Traditionally we have been taught that consistency in artwork is good. for example, we are taught that once you have discovered your definitive style, you should just stick with it until your death.

But perhaps this conviction is bad and a prison.

So then what is “consistency“? my thought:

When you are pursuing a certain idea or concept, you continue working on it because it continues to fascinate you. But once it no longer fascinates you, you must abandon it and move on.

The best is fluid

For example, we’re always searching for the best literature, the best poetry, the best design, the best food, the best homes, best tools, etc. but the notion of the best is very fluid and ever-changing.

For example, the best phone and digital camera of today will not be the same 10 or 20 years from now. so perhaps seeking the best is a bit of a random chase. And perhaps not a good use of our time.

For example, as of 2021 the best car is a Tesla model S plaid. But may be in 2031, there will be some thing even faster than the plaid.

Or as of today, the coolest car is probably a Lamborghini. But 50 years from now, certainly there will be something newer which is cooler.

Or with camera companies. Currently the camera brand with the most mystique is certainly Leica, but that is because it is still piggybacking off it’s past. When people long forget about Henri Cartier Bresson, magnum, and the history of photojournalism, Leica will probably no longer fascinate.

Just follow your curiosity

My suggestion is just for your own personal curiosity. Only stay with the idea consistently long enough when the fascinating. But when it no longer does, move on.Only stay with the idea consistently long enough when the fascinating. But when it no longer does, move on.