Clara said something in one of her videos that inspired me, and has become my mantra when I feel that fear of the blank page. Loosely, it went something like this: “You will *never* regret trying to draw. You might regret *what* you draw today, but you will *never* regret trying to draw.” I’m trying to keep this in mind until it becomes a habit to think this way.
I think self-taught artists should immerse themselves in art history and study how past artists they admire approached line, tone, value, palettes, and experimentation. When I was in high school, one of my art teachers encouraged master studies but told us to think of ways to change them-everything from using different media than the master work, changing the colors used, or even changing the perspective.
Self-taught artist here, and for me it was making contacts. Getting skills is just a matter of thoughtful work. But getting the right contacts is difficult and takes years. I've studied architecture and was always interested in art history, so spent (and still do) a lot of time in museums. My tip would be to focus on what interest you and not follow trends. Really dig deep in where your interests are, as this will open up your path eventually.
I believe that there has been times when someone who is self-taught stumble onto something that is new. They came across their art because there were not others telling them otherwise. When one is taught too much, it can impede into the possibility of the new.
I'm a self taught beginner to intermediate artist. Just watching your youtubes have really given me a wealth of information on products, that I didn't know existed. Thank you so much, and I love your contagious smile.
I’m not an artist but I LOVE watching these videos. The vive is so uplifting. This teacher is just what a teacher should be. Thanks Jordan and Cat too !!!!
I went to MVCC in Utica, NY One of my illustration teachers said that we are all self taught in school or not. It was the teacher's job to introduce us to techniques and tools and to give us advice on how to use them. It was our job as students to teach ourselves and to experiment with the tools. The projects we were given was the vehicle with which to experiment, discover something new, inspire creativity and to present that experience. I should have paid more attention to that message.
The way I see it when prof lieu said why work on anatomy when you’re not interested in before you want to do start something else. I think it’s valid because I think diving into something that we are interested in gives us the fuel and drive to continue drawing. I remembered trying to be very technical killed my motivation but when I draw what I love, it’s easier to be in the zone. I’m recently getting into anatomy after drawing portraits for too long. My interests are constantly changing so I’m constantly shifting focus to learn different skills.
Love this topic. Art class in high school was my favourite class but after failing the art exam in o level I stopped drawing painting and all things art till very recently and I realised why I failed, the whole class was basically a fun hour long chill session with paint, charcoal and sketchbooks but as far as learning there was next to none done, but it is still a dear memory. However, now I am starting my art education from zero and this channel is one of my favourite resources. Thank you for this discussion.
I had a similar experience. I didn't like art class in school, because we had these do this the way you like classes. Grades felt random and I never knew what I did right or wrong. I liked the process of making art and the first time I had a teacher teaching me something, I started liking art class (but failed miserably). Now I like learning about art, knowing art is a craft not a mysterious talent thing.
i just joined discord and i feel like my whole world just opened up! im so excited to learn and get involved!! thank you for all these resources and awesome community!!:)
I'm a self taught artist and it took me 20 years of personal study and doing other things before I mustered enough courage to pursue art full-time. I still don't consider myself a technically proficient artist but I think spending all that time thinking, looking and making art on the side, being super critical and beating myself down, and just honing my vision of what I was capable of and appreciating what I can make that was me and not like anyone else gave me the confidence to just do it and not get too worried about what other people might think. Getting feedback is great but it should be not at the expense of cutting yourself out of the picture. What's really important for me I think was figuring out what I wanted to convey with my art. And sometimes it is really that simple. Also a knowing a bit of art theory and history really helps because it helps generate questions. And those questions really led me down the path of looking at outsider art as my source of inspiration. Suddenly my bad skills became a kind of touchstone. Lol.
I think you're so right in saying that art should be primarily about what you as an artist want to express, not how to please other people. Doing what you love will bring out your best abilities, and we're so glad you've honed your vision! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I think style is an ambigious term. What most people, most beginners, mean by style is a more or less accidental look that is a consequence of their strengths and weaknesses - it's sort of a snapshot of their arrested development - rather than something deliberate and consistent. Style, in the actual sense, is a consistent and deliberate abstraction. Take something like the Simpsons, their style follows some clear structures - e.g. Yellow, there are only so and so many chins, haircuts, a few different height levels bla bla. You could say that a comic artist goes back to his own stage of symbolic drawing again, this time on his own terms backed by fundamental understanding. There is a set of four BBC documentaries on the modern masters: a few minutes in, an English sculptor says about Picasso that he could work in any style he wanted, because he was so fundamentally sound. So style, in my book, is systematic consist manipulation of fundamentals.
this content is so, so helpful and appreciated. i've been a self-guided artist since after high school. this is super helpful and it means so much that you're making the time and putting this much effort and care. thanks so much
I just found this channel today. I'm enrolled in Storyteller Academy for writing. I think I found my spot for self-teaching art. Thank you so much for this channel! ❤
I'm so glad you found us! Check out our main website, artprof.org/! There’s a ton of content that isn’t on RUclips, and provides a quick overview that is hard to get on RUclips. -Prof Lieu
I was influenced by art teachers and I definitely believe in formal art school. Anything that is a proven trait. A love for what you do.. Composition, Composition , subject matter, perspective, shading light, expression, drawling skills,brush skills...everything is important.. Learn everything but do what you love.
Thank you for everything you do. This is really inspirational. It helps me feel accompanied and draw while I watch your videos. You have built such a nice community. I've also joined discord, I'm still learning how to use it haha I only joined to be on the art prof community.
I started drawing when I was 7 and than I stopped when I was 20. Now I am 32 and I have been drawing/painting again for 1 year. Why? Because I have finally found my philosophy! That's what being an artist is all about. School might teach you to find your philosophy sooner, self thought can be a lengthier process but they are both ok. All the respect for the professor and the community she created! I am very grateful for being here. Artists should know their philosophy and values. That's when the fear and useless experimenting stops and all you will do is create uniqueness.
That's a great way of putting it! Once an artist finds true inspiration, they'll be able to create works they're really proud of. We're glad you found yours again :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Thanks so much for this video, it really inspired me! I've started painting & drawing more seriously in the last few months, and you just gave me some great pointers; plus your discussion on sketching made me get out my pencils and sketch along as I watched the video. I've never done live figure drawing or sketched moving people before, so I really challenged myself not to hit pause and try to capture you while you were speaking, laughing, moving your heads etc. which was a new experience for me! I agree with you that sketching can make it less intimidating bc there's no expectation that it has to be good.
I once drew a still life which I liked, but there was something not right. There was a cutting board in the picture. I just couldn’t get it right. I picked up the board, realized it was hand made and the proportions of the handle were subtly crooked and out of whack…wow! A ta-da moment…
I must say, you guys are the best especially Professor Liue. Always producing good, informative, quality critiques and talks about art and it really educates me a lot. Also thank you for the "Smart history" suggestion!
Took a few art courses at nearby college as I work full time. The basic drawing class was actually the best experience so far primarily because of the good instructor. She promoted her students to experiment with various media such as ink, pastel, charcoal. The rest of art courses, including basic watercolor, 2-dimensional/colors, ceramics, all seemed to be more of self-exploration. I’ve paused on enrolling in art classes for now and viewing RUclips instead. Glad to have found ArtProf !
I am a self taught artist and I have always been very curious and attracted to art ( I began long before the internet) and started being attracted to art and artists I saw in Magazines or news paper and then began copying both drawing and painting images I liked. When I had birthday I always wanted colors and at 12 years I got my first oil artist colors and I was “ in heaven” - but I was also very aware that it is about being very much open to was is important and that it had to do with courage to “do things in different ways” to experiment and to improvise and since I also was into Contemporary dance I learned a lot from different ways of working with movement and dance improvisation - and here I learned that you have to “get rid of the observer and give yourself unconditionally to the living now” if you observe yourself you cannot be totally unconditionally present - if you get to conscious you risk to work to “please others or yourself” and you cannot get “into the zone” - so critiquing and copying arre interesting steps on the way of getting experience and knowledge but you have to go into the Landscape with total awareness and be able to focus in different ways which by the way is the strongest way to stay curious and motivated. And of course drawing and painting a lot - and then you learn a lot by investigating art - both ancient and Contemporary, to go to exhibition, to exhibite, to engage with the art World around you - and dont be afraid , be curious, experiment, learn techniques not to limit yourself to them but to broaden your possibilities, and I look at style as different ways of expressing yourself e.g in dance there are so many styles and each style has different possibilities like languages - and its quite fun to be open
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us!! Visual art and dance are such amazing ways to express yourself creatively. As you said, there are so many different "languages" when it comes to dancing and creating art-- might as well try and learn as many as you can! If you liked this video, you might also enjoy this one where Prof Lieu learns Procreate for the first time: ruclips.net/video/ZCe2dzBnDBo/видео.html Thanks for watching :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I recently found Art Prof it's great, and you're all doing a wonderful job. I was interested by Rachael Dias's question about not being able to draw for weeks after doing a good painting. I do something a little similar. When I do a painting I'm pleased with I then can't do another one because I'm too scared. I think it was just luck, and I'm sure next time I'll mess up, and fail. Trying to overcome this, but it's hard. Also sometimes I find myself in a cul de sac, and feel stuck and can't get out, and I can't work out why. Really interesting video, lots of good ideas. Thanks.
I am an entirely self-taught artist! I have improved by leaps and bounds especially after taking a series of intense and full time art classes and individual instruction by an award winning art instructor.
Structured learning can be so valuable, we're happy you're watching! If you'd like to watch another self-taught artist video, check this out: ruclips.net/video/KIEXU1tP8rI/видео.html you might enjoy it :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Absolutely! Yess!!!! I'm sitting here talking at the screen! I love your channel, it's so refreshing and very very helpful! I've made a few attempts over the years into 'formal' art study doing evening courses but was very put off by measuring with pencils (my mind just went blank every time the teacher had us stick our arm out with the pencil to measure the proportions on the model) and the day I quit was when the teacher painted over the entire portrait I worked on so that in the end it wasn't mine anymore! It really took the fun out of creating art and I only found joy again when I studied other self-taught artists' work and went my own merry way within my range of abilities. I'm at that half-way point where people who haven't a notion about art would say "oh wow! did you really do this yourself?" while a trained professional would go "ooooooof!". You know what, that's okay, making art is an ongoing journey and the more I do it the better I'll get at it. And with you, dear Prof, and your fellow artists, I feel that I'll be in good hands. There's lots of inspiration, lots of fun and great teaching. Thank you all so very much!
I share everything that I do art wise. Whether good bad or whatever. I feel it's just a public record of my progression as an artist. Not that a big a deal. But could be beneficial in the future. Plus, I get an idea of what people think of my art. Which is nice as I get an idea of which pieces speak to people. Also, I can find out if I am portraying the emotion of my intention. It's also part of my therapy as I heal from trauma. So I do art fairly regularly. It's one of my coping mechanisms.
It's true, sharing online does give you a way to discover community and watch your growth as an artist. You might find this playlist on Artist Wellness interesting to your practice: ruclips.net/p/PLvt8_pMl6ywmcgYhq9ikesClM1qVSJIg5 -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
i have a realy good tip on the expectation point: When im in a low like this (... wich sometimes happens) i get my self back to exersizing: instead of doing an actual piece I will practice my drawing/ painting until i feel confident enough to start a piece again.
This is a really good tip! Artist block and burnout can make it so hard to come up with substantial ideas for pieces, so practicing your skills is the perfect way to stay creative without any additional stress. Thank you so much for sharing! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Now, I’m 60. When I was young I loved to draw. My first stab at college I majored in Commercial Art. Big mistake for me. 1. I was so intimidated by the talent of the other students. 2. Commercial art was so rigid and stifling for me. And when it comes to being creative, I need to progress at my own pace without deadlines. I absolutely hate painting for others. I will never make money from what I create. It just takes all the enjoyment out of it. My day job is in data analytics. It pays the bills, and allows me to create on my own terms. I love art. Whether it is doing my own, learning something new, going to art museums, doing classes, reading up on the arts and artists. Art for me is the present. The experience in the moment. It’s my journey.
The best way that I have found to overcome fear and perfectionism with drawing is to buy some super cheap Dollar Store sketch pads or loose leaf notebook paper. And I just use a regular number 2 pencil, when I'm trying to get mileage in. Using the cheap stuff helps me get started and not care so much about the outcome.
The big problem with being self-taught at anything is that you can easily end up with big gaps in your knowledge. Most of the skills and the knowledge I have in most areas comes from my own reading and not via any college or university course I might have done ❣️🤪👍
Great point! A benefit to that, though, is that you have a more streamlined education in a way-- straight to what you're interested in, and nothing useless taking up space! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
This was really interesting. I particularly resonate with what you say at about 18:00 about using different materials/ media. I did a 10 week art class. We were doing painting in watercolour, acrylic inks, mixed media etc. Then we had a charcoal class. I thought that I wouldn't like it but it needed up being my favourite. So I agree that it is important to try different media etc and you never know what you'll like using. Perhaps it will be the one you expect to enjoy the least.
A difficulty for self taught artists is that we lack the opportunity to try different media. Art schools have studios where messy and expensive materials can be used.
i was completely self taught until covid then i discovered youtube. there was NO art in my school and collage was for rich kids (this was 20+yrs ago). i bought books of works by old masters, i drew whatever came into my head or whatever i saw that appealed. i made a "lunch break" challenge (just what it sounds like) draw a picture on my break, no reference most of the time. i still use deviant art mostly as a place to showcase my art and see what others were doing that might inspire me. most my sketchbook is an idea book and experimental area. i don't have time every day and i always have a bigger piece going but i still use it to relax as often as possible, still doing lunch break drawings.
I LOVE the idea of a "lunch break" challenge! That is so wonderful, hopefully you can compile all of your challenges into a series one day! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
novice artist mainly doing it because it actually helps me to relax take my body down a notch, which may not be the case if I was a professional artist doing this for a living with deadlines
I feel like style is the equivalent of personality. 'Choosing' a style would be the same as actively choosing a personality to enact rather than just simply letting your personality come through.
You might like our curriculums for self taught artists! This page has them all, there is a Basics curriculum that you like to start with: artprof.org/library/learn/curriculums/ -Prof Lieu
How I wish somebody critics my work, someone knowledgeable. I do self-critic all the time..but I know, I need a true artist to get inspiration/instruction from.
I guess my biggest concern is that I learn techniques correctly. I am a self-taught quilter dabbling in art. But being self-taught in quilting, I found that there were a lot of things that I could have been doing better. I didn’t know these tips until I learned more from Guild members, some videos, and taking classes at quilting conventions. My quilts were a hot mess when I started. I’m sure my art will be no different. Lol 😂 and I’m ok with that. I’m no spring chicken but need something to distract me from the stress of work.
One of my favorite things about self-taught artists, or artists diving into a new medium, is that they come up with new and imaginative ways to do things that artists who've mastered techniques might not have even thought of! -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
I evolved from drawing posters, to comics, to portraits then doing bonsai. I skip arts school to study chemistry. Nowadays im just casually learning art history. Maybe someday i can pursue careers in art.
That's awesome!! It's so cool how you're learning a bunch of different things, I'm sure your studies will all influence each other as you continue to create :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Thank you for these tips. They are helpful and encouraging to those of us who are (mostly) self taught. Do you consider watching youtube and using other online sources and books as being self-taught? I ask because that is how I have learned most of what I know. XXXX
I don't have artist friends that I can talk to about my art! I am very conscious about my self and my art... I do post on my Instagram account however I don't really have a friend that I can go in detailed discussion with about art! 😒
We would love for you to join our Discord Server, we have tons of conversations everyday about art, and you can post your work for critiques from our staff and other people too! Here is the invite link: discord.gg/g5XQRpT :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
i started with a artbook. i have bought several different mediums. but everything is bodgy..depending on yt and books for lessons. but i think i'm at the end of just getting the various how to instructions. i got spplies of everything in [except styrofoam balls etc]..really i got to stop watching events online 24/7 and hive off and just solidly do art until i do a piece which is okay...you do realise we are having a global renaissance ? the world might be going to hell in a handbasket but we shall make New Art all the way..
Talking about artist style really frustrates me, what is the big deal? Your hand writing is what it is, and although it changes in some characteristics over the years, it still remains yours, am I wrong, but art style is the same, and comes uniquely form the artist and allows for such fantastic diversity in art.
I agree! I think it's so cool when people have variety, but I also think stylistic preferences are cool. Art is just so wonderful! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Self-taught advice- eliminate tv almost COMPLETELY. IT’S A Time thief. Try not to wander from art videos into watching cute animals on the dodo, etc. lol. I call it research.
I'm so bad at using distractions when I make art! I either watch reruns or listen to podcasts, haha. Most of the time it stays background noise, but you're right-- it's a total time thief! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
A lot of Fluxus artists didn't come from art institutions, but have since been incorporated in the institutional canon, so I can see where it may get confusing for some people! -Lauryn (Art Prof Teaching Artist)
I actually accidentally made friends with the person I was impressed by so first day of drawing 1 class everyone's doing introductions. Everyone but her just says their name and age she says all the stuff she has accomplished in art so far and I was just like :O. I thought we would never be friends but next day in design 1 class she sits next to me and we became friends. After a couple weeks I realized she hyped herself up and she wasnt much better than me. Im still super glad im friends with her. Its also intresting because she hypes everything she does up while I tend to put my stuff down. I have a few different art friends and I definitely recommend making art friends other people just dont understand the art struggles
That's so cool! I actually have a similar experience. In college I met a bunch of people who talked all about their work and achievements, when I was too self conscious. Becoming friends with them boosted my confidence so much, and now I tend to hold my head a lot higher when it comes to talking about my work! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I don't think anyone can teach you to paint. you have to put in the practice and learn for yourself. you can only go so far in a school. my degree is graphic arts. i taught myself to draw and paint
Very very true-- professors can help out and give you tricks, but you get out of it what you put in! Practice is the only real way to learn - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Practicing the same thing over and over doesn’t lead to improvement. Just look at all the same same same pretty cartoony faces in IG and YT that the artists call portraits.
Yep, there's totally a difference between drawing the same things over and over because you truly love them, and just doing it to be "safe" and "trendy". Thanks for watching! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I’m still trying to get discovered and get better supportive fans . I’m a self tought artist and I don’t go to college for a reason and I’m struggling . Been using Facebook, Instagram, TikTok , and RUclips. Even twitch . I did created a video how I started painting and why . People that also don’t understand my disability and how much I struggle. They don’t understand that my art are my kids if I don’t have 2 or 3 the same original pieces of art to keep 1 and have the rest to Sell , it’s hard to make the same original artwork. People don’t respect how I feel when I made this and can’t sell them .I love making art .I still get scams more than fans and ongoing fans . Nft scammers are sneaky. I never get ongoing fans that always comment on any of my social medias and ask questions about my art . There is a random person this week went on my personal Facebook account that’s not my Facebook art page comment on my photos saying nasty stuff randomly about my logo and art work where my overprotective family and friends can see and say it’s blurry but I know it’s not blurry and start using a laughing emoji on my post . People like her is immature. My mom says people don’t understand your art and why and how you feel and don’t understand your disability are evil . People like that are evil . youtube.com/@pocahontasseguinart7099 ruclips.net/video/tqdq26oisN0/видео.html www.tiktok.com/@pocahontasseguinart instagram.com/pocahontasseguinart?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw== twitch.tv/pocahontasseguinart_ facebook.com/PocahontasSeguinArt?mibextid=LQQJ4d 19:46
We are so sorry you've been dealing with scammers and hate online-- it's the ugly underbelly of this entire field that people rarely talk about! I think the most important thing is that you create and post for YOU instead of trying to appease an audience. If what you're posting is genuine, your audience will find you in time. Good luck to you!! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
@@artprof I just want to be discovered , tell my story , save people that need help and animals , and save the world . I love art . That’s what’s different about me .
![Megan Thee Stallion - Mamushi (Remix) [feat. TWICE] [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/5c0_u9PsrsQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Watch our video How to Stay Motivated as an Artist: ruclips.net/video/ijVS-pmeQPg/видео.html
Clara said something in one of her videos that inspired me, and has become my mantra when I feel that fear of the blank page. Loosely, it went something like this:
“You will *never* regret trying to draw. You might regret *what* you draw today, but you will *never* regret trying to draw.”
I’m trying to keep this in mind until it becomes a habit to think this way.
Such a great quote!!!! Incredible mantra :) - Mia, Art Prof Staff
I think self-taught artists should immerse themselves in art history and study how past artists they admire approached line, tone, value, palettes, and experimentation. When I was in high school, one of my art teachers encouraged master studies but told us to think of ways to change them-everything from using different media than the master work, changing the colors used, or even changing the perspective.
Self-taught artist here, and for me it was making contacts.
Getting skills is just a matter of thoughtful work. But getting the right contacts is difficult and takes years.
I've studied architecture and was always interested in art history, so spent (and still do) a lot of time in museums.
My tip would be to focus on what interest you and not follow trends. Really dig deep in where your interests are, as this will open up your path eventually.
That is such a great point!! Thank you so much for sharing your expertise :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I believe that there has been times when someone who is self-taught stumble onto something that is new. They came across their art because there were not others telling them otherwise. When one is taught too much, it can impede into the possibility of the new.
I'm a self taught beginner to intermediate artist. Just watching your youtubes have really given me a wealth of information on products, that I didn't know existed. Thank you so much, and I love your contagious smile.
Happy to help!😄
I’m not an artist but I LOVE watching these videos. The vive is so uplifting. This teacher is just what a teacher should be. Thanks Jordan and Cat too !!!!
love this. I just made a video about how I became a full-time artist (self-taught)
I went to MVCC in Utica, NY One of my illustration teachers said that we are all self taught in school or not. It was the teacher's job to introduce us to techniques and tools and to give us advice on how to use them. It was our job as students to teach ourselves and to experiment with the tools. The projects we were given was the vehicle with which to experiment, discover something new, inspire creativity and to present that experience. I should have paid more attention to that message.
The way I see it when prof lieu said why work on anatomy when you’re not interested in before you want to do start something else. I think it’s valid because I think diving into something that we are interested in gives us the fuel and drive to continue drawing. I remembered trying to be very technical killed my motivation but when I draw what I love, it’s easier to be in the zone. I’m recently getting into anatomy after drawing portraits for too long. My interests are constantly changing so I’m constantly shifting focus to learn different skills.
Jordan is just showing off with that smile... so bright and contagious! 🤩😂
Haha, it'll blind you! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Love this topic. Art class in high school was my favourite class but after failing the art exam in o level I stopped drawing painting and all things art till very recently and I realised why I failed, the whole class was basically a fun hour long chill session with paint, charcoal and sketchbooks but as far as learning there was next to none done, but it is still a dear memory. However, now I am starting my art education from zero and this channel is one of my favourite resources.
Thank you for this discussion.
So glad you found us! -Prof Lieu
I had a similar experience. I didn't like art class in school, because we had these do this the way you like classes. Grades felt random and I never knew what I did right or wrong. I liked the process of making art and the first time I had a teacher teaching me something, I started liking art class (but failed miserably). Now I like learning about art, knowing art is a craft not a mysterious talent thing.
i just joined discord and i feel like my whole world just opened up! im so excited to learn and get involved!! thank you for all these resources and awesome community!!:)
Wonderful!
I'm a self taught artist and it took me 20 years of personal study and doing other things before I mustered enough courage to pursue art full-time. I still don't consider myself a technically proficient artist but I think spending all that time thinking, looking and making art on the side, being super critical and beating myself down, and just honing my vision of what I was capable of and appreciating what I can make that was me and not like anyone else gave me the confidence to just do it and not get too worried about what other people might think. Getting feedback is great but it should be not at the expense of cutting yourself out of the picture. What's really important for me I think was figuring out what I wanted to convey with my art. And sometimes it is really that simple. Also a knowing a bit of art theory and history really helps because it helps generate questions. And those questions really led me down the path of looking at outsider art as my source of inspiration. Suddenly my bad skills became a kind of touchstone. Lol.
I think you're so right in saying that art should be primarily about what you as an artist want to express, not how to please other people. Doing what you love will bring out your best abilities, and we're so glad you've honed your vision! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I think style is an ambigious term. What most people, most beginners, mean by style is a more or less accidental look that is a consequence of their strengths and weaknesses - it's sort of a snapshot of their arrested development - rather than something deliberate and consistent.
Style, in the actual sense, is a consistent and deliberate abstraction. Take something like the Simpsons, their style follows some clear structures - e.g. Yellow, there are only so and so many chins, haircuts, a few different height levels bla bla. You could say that a comic artist goes back to his own stage of symbolic drawing again, this time on his own terms backed by fundamental understanding. There is a set of four BBC documentaries on the modern masters: a few minutes in, an English sculptor says about Picasso that he could work in any style he wanted, because he was so fundamentally sound. So style, in my book, is systematic consist manipulation of fundamentals.
this content is so, so helpful and appreciated. i've been a self-guided artist since after high school. this is super helpful and it means so much that you're making the time and putting this much effort and care. thanks so much
I just found this channel today. I'm enrolled in Storyteller Academy for writing. I think I found my spot for self-teaching art. Thank you so much for this channel! ❤
I'm so glad you found us! Check out our main website, artprof.org/! There’s a ton of content that isn’t on RUclips, and provides a quick overview that is hard to get on RUclips. -Prof Lieu
I was influenced by art teachers and I definitely believe in formal art school. Anything that is a proven trait. A love for what you do.. Composition, Composition , subject matter, perspective, shading light, expression, drawling skills,brush skills...everything is important.. Learn everything but do what you love.
Great point!! I think that learning is very valuable, but it should all serve your passion projects in the end :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Thank you for everything you do. This is really inspirational. It helps me feel accompanied and draw while I watch your videos. You have built such a nice community. I've also joined discord, I'm still learning how to use it haha I only joined to be on the art prof community.
Thank you so much 😀 -Prof Lieu
All of you three are soo lovely. It was so much fun watching this video and to see I’m not alone with my struggle
You are far from alone, join the Art Prof Discord and hang out with us there! discord.gg/g5XQRpT -Prof Lieu
I started drawing when I was 7 and than I stopped when I was 20. Now I am 32 and I have been drawing/painting again for 1 year. Why? Because I have finally found my philosophy! That's what being an artist is all about. School might teach you to find your philosophy sooner, self thought can be a lengthier process but they are both ok. All the respect for the professor and the community she created! I am very grateful for being here. Artists should know their philosophy and values. That's when the fear and useless experimenting stops and all you will do is create uniqueness.
That's a great way of putting it! Once an artist finds true inspiration, they'll be able to create works they're really proud of. We're glad you found yours again :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Thanks so much for this video, it really inspired me! I've started painting & drawing more seriously in the last few months, and you just gave me some great pointers; plus your discussion on sketching made me get out my pencils and sketch along as I watched the video. I've never done live figure drawing or sketched moving people before, so I really challenged myself not to hit pause and try to capture you while you were speaking, laughing, moving your heads etc. which was a new experience for me! I agree with you that sketching can make it less intimidating bc there's no expectation that it has to be good.
We are so happy you liked it!! Keep going-- figure drawing only gets more and more fun the longer you keep at it! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
I once drew a still life which I liked, but there was something not right. There was a cutting board in the picture. I just couldn’t get it right. I picked up the board, realized it was hand made and the proportions of the handle were subtly crooked and out of whack…wow! A ta-da moment…
That's amazing! It sounds like drawing the cutting board taught you how to see the cutting board in a new way! -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
I must say, you guys are the best especially Professor Liue. Always producing good, informative, quality critiques and talks about art and it really educates me a lot. Also thank you for the "Smart history" suggestion!
Wow, thank you!
I took notes. On a Sunday. That's just wrong.
I laughed so hard when I read this!! -Prof Lieu
Took a few art courses at nearby college as I work full time. The basic drawing class was actually the best experience so far primarily because of the good instructor. She promoted her students to experiment with various media such as ink, pastel, charcoal. The rest of art courses, including basic watercolor, 2-dimensional/colors, ceramics, all seemed to be more of self-exploration. I’ve paused on enrolling in art classes for now and viewing RUclips instead. Glad to have found ArtProf !
We're so glad this seems to be working for you!! Thanks for watching :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I am a self taught artist and I have always been very curious and attracted to art ( I began long before the internet) and started being attracted to art and artists I saw in Magazines or news paper and then began copying both drawing and painting images I liked. When I had birthday I always wanted colors and at 12 years I got my first oil artist colors and I was “ in heaven” - but I was also very aware that it is about being very much open to was is important and that it had to do with courage to “do things in different ways” to experiment and to improvise and since I also was into Contemporary dance I learned a lot from different ways of working with movement and dance improvisation - and here I learned that you have to “get rid of the observer and give yourself unconditionally to the living now” if you observe yourself you cannot be totally unconditionally present - if you get to conscious you risk to work to “please others or yourself” and you cannot get “into the zone” - so critiquing and copying arre interesting steps on the way of getting experience and knowledge but you have to go into the Landscape with total awareness and be able to focus in different ways which by the way is the strongest way to stay curious and motivated.
And of course drawing and painting a lot - and then you learn a lot by investigating art - both ancient and Contemporary, to go to exhibition, to exhibite, to engage with the art World around you - and dont be afraid , be curious, experiment, learn techniques not to limit yourself to them but to broaden your possibilities, and I look at style as different ways of expressing yourself e.g in dance there are so many styles and each style has different possibilities like languages - and its quite fun to be open
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us!! Visual art and dance are such amazing ways to express yourself creatively. As you said, there are so many different "languages" when it comes to dancing and creating art-- might as well try and learn as many as you can! If you liked this video, you might also enjoy this one where Prof Lieu learns Procreate for the first time: ruclips.net/video/ZCe2dzBnDBo/видео.html Thanks for watching :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I recently found Art Prof it's great, and you're all doing a wonderful job. I was interested by Rachael Dias's question about not being able to draw for weeks after doing a good painting. I do something a little similar. When I do a painting I'm pleased with I then can't do another one because I'm too scared. I think it was just luck, and I'm sure next time I'll mess up, and fail. Trying to overcome this, but it's hard. Also sometimes I find myself in a cul de sac, and feel stuck and can't get out, and I can't work out why. Really interesting video, lots of good ideas. Thanks.
What helps me is to produce A LOT of work, makes each piece less precious and easier to move on. -Prof Lieu
I am an entirely self-taught artist! I have improved by leaps and bounds especially after taking a series of intense and full time art classes and individual instruction by an award winning art instructor.
Way to go! You're putting in the effort that it takes! -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
Another great video! These suggestions are good and relevant to any artist, whether a novice or an experienced professional.
Absolutely!
I agree there is so much and finding your extensive set of tutorials really helps to structure my learning which I think can be helpful .
Structured learning can be so valuable, we're happy you're watching! If you'd like to watch another self-taught artist video, check this out: ruclips.net/video/KIEXU1tP8rI/видео.html you might enjoy it :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Absolutely! Yess!!!! I'm sitting here talking at the screen! I love your channel, it's so refreshing and very very helpful! I've made a few attempts over the years into 'formal' art study doing evening courses but was very put off by measuring with pencils (my mind just went blank every time the teacher had us stick our arm out with the pencil to measure the proportions on the model) and the day I quit was when the teacher painted over the entire portrait I worked on so that in the end it wasn't mine anymore! It really took the fun out of creating art and I only found joy again when I studied other self-taught artists' work and went my own merry way within my range of abilities. I'm at that half-way point where people who haven't a notion about art would say "oh wow! did you really do this yourself?" while a trained professional would go "ooooooof!". You know what, that's okay, making art is an ongoing journey and the more I do it the better I'll get at it. And with you, dear Prof, and your fellow artists, I feel that I'll be in good hands. There's lots of inspiration, lots of fun and great teaching. Thank you all so very much!
I'm so glad we could help you!!! -Prof Lieu
I share everything that I do art wise. Whether good bad or whatever. I feel it's just a public record of my progression as an artist. Not that a big a deal. But could be beneficial in the future. Plus, I get an idea of what people think of my art. Which is nice as I get an idea of which pieces speak to people. Also, I can find out if I am portraying the emotion of my intention. It's also part of my therapy as I heal from trauma. So I do art fairly regularly. It's one of my coping mechanisms.
It's true, sharing online does give you a way to discover community and watch your growth as an artist. You might find this playlist on Artist Wellness interesting to your practice: ruclips.net/p/PLvt8_pMl6ywmcgYhq9ikesClM1qVSJIg5 -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
i have a realy good tip on the expectation point: When im in a low like this (... wich sometimes happens) i get my self back to exersizing: instead of doing an actual piece I will practice my drawing/ painting until i feel confident enough to start a piece again.
This is a really good tip! Artist block and burnout can make it so hard to come up with substantial ideas for pieces, so practicing your skills is the perfect way to stay creative without any additional stress. Thank you so much for sharing! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Now, I’m 60. When I was young I loved to draw. My first stab at college I majored in Commercial Art. Big mistake for me. 1. I was so intimidated by the talent of the other students. 2. Commercial art was so rigid and stifling for me. And when it comes to being creative, I need to progress at my own pace without deadlines. I absolutely hate painting for others. I will never make money from what I create. It just takes all the enjoyment out of it. My day job is in data analytics. It pays the bills, and allows me to create on my own terms. I love art. Whether it is doing my own, learning something new, going to art museums, doing classes, reading up on the arts and artists. Art for me is the present. The experience in the moment. It’s my journey.
The best way that I have found to overcome fear and perfectionism with drawing is to buy some super cheap Dollar Store sketch pads or loose leaf notebook paper. And I just use a regular number 2 pencil, when I'm trying to get mileage in. Using the cheap stuff helps me get started and not care so much about the outcome.
Oh that's a wonderful idea! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
The big problem with being self-taught at anything is that you can easily end up with big gaps in your knowledge. Most of the skills and the knowledge I have in most areas comes from my own reading and not via any college or university course I might have done ❣️🤪👍
Great point! A benefit to that, though, is that you have a more streamlined education in a way-- straight to what you're interested in, and nothing useless taking up space! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
This was really interesting. I particularly resonate with what you say at about 18:00 about using different materials/ media. I did a 10 week art class. We were doing painting in watercolour, acrylic inks, mixed media etc. Then we had a charcoal class. I thought that I wouldn't like it but it needed up being my favourite. So I agree that it is important to try different media etc and you never know what you'll like using. Perhaps it will be the one you expect to enjoy the least.
Nice! I'm glad you stuck it out and ended up finding a medium you absolutely loved! 🥰 -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
A difficulty for self taught artists is that we lack the opportunity to try different media. Art schools have studios where messy and expensive materials can be used.
This is true, one can't just have a foundry in their living room! -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
i was completely self taught until covid then i discovered youtube. there was NO art in my school and collage was for rich kids (this was 20+yrs ago). i bought books of works by old masters, i drew whatever came into my head or whatever i saw that appealed. i made a "lunch break" challenge (just what it sounds like) draw a picture on my break, no reference most of the time. i still use deviant art mostly as a place to showcase my art and see what others were doing that might inspire me. most my sketchbook is an idea book and experimental area. i don't have time every day and i always have a bigger piece going but i still use it to relax as often as possible, still doing lunch break drawings.
I LOVE the idea of a "lunch break" challenge! That is so wonderful, hopefully you can compile all of your challenges into a series one day! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
@@artprof finished the first book earlier this year. 10yrs in the making.started the next with mostly line and wash.
novice artist mainly doing it because it actually helps me to relax take my body down a notch, which may not be the case if I was a professional artist doing this for a living with deadlines
Thanks so much. I am self taught other than senior year in high school and pieces of advice from some very intuitive grade school teachers.
You are so welcome! We hope you keep creating :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I feel like style is the equivalent of personality. 'Choosing' a style would be the same as actively choosing a personality to enact rather than just simply letting your personality come through.
This is very well said! Thank you so much for watching :) - Mia, Art Prof Staff
Self taught artist here! These tips are definitely helpful! Thank you!
You might like our curriculums for self taught artists! This page has them all, there is a Basics curriculum that you like to start with: artprof.org/library/learn/curriculums/ -Prof Lieu
@@artprof inwill be looking into all of this! Thanks again! 😘
definitely self taught but also love learning new ideas and techniques from other artist
Glad to have you with us! -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
very informative 💜
I'm self-taught
struggling and lost feeling~
😶
How I wish somebody critics my work, someone knowledgeable. I do self-critic all the time..but I know, I need a true artist to get inspiration/instruction from.
I guess my biggest concern is that I learn techniques correctly. I am a self-taught quilter dabbling in art. But being self-taught in quilting, I found that there were a lot of things that I could have been doing better. I didn’t know these tips until I learned more from Guild members, some videos, and taking classes at quilting conventions. My quilts were a hot mess when I started. I’m sure my art will be no different. Lol 😂 and I’m ok with that. I’m no spring chicken but need something to distract me from the stress of work.
One of my favorite things about self-taught artists, or artists diving into a new medium, is that they come up with new and imaginative ways to do things that artists who've mastered techniques might not have even thought of! -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
self taught and Happy about my productions
Love to hear it! Self taught artists work hard! -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
@@artprof it's invaluable no ?! thanks for your reply by the Way.
it's appreciated
Loved it.. each and every tips were really helpfull..
I evolved from drawing posters, to comics, to portraits then doing bonsai. I skip arts school to study chemistry. Nowadays im just casually learning art history. Maybe someday i can pursue careers in art.
That's awesome!! It's so cool how you're learning a bunch of different things, I'm sure your studies will all influence each other as you continue to create :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Thank you for these tips. They are helpful and encouraging to those of us who are (mostly) self taught. Do you consider watching youtube and using other online sources and books as being self-taught? I ask because that is how I have learned most of what I know. XXXX
Yes, I think the difference is if you enrolled in a formal degree program that makes you not self-taught. -Prof Lieu
Love these videos. Thanks
Thanks for watching! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Love the spaghetti analogy.
It's perfect for this! -Prof Lieu
Self educated like Lincoln.. Bought a perspective book in 9th grade..
Oh that's awesome! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
I don't have artist friends that I can talk to about my art! I am very conscious about my self and my art... I do post on my Instagram account however I don't really have a friend that I can go in detailed discussion with about art! 😒
We would love for you to join our Discord Server, we have tons of conversations everyday about art, and you can post your work for critiques from our staff and other people too! Here is the invite link: discord.gg/g5XQRpT :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
@@artprof thank you so much! I know you talk about it a lot but never really knew how to join! 😊😊😊 I will, thank you 🖤✌🏻
You don’t need much learning to paint like basquiat
What I do is draw a finish drawing after practicing.
Yes-- practice is the most important thing! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
Do you guys still do art critiques? And can it be in any medium for your art to be critiqued?
We do! Feel free to check out the details here: artprof.org/services/ - Mia, Art Prof Staff
@@artprof thanks!
Lot of wisdom 👍
I agree! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
i started with a artbook. i have bought several different mediums. but everything is bodgy..depending on yt and books for lessons. but i think i'm at the end of just getting the various how to instructions. i got spplies of everything in [except styrofoam balls etc]..really i got to stop watching events online 24/7 and hive off and just solidly do art until i do a piece which is okay...you do realise we are having a global renaissance ? the world might be going to hell in a handbasket but we shall make New Art all the way..
Haha, we will go down creating, at least! Thank you so much for watching, good luck with your sketchbook :) - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Talking about artist style really frustrates me, what is the big deal? Your hand writing is what it is, and although it changes in some characteristics over the years, it still remains yours, am I wrong, but art style is the same, and comes uniquely form the artist and allows for such fantastic diversity in art.
I agree! I think it's so cool when people have variety, but I also think stylistic preferences are cool. Art is just so wonderful! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Self-taught advice- eliminate tv almost COMPLETELY. IT’S A Time thief. Try not to wander from art videos into watching cute animals on the dodo, etc. lol. I call it research.
I'm so bad at using distractions when I make art! I either watch reruns or listen to podcasts, haha. Most of the time it stays background noise, but you're right-- it's a total time thief! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
❤
These older streams look like talking 1x1 ID pictures
Haha, we've definitely improved! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
That’s funny that you didn’t know Yoko Ono was self-taught that is sort of self evident
A lot of Fluxus artists didn't come from art institutions, but have since been incorporated in the institutional canon, so I can see where it may get confusing for some people! -Lauryn (Art Prof Teaching Artist)
where is the link to discord
Here! discord.gg/g5XQRpT
I actually accidentally made friends with the person I was impressed by so first day of drawing 1 class everyone's doing introductions. Everyone but her just says their name and age she says all the stuff she has accomplished in art so far and I was just like :O. I thought we would never be friends but next day in design 1 class she sits next to me and we became friends. After a couple weeks I realized she hyped herself up and she wasnt much better than me. Im still super glad im friends with her. Its also intresting because she hypes everything she does up while I tend to put my stuff down. I have a few different art friends and I definitely recommend making art friends other people just dont understand the art struggles
That's so cool! I actually have a similar experience. In college I met a bunch of people who talked all about their work and achievements, when I was too self conscious. Becoming friends with them boosted my confidence so much, and now I tend to hold my head a lot higher when it comes to talking about my work! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Maybe I'm dumb ...but I watched this video twice
Haha, that will help you retain the info better! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Thank you so much
You're most welcome! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
35:45
I don't think anyone can teach you to paint. you have to put in the practice and learn for yourself. you can only go so far in a school. my degree is graphic arts. i taught myself to draw and paint
Very very true-- professors can help out and give you tricks, but you get out of it what you put in! Practice is the only real way to learn - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
Jordan! Di you say you were vegan? I'm vegan to.Vegan meatballs all the way!
@Vodoo Child A ball made out of dead flesh is still just a ball too lol
Can you really teach someone to be an artist? If someone doesn't have the "talent", they are never going to be an artist.
We have a discussion here on whether drawing is a talent or a skill: ruclips.net/video/Uz3TD0kBfec/видео.html
-Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist
Practicing the same thing over and over doesn’t lead to improvement. Just look at all the same same same pretty cartoony faces in IG and YT that the artists call portraits.
Yep, there's totally a difference between drawing the same things over and over because you truly love them, and just doing it to be "safe" and "trendy". Thanks for watching! - Mia Rozear, Art Prof Staff
There is no such thing as self taught artist.
Says who? You? Lol
I’m still trying to get discovered and get better supportive fans . I’m a self tought artist and I don’t go to college for a reason and I’m struggling . Been using Facebook, Instagram, TikTok , and RUclips. Even twitch . I did created a video how I started painting and why . People that also don’t understand my disability and how much I struggle. They don’t understand that my art are my kids if I don’t have 2 or 3 the same original pieces of art to keep 1 and have the rest to
Sell , it’s hard to make the same original artwork. People don’t respect how I feel when I made this and can’t sell them .I love making art .I still get scams more than fans and ongoing fans . Nft scammers are sneaky. I never get ongoing fans that always comment on any of my social medias and ask questions about my art . There is a random person this week went on my personal Facebook account that’s not my Facebook art page comment on my photos saying nasty stuff randomly about my logo and art work where my overprotective family and friends can see and say it’s blurry but I know it’s not blurry and start using a laughing emoji on my post . People like her is immature. My mom says people don’t understand your art and why and how you feel and don’t understand your disability are evil . People like that are evil . youtube.com/@pocahontasseguinart7099
ruclips.net/video/tqdq26oisN0/видео.html
www.tiktok.com/@pocahontasseguinart
instagram.com/pocahontasseguinart?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw==
twitch.tv/pocahontasseguinart_
facebook.com/PocahontasSeguinArt?mibextid=LQQJ4d
19:46
We are so sorry you've been dealing with scammers and hate online-- it's the ugly underbelly of this entire field that people rarely talk about! I think the most important thing is that you create and post for YOU instead of trying to appease an audience. If what you're posting is genuine, your audience will find you in time. Good luck to you!! - Mia, Art Prof Staff
@@artprof I just want to be discovered , tell my story , save people that need help and animals , and save the world . I love art . That’s what’s different about me .