Alicia Keys Teaches Songwriting and Producing

Anna Wintour Teaches Creativity and Leadership

Annie Leibovitz Teaches Photography

Bill Nye Teaches Science and Problem-Solving

Carlos Santana Teaches the Art and Soul of Guitar

Corey Damen Jenkins Teaches Interior Design

Cornel West Teaches Philosophy

Draw and Paint Realistic Portraits

David Carson Teaches Graphic Design

David Lynch Teaches Creativity and Film

Design Stunning Floral Arrangements

Diane von Furstenberg Teaches Building a Fashion Brand

Elaine Welteroth Teaches Designing Your Career

Elevate Your Singing and Stage Presence

Es Devlin Teaches Turning Ideas Into Art 

Esther Perel Teaches Relational Intelligence

Frank Gehry Teaches Design and Architecture

Futura Teaches Spray-Painting & Abstract Art

GOAT

Herbie Hancock Teaches Jazz

Itzhak Perlman Teaches Violin

Jeff Koons Teaches Art and Creativity

Jimmy Chin Teaches Adventure Photography

John Legend Teaches Songwriting

Karla Welch Teaches Building and Owning Your Personal Style

Kelly Wearstler Teaches Interior Design

Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia Teach Creative Collaboration and Fashion

Marc Jacobs Teaches Fashion Design

Parris Goebel Teaches Creativity in Choreography

President George W. Bush Teaches Authentic Leadership

Reframe Your Thinking

Sara Blakely Teaches Self-Made Entrepreneurship

Tyler Mitchell Teaches Storytelling Through Portrait Photography

Usher Teaches The Art of Performance

Will Wright Teaches Game Design and Theory

Yo-Yo Ma Teaches Music and Connection

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Meet Your Instructor

Becoming a Fashion Stylist

Working With Clients

Residential Projects

Business

Life as an Interior Designer

Iteration and Scoping

Leadership and Collaboration

Case Study: MONSE Resort '22 Collection

Working With a Team and Collaboration

Surviving the Fashion Industry

Using the Upside-Down Pyramid of Design to Make Things

Scale Models

Scale and Architecture

Case Studies: Lessons From Creative Leaders

Conclusion

Signature Arrangement

Craft Designs From Inspiration

Pattern: Movement and Scale

Meet Your Instructor: Futura

The School of Abstraction

Spray Paint Mechanics 

Working With Canvas

Can-Control Techniques

Color and Composition 

Detail and Dimension

The Signature as Art

Art in Public Spaces

Bonus: Becoming Futura

The Power of Color

Mixing and Matching Patterns

Create Fine Art With Spray Paint

Developing Creativity

A Global Music Rolodex

Blending Musical Genres

Gathering Inspiration

A Career in Music

Bonus Chapter: For Parents and Teachers

The Impact of Music on Community

Making a Song Your Own

Expand Your Artistic Versatility

How to Unlock Your Creative Spirit

Introduction

Conclusion: Be Present on Your Journey

You Are Powerful

Approaching the Blank Canvas

Art History: A Dialogue Across Time

Closing

Strategize Your Work-Life Balance

"Happy are the Painters" 

Innovation

Introduction: The Art Life

Make It True to the Ideas

Vision

Mazes and Patterns

Live Creatively Through Art

Looking Back at Your Work

Meet Your Instructor: David Carson

Build Your Brand

From Good to Great

Frank's Inspiration

Finding Connection and Common Purpose

Making Your Head, Heart, and Hands Work Together

Using Unconventional Tools

Turn Everyday Objects Into Art

Showing Your Art

Applying Inspiration

Building Confidence as an Artist

Always Be Learning

Paint With Unique Expressions

An Intuitive Approach to Design

Developing a Logo

Design Philosophy: Part 1

Generating Ideas

Designing Products

Connecting With Your Consumer

Designing for a Fashion House: Louis Vuitton

Spanx Case Studies 

Defining Your Style

Transform the Mundane into the Iconic

Art & Design

Designing a Home That Tells Your Story

Joanna Gaines

Teaches Building and Owning Your Personal Style

Karla Welch

Teaches Photography

Annie Leibovitz

Teaches Graphic Design

David Carson

Teaches Design and Architecture

Frank Gehry

Teaches Adventure Photography

Jimmy Chin

Teaches Interior Design

Kelly Wearstler

Teaches Self-Expression and Authenticity

RuPaul

RuPaul Teaches Self-Expression and Authenticity

Teaches Buying and Selling Real Estate

Robert Reffkin

Robert Reffkin Teaches Buying and Selling Real Estate

A Documentary Film From Artist JR

Tehachapi

A Documentary by Artist JR

Teaches Spray-Painting & Abstract Art

Futura

A Film About Patricia Field

Happy Clothes

Teaches Art and Creativity

Jeff Koons

Teaches Game Design and Theory

Will Wright

Teaches Building a Fashion Brand

Diane von Furstenberg

Teaches Storytelling Through Portrait Photography

Tyler Mitchell

Laura Kim & Fernando Garcia

Teach Creative Collaboration and Fashion

Teaches Modeling Fundamentals

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell Teaches Modeling Fundamentals

The Greatest of All Time

Teaches Fashion Design

Marc Jacobs

Teaches Turning Ideas Into Art 

Es Devlin

Teaches Turning Ideas Into Art

Teaches Style for Everyone

Tan France

Tan France Teaches Style for Everyone

Teaches Creativity and Leadership

Anna Wintour

Teaches Makeup and Beauty

Bobbi Brown

Bobbi Brown Teaches Makeup and Beauty

Corey Damen Jenkins

Maurice Harris

Self-expression is the process of engaging in activities you believe exemplify your innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires. If you look in a thesaurus, synonyms for self-expression include concepts like [creativity](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-creativity) or imagination. In its purest essence, self-expression is [self-awareness](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-self-awareness) in action. 

As a unique individual, your own personal definition of self-expression might differ from just about everyone else’s. For one person, it might look like [journaling](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/joyce-carol-oates-on-the-importance-of-journaling) and singing along to their favorite songs. For another, it might look like making a meal from scratch and doing [stand-up comedy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-stand-up-comedy-in-6-easy-steps) at a local open mic night. This is just one of the beauties of self-expression: It’s always individualized.
The importance of self-expression lies in its ability to effect self-discovery. To know yourself, you need to try new things. As you express yourself through these activities, you will realize you have self-existent and innate talents you might have never discovered had you avoided getting out of your comfort zone. Additionally, if you don’t express yourself, it can take a major toll on your [mental health](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health) and sense of overall wellness.
There are limitless ways to express who you are. Here are just five key forms of self-expression you can consider:

1. __Art__: Whether you paint, sketch, or sculpt, art can be an amazing medium in which to express yourself. It’s one of the earliest means of self-expression known to humankind. Stretching back to the days of cave paintings, human beings have made making pictures of the world around them a formative part of their identities.
2. __Fashion__: The clothes you wear can help express your inner self. People use their fashion sense to announce who they are and what they like. Think of how often you can guess the sort of music a person listens to just by the clothes they’re wearing. Fashion is one of the foremost forms of freedom of expression. Some people go one step further and begin designing their own clothes or embark on a career as a full-fledged [fashion designer](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-fashion-designer).
3. __Music__: Playing an instrument or singing is a great opportunity to express yourself. Songs allow people to wed poetry with melody, announcing who they are, what they believe, and what they’ve experienced. You don’t even have to learn how to play music to express yourself through it. By listening to your favorite bands and artists, you relate to their own self-expression and come to a better understanding of yourself, too.
4. __Theater__: Whether you’re on Broadway in New York or on stage at your local community theater, theatrical performances can help you express yourself by taking on the role of another person. [Acting](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/samuel-l-jacksons-acting-tips) is the process of using your own experience to depict that of another human being—your own self informs the character. Other forms of [public speaking](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-public-speaking) and performance can help you build confidence and express yourself, too.
5. __Writing__: Putting pen to paper or typing words on your screen will help you achieve a great deal of personal growth. Maybe you’ll find solace in writing [blog posts](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-blog-post) about your everyday life. Perhaps you’ll enjoy writing [fiction](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/rules-for-writing-fiction) or [poetry](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-poem). Writing can be one of the best ways to express who you are.
Learning to express yourself will make your life richer and more fulfilling. Keep these tips in mind as you develop self-expression skills of your own:

- __Develop self-confidence__. As you learn to express yourself, you’ll also begin to build up your [self-esteem](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem). The same proves true in reverse, too. Go against the grain and let go of societal expectations. Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. 
- __Say what you mean__. Authentic self-expression requires honesty. No matter which medium you use to express yourself, always strive to be yourself rather than someone else. Sometimes you’ll learn even more about who you are through the process.
- __Spend time alone__. To express yourself, you need to delve into your own personal story. Spend moments in quiet [reflection](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/reflective-thinking). Think about the things that make you come alive. The more self-awareness you obtain, the better you’ll be able to express yourself in a fulfilling way. 
- __Try different creative activities__. There are endless ways to express yourself. Whether it’s trying out for team sports or speaking in public for the first time, try new things. Make jokes about your own personality in a stand-up routine. Try out [problem-solving](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving) and strategy games with your friends. Learn to play an instrument. Write down your unabridged thoughts in a journal. 
- __Work with others__. Sometimes the best way to find your inner self is by partnering with other people engaged in similar pursuits. Spending time with like-minded creative friends can feel like your home away from home. You’ll find [validation](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/validation-in-relationships) among your peers that what you’re doing is worthwhile and important. Along the way, you’ll discover the likes, dislikes, and talents that make you *you*, while helping others find their true selves in the process.
Figuring out what you want to do next and how to get there? Learn how to embrace your passions with a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and find the grit to take control of your life with exclusive access to video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Robin Arzón, Elaine Welteroth, Hillary Rodham Clinton, RuPaul, and more.
Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.

Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.

Self-Expression Examples and Tips: How to Express Yourself

Self-expression is the process of engaging in activities you believe exemplify your innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires. If you look in a thesaurus, synonyms for self-expression include concepts like <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-creativity' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-creativity","linkCopy":"creativity","category":null}'>creativity</a> or imagination. In its purest essence, self-expression is <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-self-awareness' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-self-awareness","linkCopy":"self-awareness","category":null}'>self-awareness</a> in action. As a unique individual, your own personal definition of self-expression might differ from just about everyone else’s. For one person, it might look like <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/joyce-carol-oates-on-the-importance-of-journaling' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/joyce-carol-oates-on-the-importance-of-journaling","linkCopy":"journaling","category":null}'>journaling</a> and singing along to their favorite songs. For another, it might look like making a meal from scratch and doing <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-stand-up-comedy-in-6-easy-steps' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-stand-up-comedy-in-6-easy-steps","linkCopy":"stand-up comedy","category":null}'>stand-up comedy</a> at a local open mic night. This is just one of the beauties of self-expression: It’s always individualized.

What Is Self-Expression?

The importance of self-expression lies in its ability to effect self-discovery. To know yourself, you need to try new things. As you express yourself through these activities, you will realize you have self-existent and innate talents you might have never discovered had you avoided getting out of your comfort zone. Additionally, if you don’t express yourself, it can take a major toll on your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-mental-health","linkCopy":"mental health","category":null}'>mental health</a> and sense of overall wellness.

Why Is Self-Expression Important?

There are limitless ways to express who you are. Here are just five key forms of self-expression you can consider:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Art: Whether you paint, sketch, or sculpt, art can be an amazing medium in which to express yourself. It’s one of the earliest means of self-expression known to humankind. Stretching back to the days of cave paintings, human beings have made making pictures of the world around them a formative part of their identities. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Fashion: The clothes you wear can help express your inner self. People use their fashion sense to announce who they are and what they like. Think of how often you can guess the sort of music a person listens to just by the clothes they’re wearing. Fashion is one of the foremost forms of freedom of expression. Some people go one step further and begin designing their own clothes or embark on a career as a full-fledged <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-fashion-designer' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-fashion-designer","linkCopy":"fashion designer","category":null}'>fashion designer</a>. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Music: Playing an instrument or singing is a great opportunity to express yourself. Songs allow people to wed poetry with melody, announcing who they are, what they believe, and what they’ve experienced. You don’t even have to learn how to play music to express yourself through it. By listening to your favorite bands and artists, you relate to their own self-expression and come to a better understanding of yourself, too. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Theater: Whether you’re on Broadway in New York or on stage at your local community theater, theatrical performances can help you express yourself by taking on the role of another person. <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/samuel-l-jacksons-acting-tips' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/samuel-l-jacksons-acting-tips","linkCopy":"Acting","category":null}'>Acting</a> is the process of using your own experience to depict that of another human being—your own self informs the character. Other forms of <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-public-speaking' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-public-speaking","linkCopy":"public speaking","category":null}'>public speaking</a> and performance can help you build confidence and express yourself, too. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Writing: Putting pen to paper or typing words on your screen will help you achieve a great deal of personal growth. Maybe you’ll find solace in writing <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-blog-post' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-blog-post","linkCopy":"blog posts","category":null}'>blog posts</a> about your everyday life. Perhaps you’ll enjoy writing <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/rules-for-writing-fiction' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/rules-for-writing-fiction","linkCopy":"fiction","category":null}'>fiction</a> or <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-poem' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-poem","linkCopy":"poetry","category":null}'>poetry</a>. Writing can be one of the best ways to express who you are. </li></ol>

5 Self-Expression Examples

Learning to express yourself will make your life richer and more fulfilling. Keep these tips in mind as you develop self-expression skills of your own:<ul class="mc-m-4 list-styled"><li class="">Develop self-confidence. As you learn to express yourself, you’ll also begin to build up your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/self-esteem","linkCopy":"self-esteem","category":null}'>self-esteem</a>. The same proves true in reverse, too. Go against the grain and let go of societal expectations. Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. </li><li class="">Say what you mean. Authentic self-expression requires honesty. No matter which medium you use to express yourself, always strive to be yourself rather than someone else. Sometimes you’ll learn even more about who you are through the process. </li><li class="">Spend time alone. To express yourself, you need to delve into your own personal story. Spend moments in quiet <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/reflective-thinking' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/reflective-thinking","linkCopy":"reflection","category":null}'>reflection</a>. Think about the things that make you come alive. The more self-awareness you obtain, the better you’ll be able to express yourself in a fulfilling way. </li><li class="">Try different creative activities. There are endless ways to express yourself. Whether it’s trying out for team sports or speaking in public for the first time, try new things. Make jokes about your own personality in a stand-up routine. Try out <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving","linkCopy":"problem-solving","category":null}'>problem-solving</a> and strategy games with your friends. Learn to play an instrument. Write down your unabridged thoughts in a journal. </li><li class="">Work with others. Sometimes the best way to find your inner self is by partnering with other people engaged in similar pursuits. Spending time with like-minded creative friends can feel like your home away from home. You’ll find <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/validation-in-relationships' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/validation-in-relationships","linkCopy":"validation","category":null}'>validation</a> among your peers that what you’re doing is worthwhile and important. Along the way, you’ll discover the likes, dislikes, and talents that make you you, while helping others find their true selves in the process. </li></ul>

How to Express Yourself

Figuring out what you want to do next and how to get there? Learn how to embrace your passions with a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a> and find the grit to take control of your life with exclusive access to video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Robin Arzón, Elaine Welteroth, Hillary Rodham Clinton, RuPaul, and more.

You’re Worth It

Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.

Self-expression can prove to be one of the greatest joys of your life. Whether through the arts or athletics, the kitchen or your career, doing what you love allows you to make a positive impact on the world and maximize your own personal sense of well-being. Learn more about the art of self-expression.


Paint, Design, or Create Art