Most art never gets from the lofty and perfect inner vision to the real world. This is because along the way dreamers are forced to become realists. How to make that perfect image in one's head tangible; this is where training, experience and skill come into play. Artists must - MUST - reach a point where they can move from concept to finished work without becoming discouraged and seeing their visions die. Artists are sweet souls and we can only stand to see so many wonderful ideas wither on our easels before becoming quite deeply saddened. This results in artistic people moving away from the arts.
Aim first to speak the language of painting, drawing and color fluently, then you can give birth to those inner visions. Save those treasured concepts for your professionally skilled hands. In the Snows of Kilimanjaro Hemingway's main character, a mediocre writer, is coming to the realization that he was going to pass from this life very soon. He says to himself, "Well, you will never write those stories you saved to write until you could write them well."
Poetry and beauty is something many artists long for in their hearts. It can only come forth from consummately trained hands. (Just as a reminder, this does not mean old hands. The Piéta was done by a 24 year old.)
