Climbing the Ladder: Jazza's 7 Levels of Art & What It Means for Rogue Artists

We’ve all been there – staring at a piece, wondering, “Is this…good?” It's a question that plagues every artist, from the freshly-inked sketchbook to the veteran gallery show. The pursuit of “good” is what drives us, and it's a conversation that’s as old as art itself. But defining 'good' is a tricky business, isn’t it? It’s more than just technical skill – it’s about impact, meaning, and connection.

Artist Jazza just dropped a video exploring this idea with his take on “The 7 Levels of Art,” and it's a fascinating framework for thinking about artistic value. He builds on Daniel Green’s earlier work, which itself drew inspiration from the rap music levels – a cool lineage of ranking systems! The core of Jazza’s approach is a ranking system, prioritizing human-to-human emotional impact above all else, followed by message, originality, skill, renown, rarity, and, surprisingly low on the list, monetary value.

Now, let’s be honest – that placement of monetary value might ruffle some feathers, especially for those of us trying to make a living from our craft. Jazza rightly points out that while financial success isn't the *primary* goal, it's undeniably important for artists and studios to sustain themselves and continue creating. His own shop, jazzastudios.com, is a great example of that – a way to support his work and empower other artists in their journeys.

What really struck us about Jazza’s breakdown is how it encourages a deeper appreciation for art beyond the surface. NFTs, representing the lowest tier in his system, highlight the dangers of valuing art purely for its speculative financial potential. He calls out the manufactured scarcity and the lack of genuine human connection inherent in many NFT projects. It’s a potent reminder that true art transcends the digital ledger.

Moving up the ladder, branding sits at level two, still a step above the NFT world but still far from the heights of truly resonant art. This is a crucial distinction – even a well-crafted logo or advertising campaign is, in a sense, “art,” but it operates on a different plane than a portrait that moves you to tears or a landscape that captures the soul of a place.

The levels above branding—which Jazza doesn’t fully explore in the video—presumably involve increasingly sophisticated and impactful works, reflecting a deepening understanding of technique, composition, and the power of visual storytelling. Think of Andrew Tischler’s meticulous oil paintings, Proko’s breakdown of figure drawing, or the vibrant color explorations of The Mind of Watercolor. Each of these artists demonstrates a mastery of their craft that goes beyond mere skill – they evoke emotions, tell stories, and connect with viewers on a profound level.

This isn’t about comparing ourselves to these masters, though. It’s about using their work as inspiration and a benchmark for our own growth. It's about embracing the journey, the messy process of learning and experimenting, and celebrating the unique voice that emerges from within.

For Rogue Artists, this video is a beautiful echo of our core mission: to foster a community of creators who prioritize the *making* of art above the chasing of trends or the pursuit of fleeting fame. We believe in the power of shared experience, the joy of learning together, and the transformative potential of creating art in the company of fellow believers. Think Benny and Rocky decorating competitions – that shared joy, that kindness, that tangible creation – that’s the heart of what we’re about.

So, where do *you* fit on Jazza's ladder? Don’t worry about the ranking – focus on the process, the connection, the joy of creation. And remember, your art matters, regardless of its perceived value in the marketplace.

Ready to elevate your practice? Find an Art Angel near you to guide your journey. Book a workshop to hone your skills. List your studio and connect with other artists. Claim your creator profile and share your work with the world. And definitely, decorate a Benny or a Rocky – let's spread some joy!