Art is a path on which we honour our world.
The job of art is to turn time into things.
I do know, for most of us, the very best of times are when you're in your own space sweating, trying to squeeze quality out of imperfect capabilities.
You're right, super-realism is back in style.
Never forget that the nurturing and preservation of your own muse is job one. Lose it and you may be losing a great deal.
When you serve your passions, proficiency gradually takes over and becomes habitual.