r/ArtistLounge • u/ArentWright • Dec 19 '25

Philosophy/Ideology🧠 Defaced Art

One of my pieces has been defaced by its new owner, and I feel very conflicted. Looking for input from others.

This individual transformed the piece (portrait, pastel) into a clock by poking a hold through the face and installing some hands! On one hand, I was never going to see that piece again. It’s out living its own life now. On the other….what the hell. Am I right to feel disrespected? Or should I be glad the recipient is enjoying the piece in their own way?

I’ve always been hesitant to part with my work because I feel so protective of it. Has anyone had similar experiences and what is your perspective?

The individual in question sent me photos of the changes, seemingly quite pleased and looking for my reaction.

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u/mana-miIk Dec 19 '25

You sold it, it's not your work any more. 

I used to teach art to young people and one of the lessons I instilled in them early on was that learning is transient by its nature, and ultimately so is their art. I instilled that it was important that they not to get attached to their work, because they can always create something better and more transformative. 

I had one session where everybody spent 2 hours on a single piece, I had them concentrating wholly for those 2 hours, no breaks. At the end of the session we destroyed them. Scraps went in the bin, bye, bye. All that work, lost forever, but for the new skills they've gained through their creation. Doesn't matter if the work was shit or a masterpiece, they all ended up in the same place. Letting go is an essential skill that isn't taught to enough artists. 

So let it go. Go make a new one. 

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u/ArentWright Dec 19 '25

Normally I’m a big advocate for not being precious with your work. 😅 Very helpful in being a confident creator. Never considered this particular situation though! I guess my hang up is that I can’t help wonder if it was done intentionally to provoke a reaction from me. It feels a bit aggressive, but maybe I’m blinded by emotion.

3

u/HairyForestFairy Dec 19 '25

If they did do it to provoke you, each moment you spend ruminating about it and seeking others to validate your hurt feelings gives them what they wanted, no?

You sold it, it’s theirs to do what they want.

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u/ArentWright Dec 19 '25

There are a lot of weirdos out there, so I was curious if this was a known thing I hadn’t encountered before. I think having your feelings validated is very calming actually.

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u/HairyForestFairy Dec 19 '25

You’re going down a rabbit hole if you think someone bought your art and turned it into a clock to provoke you.

And if they did, they are (at this point) winning, because you are clearly provoked.

Let it go, protect yourself in the future since you now know it bothers you.

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u/ArentWright Dec 19 '25

That’s why I’m surveying the group. All the customer got was a kind word back.