I had in mind getting help for doing the back end when I made a comment. However, artists employing helpers to make their art has been going on for centuries. Michaelangelo had others work on his sculptures. Experts did his feet, for instance.

The contemporary market has numerous examples beyond Hirst and his spot painters of artists using assistants. Lichtenstein, Chihuly, and Warhol are examples. It’s a mindset. Buyers have shown a willingness to purchase works even though they know it was not handpainted by the person who signed the work.

Using assistants won’t keep you from getting into museums or galleries, or stop collectors from buying your work. It’s a personal choice. As with Hockney, everyone is entitled to their opinions. I disagree with his take. And, where does one draw the line? Is Picasso’s massive Chicago sculpture to be denigrated because others forged the steel, did the welding and assembled the work? I believe embracing all one’s potential, including how to use assistants to fulfill large aspirations is a good thing.

If you are not inspired, try working on another piece and come back to the first one later. Just don’t stop working. That’s the message from both Picasso and Chuck Close as evidenced by their quotes in this post.