a valuable quality. In many ways, it is, because passion acts as an inner force that motivates us. It is the inner feeling or personal need to express ourselves in different ways. Passion inspires devotion, desire, deep interest, intense love, and genuine affection for what we choose to do.
When we experience intense emotion, it often becomes difficult to ignore. It stirs us to pursue a vision we have imagined from afar. These deep feelings create enthusiasm, which leads to action, and action, in turn, leads to results. We can therefore say that passion inspires action, and action produces results. But what about the original meaning of passion as suffering? Why was that meaning attached to the word?
When passion is left unchecked, without clear goals or constructive plans, it can lead to disappointment and suffering. On the other hand, when it is guided by self-discipline, strategy, a clear vision, and determination, passion becomes a powerful force for positive achievement.
What does all of this have to do with artists? Artists, regardless of their discipline, are often deeply passionate about what they create. Yet we have also seen many artists stop creating. Why? Is it because of poor sales—or no sales at all? Were they expecting success too quickly or dreaming bigger than their circumstances allowed?
These questions encourage artists to examine their true motivations. Do they have enough passion for the path they have chosen? Did financial challenges influence their decision to quit? Have they researched how to promote their work? Have they learned how to turn their art into a sustainable business or sought professional guidance? Have they taken the necessary steps to move forward? Or have they simply discovered that an artistic career was not the right path for them?
Many successful entrepreneurs and millionaires have been asked what made them successful. A common response is: "When you do something you are passionate about; the money will follow." While this is not a guarantee, genuine passion often provides the persistence and resilience needed to overcome obstacles and create opportunities. An artistic career is undoubtedly one of the most challenging ways to earn a living. Nevertheless, my fellow artists, I am neither a dreamer nor encouraging unrealistic expectations. I simply believe that keeping your passion alive—and enduring the inevitable period of waiting while continuing to work hard—is one of the most important ingredients for success.
That is what I wish for all of you: not the suffering that passion once implied, but the fulfillment and success that can come from pursuing your art with dedication, patience, and perseverance.
©[Mona Youssef-Fine Artist-Writer)
