Corey Ribotsky: A Life Painted in Lessons

Corey Ribotsky has spent decades immersed in the creative process, turning raw emotion, accident, and intuition into captivating visual experiences. A Detroit native now living in New York City, Corey has become known for his semi-abstract works that straddle realism and emotional expression. With exhibitions in institutions like the NYC Gallery of American Art and the University of Detroit Art Museum, and works held in collections across the United States, Corey has established a place not just in the art world—but in the hearts of viewers seeking something deeper.

But Corey’s path has never been purely about accolades or appearances. His process is spiritual, psychological, and profoundly honest. And for those just beginning their journey as artists, his advice isn’t wrapped in romanticism—it’s rooted in discipline, presence, and an unwavering commitment to truth.

Here are some of Corey Ribotsky’s most valuable insights for aspiring artists.

1. Start with Chaos—Then Listen

One of the most unique aspects of Corey’s process is how he begins his work: not with a plan, but with an “accident.” He applies multiple layers to a canvas, then sands them down to create random patterns. These unpredictable textures become the foundation of the piece.

“Accidents aren’t mistakes,” Corey says. “They’re the beginning of a conversation.”

For young artists, he advises resisting the urge to over-plan. Instead of trying to control every element from the start, allow the materials to speak. Let the paint run. Let the charcoal smear. Let the shapes surprise you. Great art often emerges not from precision, but from *discovery*.

2. Art Isn’t Just What You See—It’s What You Feel

Corey’s work is deeply emotional. While he often paints nature-inspired themes and landscapes, the underlying drive is always emotional resonance. “I’m not painting trees or oceans,” he says. “I’m painting memory. I’m painting sensation.”

He urges aspiring artists to shift their focus from technical perfection to emotional honesty. “What you feel in the moment is more important than whether the perspective lines up. People remember how a painting *feels* more than how accurate it is.”

This mindset encourages vulnerability and self-awareness. Your art should reflect your *internal* world, not just external reference points. As Corey puts it, “Your heart is your compass. Follow it.”

3. Don’t Rush the Process—Some Paintings Take Years

In a world that celebrates speed and instant results, Corey’s work stands as a quiet rebellion. Some of his pieces are created in days—but others take months, or even years. He often starts a canvas, sets it aside, and returns to it when the right energy reappears.

“Not every idea is ready to be born when you want it to,” he explains. “You have to respect the painting’s timing.”

His advice for beginners is simple: *don’t rush*. Not every piece will resolve immediately. It’s okay to pause. It’s okay to walk away. Some works need to live in the background for a while before coming into focus.

And when you return to them—often, you’ll see with entirely new eyes.

4. Embrace the Discipline Behind the Dream

While Corey’s process is fluid and intuitive, it’s also grounded in serious commitment. He maintains a regular studio practice, rotating canvases, experimenting with texture and light, and refining details with obsessive care.

“Art isn’t a mood—it’s a discipline,” he says. “You don’t wait for inspiration. You create the space where it can visit you.”

For aspiring artists, he suggests building a consistent creative routine—even if it’s small. Ten minutes of sketching. An hour of painting. A daily walk for visual inspiration. The more you show up for your work, the more it will show up for you.

5. Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

Art is inherently vulnerable. You’re exposing your inner world to the public. That discomfort never fully disappears—but Corey encourages embracing it.

“If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not growing,” he says. “Your best work will often come right after you’ve questioned everything about yourself.”

He believes that discomfort is a sign that you’re breaking through creative limitations. Instead of avoiding it, learn to sit with it. Let it guide you toward deeper truths.

6. Build Real Connections—Not Just Online Followers

Though Corey has embraced digital platforms like Instagram he’s wary of the numbers game.

“Followers aren’t fans. Likes aren’t loyalty. The real connection happens when someone sees your work and feels something.”

His advice is to focus less on virality and more on authenticity. Share the process, not just the polished product. Write captions that reflect your journey. Build a community—not just an audience.

And most importantly: don’t let social metrics define your worth as an artist.

7. Protect Your Voice—Even While Learning

Corey recognizes that emerging artists often feel pressure to imitate what’s popular or what gets praised. But he cautions against losing your unique voice in the process.

“Learn the rules—but don’t let them box you in. Your voice is your fingerprint. It’s the one thing no one else can offer.”

While technique, critique, and formal education (like Corey’s own experience at NYU) are all valuable, they should serve as tools—not limitations. The ultimate goal is to create work that only you could have created.

8. Let Art Be Your Anchor in Uncertain Times

Finally, Corey encourages artists to remember why they create—not for money, not for praise, but for *meaning*. In times of uncertainty, stress, or sadness, the canvas can become a sanctuary.

“Painting has always been my way of making sense of things. Even when I don’t have the words, I have color. I have movement. I have form.”

Aspiring artists should view their practice not just as a career path, but as a personal refuge—a space where they can return to themselves, no matter what the world outside demands.

Final Thought: Trust the Process, Trust Yourself

Corey Ribotsky’s career is a testament to patience, persistence, and personal truth. His advice isn’t about formulas—it’s about feeling. About honoring your instincts, respecting your pace, and never abandoning the journey—even when the destination isn’t clear.

“To be an artist is to live with uncertainty,” he says. “But if you learn to trust the process, you’ll always find your way back to beauty.”

Whether you’re holding your first brush or your hundredth, Corey’s wisdom offers a roadmap not just for creating art—but for becoming an artist.