When I was a young illustrator over 20 years ago 🙄, the thing that enabled me to draw in later years without using photographic references WAS my use of photographic references. Particularly of the human figure. Training with photos taught me to push it further to make an image come to life. It also taught me to draw more economically, making every stroke count. It improved my sketching, taught me to say more with less. Or to say only what you wish to say with your drawing. That in turn improved my storytelling. An illustrator HAS to be able to sketch from his imagination, and to do it quickly. Training with photos is the fastest way to access and familiarise ourselves with that visual information. An illustrator's subject matter isn't always available in front of him. They often aren't even real. Where am I going to find a fantasy creature to pose for me ? The heft and textures on such a creature's put together from photographic refs of real animals. So you HAVE to LEARN TO USE photo refs for fantasy realism. It's not even an issue to an illustrator. Drawing skills is just one component of the many skills required to be an illustrator. Draw, sketch, draw, sketch, draw, sketch. Draw everything. Copy everything. Expand that visual library in you. Draw from life. ✔️ Draw from photos.✔️ Draw from imagination.✔️ Train in all three. Matters not if you are an illustrator or in the fine arts... Your tools can liberate you, if you're careful to not turn them into crutches.
In responce to your 'rant' .... Amen. Your heart, soul, humanity and intelligence is an inspiration. Your talent helps push me as an artist beyond my own limitations and helps make those limitations nothing more than challenges. From the bottom of my heart Andrew... Thank You!
The Louvre in Paris used to be full of art students with their easels copying the old masters to learn from them. It was a thing you had to do in so many European art schools, first copy the masters before you could create work of your own. No difference from using reference photos. The important thing is to draw and paint. And with your encouragement Andrew, that is what many people are doing :)
Exactly. The *only* exceptions are basically technical, like lens distortion and color. (You can't accurately copy a master painting from photo because the glazes are almost impossible to capture from photo.) BUT. Starting somewhere is better than never starting.
This is mostly misguided. Sure reference photos will always have a big place. But copying from one flat photo to another is not nearly the same superpower as observing stereoscopically and flattening down to a picture plane. Even more power comes in when you can start with a photo for information and ideas from and rotate the info in mental space for your compositional or conceptual purpose. If you can take your own photos you can work around your cognitive drawing limitations. New advancements better maniquinns and posers are surrogates and time savers. But this video isn't advocating that. The apt critique has always been why not just hang the photo on the wall and unless you use more than one photo you are maybe approximately plagiarizing. We all start somewhere though and copying from a photo will be great rendering practice and freeing for those of us who are frustrated by our cognitive drawing limitations. The mind that understands what it is sketching makes a line that is drastically observable different than one without the mental skills. Sometimes that lack of draftsmanship can be buried under rendering and sometimes it can't.
In major portraiture competitions such as the Lester Prize (formerly Black Swan in Western Australia) and Archibald, it is within their entry documentation that even though a person must state that they have sat for the artist on at least one occasion, photographic reference is not only allowed but required given its impossible to expect the subject to sit for 100 plus hours in some of the works that are being created.
Heck yes - they even demonstrated in the ABC special 'The Archibald' that the in person sitting doesn't need to be more than a napkin sketch. The photos are the visual information for the work.
Sooo many great, professional, successful artists out there use photos as reference in one way or another..nothing "wrong" with it. Just another tool to help the artist to create.
I could never afford art classes, and if it were not for my many hours of copying pictures and someone else's sketches, I would never have continued with my art hobby. Only through copying other artists did I learn, bit by bit, how to put things together....and progress on to oil painting. Your tutorials are inspiring.....thank you for reminding me to get my sketching off the back-burner and back into practice.
I been drawing portraits from photo references for over 30 plus years and love your comments on this I feel it's always challenged me to be a better portrait artist over many years and still feel I have so much more to learn so to you my friend thank you for bringing this to light to any and all that may see this I absolutely love your ideas and comments towards bettering yourself and not worry what others might think as long as I am happy with what I am doing that's what matters every single day is a growing process in our journey thanks again
Thanks for this one, Andrew! I've heard this time and time again and it irks me, too. Even in my Facebook group, I continue explaining this, and the comment just keeps popping up, especially among young artists and beginners. They seem to believe that drawing or painting from the imagination implies a higher level of achievement than using references. However, by having improved my own skills for many years using reference photos, as well as by drawing/painting from direct observation, I can very easily tell that these people's works have errors in perspective, shading and proportion. Many of my favorite artists used photographic references too, like Norman Rockwell and Toulouse-Lautrec. Now-a-days, I create most of my artwork using some kind of reference to jump off from (a photo, collage I've created, or a subject I have in front of me). I use my references as a kind of loose inspiration, as well as to get clues on lights and shadows, and details that I may not have remembered if I didn't have them (I'm not a machine and my brain can only hold so much information in it). :D I consider myself primarily a representational artist, but I do enjoy bringing a level of expression to my pieces, manipulating color and leaving brushstrokes behind. I use my artistic license to add, subtract to the picture or move things around if need be. I can do this because composition and exploration were drilled into my head in art school. In my opinion, it's important to learn to SEE and understand realism (color, value, perspective, how to recreate proportion freehand, etc.) BEFORE getting into more stylized artwork, at least when we're actually trying to improve our drawing or painting. There is a time and a place for drawing from our imagination, but in order to improve our observational skills and hand-eye coordination, it's essential to work from references when we're starting out. Later on, if one wishes to become more abstract and expressive, it's perfectly fine to go down that route. What's more, if one decides to create more stylized work, it'll be even more effective because the person started by studying realism. I've found this to be the case for many character designers out there. Yes, of course it is important to make original art. I would never use another artist's painting or illustration to get directly inspired by it. THAT, in my opinion, is copying. There are nuances that we can use as artists to make a piece our own, both when we're looking to arrive at high levels of abstraction and when we're going for the highest levels of realism. To finish up, you are totally correct. There are so many different ways to go about the creative process. No one way is right or wrong. It depends on the particular artist's current level and end-goals. Any person that says that there is only one way to go about doing things, or that says one way is right while the other is wrong, is just ignorant. Nothing is black and white. Thanks again and have a fantastic day!
I have never seen a better drawing in my entire life, and I am near 60 years old, believe me! Wow, you have pure talent, needless to say. That horse is so well done, just the drawing is so awesome!
Honing a skill is unique to the artist, by whatever means it takes ....cameras and photographs are tools of artistry to be used to enhance creativity.....well done Andrew for saying it’s allowed!
Great video, Andrew. I think just as we exercise our bodies, we must also exercise our minds and keep building discipline and conviction. This sketchendeavour journey has been great for that, and it's constantly making me silence that voice that keeps trying to compare myself with others and to simply do it for my own sake. P.S Thanks for the shout out!
Your wisdom is spot on in everything you've said. These purists lack the humble spirit of learning therefore they scorn it. Who needs their boast of absolute perception! It's not productive. Using any reference (and photograph is one) to teach oneself to improve is totally valid and worthy. You're a living example of it.
I estimate that I had almost 3000 hours of drawing experience by the time I graduated high school. I don't for one second feel that I was even "Good" at drawing by that time. I was very knowledgable about the pencils, the ink, but had no clue of how to render, model, or a face, a hand, or the body. I needed to "see" how to "SEE" the subject. Mastering a medium is nothing without learning how to SEE, and that is a huge part of drawing. Kudos to your pursuit of being a real Master, I know you understand what it truly is.
You are such an inspiration to me. Thank God I am in the space where I really do not give a darn what others think of how I need to learn. I have always found that those who criticize have the problem.
Its a pleasure to hear you explain things .....I would love to see you do an underwater paintings. And you are right when you say we should paint what ever we like, so why not any kind of photos.... not every one can visit The Taj Mahal but if someone whats to do a painting of it nothing should stop them.
Hi Andrew Once again I congratulate you on the excellent video. I have been with you for a long time and I would like to say that I admire you a lot, I admire your paintings and drawings, I admire you as an artist and above all I admire the person you are. I say this because I see in you a healthy and encouraging concern in wanting to teach everything you know to others. Besides being a great artist you are also a great teacher, I LEARNED A LOT FROM YOU, I want you to know that, and I'm sure many others have learned it too. Your videos encourage us to paint and draw. Sometimes I am in my little studio and I feel discouraged to paint, so I watch one of his videos and it instantly cheers me up. Yes, you motivate us to always want to be better, because you are like that, always looking for challenges, that's very good. In addition, the care taken in preparing the videos is remarkable, everything is very well shot in high definition, there are footage with drones in plein air, scenes at various angles in the studio. Everything is very well done so that we can enjoy your art and learning to the best of our ability. I always look forward to your videos. And you always have new and surprising ideas like Sketchendeavor. Wow, that was awesome! I still could not surrender to the challenge, because I work eight hours a day in a company here in Brazil, I am twelve hours away from home daily. I indulge in art only on the weekends, but that is changing and thanks to you. I promise I will soon post my daily drawings on Sketchendeavor. For all this my friend, thank you very much and do not care about negative comments, they are nothing compared to the grandeur of everything you have created for us. So let's go ahead, a lot of art awaits us, and as I said, I look forward to the next video. (and forgive my English, I had to use Google translate) Regards,
Thank you so much Claudio! I really appreciate your kind words. It's people like you, who keep me going and striving to do better with my videos. I am glad you find them inspiring and encouraging! Keep on going brother, remember with Sketchendeavour, it's not the amount of time that's important, its the HABIT! Start with 10 minutes a day (we all have that!) Good luck mate!
I want to thank photographers who are generous enough to share their images with the world. I use reference photos all the time, and I so appreciate the dedication of some who brave the elements, lug gear to remote areas at all hours of the day and night to capture amazing moments so I don't have to. Well done shutterbugs!
Your videos do so much not just to improve my drawing and painting, but also my mental health. This video was especially amazing because I was debating the fact if hyperrealistic art is truly art. I feel that this ties into the topics you were talking about with the photographic references.
Absolutely, I struggle with coming up with ideas without having to look stuff up but I have to careful not to copy. So I just Google animals and birds and all that stuff and it had definitely helped me improve my painting and drawing skills
So glad to hear you say this. The one big discouragement I received as a young teenage artist was that copying from photographs was "cheating" and that you had to be able to draw to this level "from your imagination" or you weren't an artist. What happens when you hear this? You just give up.
Mastery is Understanding. I like that. Mastery is also Wisdom and Effortless Accomplishment. Masters work smart and not always hard. It is about allowing Art to be expressed through you. Great video, brilliant drawing. Loved the insight. Thank you.
I’m sure masters didn’t think of themselves as masters at the time! Just recognised they were gifted in their field and wanted to give their best, like you.
Thank you Andrew. What a pleasure it is watching you draw. You have a great gift of being able to draw so accurately without using the erasure too much.
Thanks Andrew. Not only did you inspire me to draw for 1 hour every day (with a few exceptions, and drawing with pastels which I already do better), but I heard from you about Molly Bloom. The film is really great, and she proved to be a very brave, and ultimately wise woman. In addition, the film shows a bit of glamor, which is not as dazzling as it seems, and shows how dangerous it can be.
Thank you Andrew for sharing your journey in pursuing you drawing skills. This is exactly what I have been trying to achieve on my own but finding it difficult without a framework to plan my practice on...I will be following you and I am looking forward to this journey into my personal development. So good to be not doing it alone.
Yah, I’ve actually heard that too. “ don’t copy from photos” ! I stop drawing for awhile.( hmm) I realize how much my art benefits from it. Good point! Glad you brought that up thanks! Keep drawing :) !
I am always inspired by your podcast. My goals are not as high as yours because I just paint for pleasure and my age prohibits me from huge aspirations. But you give me the drive to improve on things a little bit of a time. I am a huge fan. Thank you for sharing!
Amen to your comments Andrew. It is so sad that a person can squash the dreams of so many by their off comments on how someone should think, work and use their talents. Decades ago I tried to go into an art gallery and show my work...the gentleman asked me what I specialized in. I told him I didn't, I painted and did what I felt or what someone wanted me to do for them. Needless to say he chewed me out so bad that I didn't pick up a brush for 4 years. He got into my head and made me feel that I was not cutout to be an artist or was good enough to pursue it....well shame on these thinkers and shame on me for allowing him or anyone to get into my head and make me feel I should quit. None of us should allow ANYONE to do this to us! We ARE artists and how we do it is our decision and our journey not theirs. The words you speak and all the time and endeavor you put in is valued by myself and I am sure so many others who follow you. Thank you for all that you do and for not holding back on your feelings on how you feel about these types of comments, it gives all of us hope that we can and will be great artists in our time with time and dedication on our part.
Yes! I'm glad to hear your position now, despite the negativity in the beginning. People have no idea about the horrible effect of their words. But hey, you're on the right path now, and you'll know crap when you hear it again!
these critics you get are actually manifestations of failure, jealousy and negative personality. As a digital marketing expert, we hear these from artists who failed in their careers! it is a very difficult task to be an artist and youtuber at the same time. You are a successful artist in many ways! Look at this you have a large subscribers who enjoy your content. Great work 👏
I love how you are clearly one of the best artists alive and yet you stand up to this nonsense pretentious side of the "art world". Good to heatr such things about drawing from photo etc. and your opinions on abstract art on your podcasts are also very refreshing. Love the content mate keep it coming!
Hi Andrew, would it be possible if you can do a video on your sketching paraphernalia? i.e different types of pencils: at what stage to use them, what are they used for etc, your fans and i would very much appreciate it :)..oh and great vid!
Hello! I totally agree with you. Photography is a tool like any other. Having such prejudices in your head is limiting our imagination and the worst way to make our work difficult and even painful.
Thank you Andrew for sharing your knowledge and understanding of you drive to be as good as you can be. Your father really did an awesome job of raising a son that has a focus of excellence!!! God Bless.
Andrew, you have no idea how much I appreciate these videos! Thank you so much. It's very rare to find an artist as superbly talented as you are, who's also as thoughtful, generous, and encouraging. You should be as proud of these videos as you must be of your exquisite work 👌🏽
I liked what Cesar Santos said about working from photographs - that he's working from life regardless - HIS LIFE! Thanks again for another inspiring video Andrew, always interesting to hear your thoughts too.
Brilliant. Following all progress and engaging myself in the process of art by copying photographic references. Learning a lot and pushing myself for sure. I am even starting to consider myself an artist as a result. Screw the 'experts'.
I’m with you Andrew, you still have to use your own eyes, your own hands your own interpretation of a reference, we all have our own style, put the same photo reference in front of 100 artists and they all will be different. The reference doesn’t matter if it’s from life we still try to imitate, from reference the same. We are after likeness not a copy! I will never accept that statement from anyone. Great sketching Andrew!
I draw mostly for the idea of mastery, albeit I'm still early in my adventure and working out on checking off proficient-to-advanced skill in all fundamentals. There's nothing I really *want* to draw, no story to tell. Nothing but pure, raw enjoyment of this craft. And if I ever want to draw something, then that'll come by itself. So this speaks to my interest very much. And I appreciate you laying a form of path for others to look upon and see, 'hey, you can really walk here afterall. It's not a dead end.'. It made me rethink how I want to tackle my improvements and setting up more of a lifestyle as opposed to a schedule of learning and enjoying art. To dare put time into the same thing over and over, with slight improvements and variations each time adding up rapidly. It's a joy! I don't really use accounts for youtube, I just check in on channels I like now and then. But I feel I want to give you the support I can for this. So I did like and I did subscribe. I think you're onto something very worthwhile and I feel happy to encourage you to keep at it. :)
Thank you, Andrew! I used to think the same thing, years ago. Then I saw ASTONISHING paintings by the American master of western art, Martin Grelle. I befriended him and took workshops from him. He told me point-blank, "your work will only be as strong as the quality of your reference images." He advised me to take photos constantly, hire models, shoot a thousand photos a day at photoshoots, and draw, draw, draw--exactly what you're saying. Since then, I've taken his advice, and have invested thousands of dollars over the years to hire models, horse wranglers, historical prop masters, and history advisors. Sure enough, my work has gotten so much stronger. And best of all, this approach has actually improved my creativity, too.
Afterthought: there are drawbacks that people should be aware of, too. For example, camera foreshortening has fooled me into painting some really bizarre anatomy, when I was first started and not used to this. Being very tall, I also forgot to account for heigh when taking reference photos, resulting in a downward POV and skewed my subjects. I never noticed until I saw the images on screen, and have since learned to adjust. Photos can flatten shadows and over-enhance the saturation of backgrounds, so we need to watch out for that.
I used to work for a major animation studio, and had to draw not only characters, but realistic scenery, buildings, vehicles, everything, and from any angle, and used reams of paper for reference photographs. You just can't imagine accurately things that you have never seen in different angles, like the horseperson mentioning the horses' conformation. Photographs are essential as a learning tool; as many as you can. If you're not interested in realism then it doesn't matter, just go for whatever, but no sense in knocking someone else's method of working, I say. If you just flat-out copy someone's photo, sell it and don't give them credit for it, then there's a problem. Your work speaks for itself, Andrew.
Thank you Andrew, you are such and inspiration. I am not a professional artist but a serious amateur and have heard and read the "painting from photos" criticism from all directions and have not allowed it to influence me as I have taken most of the photos that I have used as subject matter and feel that photography in it's self is a valid art form. Keep up the good work.
I so much appreciate that you addressed the validity of using a photo reference. When you really think about it, aren't we most often creating from a reference photo per se by way of having models sit or painting in plein air? I find it disheartening that an artist would, maybe not intentionally, discourage another. After all, don't we all share the common appreciation for and desire to create art? We should encourage each other to keep forging ahead and improving a little each day. I appreciate this underlying message conveyed in your Sketch Endeavor and I thank you for your transparency in sharing your experiences and your knowledge to help all of us grow in our skill level.
Most definitely one can. I began receiving awards when very young in school by working from photos. I've been able to, time wise, of different amounts. Especially fond of your work on horses. 💗
oh yes, there are those that love the pure taste of vinegar but to refine and use all means and tools available and mostly because you can, create a fine glass of wine.
My confidence has improved 10x after doing a study last week trying to copy a thumbnail of a tawny eagle. I limited myself to not zooming in on the photo reference and I actually really enjoyed the challenge and felt like I learned so much in half the time verse trying to make things up in my head.
My advice for picture references is: 1. Don't listen to those people 2. Remember that camera distortion is a thing 3. Get good at photography and photoshop and give yourself the best reference. 4. Don't abandon model painting, but I'm sure Caravaggio preferred the camera obscura to holding models at dagger point! Yes, he really did that!
I’m with you 100% on the photography issue! I try to ignore Art Bullies like that. We all have our own path. Great SE, good info. I’m starting to realize how little I know about drawing techniques as I watch you work. Also, don’t worry about running out of room for improvement. I’m a retiree and still have lots to learn. Keeps life interesting!
I've been separated from my pencil for over 16 years. If anything or anyone is going to get me back to drawing, is you ANDREW TISCHLER. I've spent a little fortune on pencils, sketch books, easel, canvases and paints. Thank you for encouragement. Awesome work.
Yes. Photography in art(painting), has alway been well established artist tool, from Vermeer to the 19th century masters and to say otherwise only try’s to undermine the technical mastery that they achieved. Once again your drawings are amazing, I’m looking forward to seeing how far you are able to push the drawing medium over the 10,000 hours.
I agree with you 100%. I have heard this stupid opinion so many times I no longer tolerate it. I have been accused of "cheating" if I use photo references, to which my response is always "There's no such thing as "cheating" in art : there are only more ways than one of skinning a cat!" Of course, I know that you can go in for out and out plagiarism, but I'm not talking about that - it's a different ballgame altogether. I also use tracing in some instances. I use it to position drawings and to fix major features. This technique is also aimed at as "cheating" and it drives me mad!
Thank you so much, Andrew, for making a video about this topic, I could never understand the whole negativity about using photos as references, the greatest things about photos, that they are here, in front of you, whether it's a desert, tropical island or a snowy mountains, you just can't be everywhere to draw it from life. And the way we see and the way modern cameras capture the image (sometimes photos are even better, because vision gets blurry, and you just can't see certain things), there isn't much difference in the way how our brain reacts on that images, we can't see the objects 3 dimensional, from life or from photo, no matter, we see a 2 dimensional image, always, we understand that the object is 3 dimensional, but we can't actually see it this way, this how our eyes work, many people don't understand this, but there isn't that much a difference. And also, it was always discouraging me from studying anatomy or generally, drawing, because i always felt ashamed of myself, as the result, i wasn't getting better, because i was doing nothing for this, so thank you again, for lighting this fire of inspiration one more time)
Well done Andrew, sending you prayers and praise. My grandson and I love watching your videos together. You have really helped my art grow to new levels. Thank you for inspiring us.
I have been drawing and painting for many years on and off, all of my paintings have been from Photos i have taken myself. I have had criticisms about this, but this is the best way for me to capture a moment and to replicate it with paint or pencil with my best results. many people use grids, i don't have a problem with this either if it helps the individual to create what they like, I have a lot of respect for portrait artists, even some of those use photos for reference when the person is sat in front of them .
I have been thoroughly enjoying your videos for the last few months as I am a student of art. I also enjoy that you are a student of Dr. John Demartini! I am also a student of his. I have been to several of his classes including the breakthrough experience, prophecy 1, Master planning for Life as well as a certified Values Facilitator. I was super stoked to learn that you were the one who painted his vision that hangs in his office today! Thank you for all of the content that you are putting out there!
A lovely drawing Andrew and uniquely yours. As an art Teacher, there is nothing better when I see students really allowing themselves to develop their observational skills and practical skills whether using photos or direct observation and sometimes a combination of both as time is always a factor. As creative people it is in our DNA to break the rules and develop one's craft I can provide foundational skills and techniques but then allow the students to explore their own art making. Thanks for being an inspiration to many and loving your art. Respect Brother.
Loved hearing you read that vitriol as those amazing horses materialized. I’m sketching daily and every single day, I am improving my speed and technique. I can’t thank you enough. Thank you for teaching us as you sketch and sharing other tips and techniques of other artists.
Just love your work and your determination, beautiful blending and results. I cannot wait inbetween your videos and am so excited when I see a new one come up.
Your work is totally awesome. I love how you share your thoughts on how you create your beautiful artwork. Much love and respect from the UK. 🇬🇧❤️🇬🇧❤️🇬🇧
When I see a cop dealing with a careless driver, I want to shout "Get 'em, officer ... throw the book at 'em". In a similar vein, thank you for your comments here on the critics who berate using photographic reference material in art. Your results clearly illustrate that engaging in and perfecting these techniques improves us as artists. Early in my career as a zoologist, I spent many hours sketching fine detail to document animals I worked with. Today I use a camera to document things that interest me and I use my photographs to help me sketch because I enjoy it; though today, I'm not so slavish about detail .. and yes, these drawing sessions become addictive. Indeed, your tutorials are inspiring. Over 250 comments in a couple of days, not bad ... not bad at all. Go get 'em!
Hello sir, I am small artist from India.. I am learning so much from your videos, I am amazed by your dedication and patience.. One day I will also became artist like you are.. I have watched your videos several times and each time I get inspiration to become better and better to push myself beyond limits.. U are an true artist and a true role model , I would keep following you...
Just ignore them. Some of the greatest artists in the world used mirrors, lenses, camera obscura, gridding and photographs. They are simply tools to create art just as pigment, brushes, paper, canvas etc. You will find 'purists' in all avenues of creativity so let them get on with it and carry on your path.
@@canalcerrado2433 The ubiquity of the Lorrain mirror past the 1700s and the countless illustrations of people using grids in the Renaissance would disagree with you. Leonardo himself recommended the artist trace on a piece of glass to see how much information was in a contour. Your puritanical view isn't supported by the historical record.
I can't thank you enough Andrew! Even I have been hearing the same thing from many people that I immitate and that is not art! I found those statements and criticisms very depressing and started thinking that I am not an artist.Your videos are always full of motivations and encouragements for many like me. Thank you so much. From now onwards I won't give my ears to all those bullshits :-)
Using picture reference to practice has thought me a lot! It really is like note taking. Were always told that taking notes is the best way to retain information. Artist that use pictures are simply using marks instead of words. Like a lot of things (especially on the internet) the best motto is usually 'You do you, I'll do me'. Great episode!
Thank you so much, Andrew, for these videos! I always appreciate your insights and for sharing your knowledge. I also appreciate how you stand up for art and for others - such as how you addressed the negative opinions people have in regards to using photographic references. You have made such a great and informed argument on this topic, and I think that is key! Everyone, as artists, should strive to be well-informed about any given method or material that they use - to find out the pros and cons and weigh what works best for them. I'm always much more inspired to paint or draw when I watch your videos! Thanks again!
I totally agree you can. Technology is here to help, a tablet gives you the ability to zoom in a detail, and so on. Photoshop helps you tremendously in your composition before you start a painting, right? The Grand Masters made use of every device they had back then to aim their process, a photograph was just not available yet. And I agree with you Andrew, those people talking crap about reference photos, probably have a bunch of them in their studios. Anyway, I love these discussions, it is always positive. By the way, your drawings are getting so amazing! Thanks for another great one.
I would say there is one advantageous aspect about using photographs or camera obsura, etc: and that is aiding the sometimes dreadfully difficult task of translating what we see in three dimensions (the real world) into a two dimensional object. A photo captures a moment, which is easier for us to analyze: just exactly how a horse looks in a mid-stride, how a wave tears itself apart on a rocky beach... But in the end, I find those photos helps me capture the moments also in my mind's eye, sort of learning how to truly see an object as it should appear on the paper or canvas. No way anything that helps develop how we learn to see can be a bad thing or a "cheat". It is simply another tool. Love the videos!
Thank you Andrew, I really really enjoy your videos. I agree with you some time I draw free hand, some time I used grid and some time I copy, who care. I have nothing to prove to no one except me. Some times I keep a drawing and many time I discarded it, some time I just doodling to improve my strokes, shades and values. I just keep going and it make me feel good. Thanks again. Cheers
I relate the ‘copying’ idea to other art forms. In dance or piano the teacher says “do what I do.” We don’t expect the beginner ballerina to just express, they start with repeating the steps. Later they express and interpret the choreography. Same with piano. Kids start with the classic works and practice other composers. They are not expected to made their own music until later. Visual art is so misunderstood. I agree with you that people say copying has no value are as you say making themselves sound fancy.
When I was a young illustrator over 20 years ago 🙄,
the thing that enabled me
to draw in later years without using photographic references
WAS my use of photographic references.
Particularly of the human figure.
Training with photos taught me to push it further to make an image come to life. It also taught me to draw more economically, making every stroke count.
It improved my sketching,
taught me to say more
with less. Or to say only what you wish to say with your drawing.
That in turn improved my storytelling.
An illustrator HAS to be able to sketch from his imagination, and to do it quickly. Training with photos is the fastest way to access and familiarise ourselves with that visual information.
An illustrator's subject matter isn't always available in front of him.
They often aren't even real. Where am I going to find a fantasy creature to pose for me ? The heft and textures on such a creature's put together from photographic refs of
real animals.
So you HAVE to
LEARN TO USE photo refs
for fantasy realism.
It's not even an issue to
an illustrator.
Drawing skills is just one component of the many skills required to be an illustrator.
Draw, sketch,
draw, sketch,
draw, sketch.
Draw everything.
Copy everything.
Expand that visual
library in you.
Draw from life. ✔️
Draw from photos.✔️
Draw from imagination.✔️
Train in all three.
Matters not if you are
an illustrator or in the
fine arts...
Your tools can liberate you,
if you're careful to not turn them into crutches.
In responce to your 'rant' .... Amen. Your heart, soul, humanity and intelligence is an inspiration. Your talent helps push me as an artist beyond my own limitations and helps make those limitations nothing more than challenges. From the bottom of my heart Andrew... Thank You!
The Louvre in Paris used to be full of art students with their easels copying the old masters to learn from them. It was a thing you had to do in so many European art schools, first copy the masters before you could create work of your own. No difference from using reference photos.
The important thing is to draw and paint. And with your encouragement Andrew, that is what many people are doing :)
Exactly. The *only* exceptions are basically technical, like lens distortion and color. (You can't accurately copy a master painting from photo because the glazes are almost impossible to capture from photo.)
BUT. Starting somewhere is better than never starting.
This is mostly misguided. Sure reference photos will always have a big place. But copying from one flat photo to another is not nearly the same superpower as observing stereoscopically and flattening down to a picture plane. Even more power comes in when you can start with a photo for information and ideas from and rotate the info in mental space for your compositional or conceptual purpose. If you can take your own photos you can work around your cognitive drawing limitations. New advancements better maniquinns and posers are surrogates and time savers. But this video isn't advocating that. The apt critique has always been why not just hang the photo on the wall and unless you use more than one photo you are maybe approximately plagiarizing. We all start somewhere though and copying from a photo will be great rendering practice and freeing for those of us who are frustrated by our cognitive drawing limitations. The mind that understands what it is sketching makes a line that is drastically observable different than one without the mental skills. Sometimes that lack of draftsmanship can be buried under rendering and sometimes it can't.
EXACTLY, AND WELL SAID. TOTALLY AGREE! EVERYTHING ANDREW SAYS IS CORRECT
True
After 10,000 hours I will be 74 years old. I am at a crossroads in my life at this time. I am up for this challenge! Starting now! Thank you.
In major portraiture competitions such as the Lester Prize (formerly Black Swan in Western Australia) and Archibald, it is within their entry documentation that even though a person must state that they have sat for the artist on at least one occasion, photographic reference is not only allowed but required given its impossible to expect the subject to sit for 100 plus hours in some of the works that are being created.
Heck yes - they even demonstrated in the ABC special 'The Archibald' that the in person sitting doesn't need to be more than a napkin sketch. The photos are the visual information for the work.
great work, Andrew, all he needs is a Cossack or a Tartar warrior on his back!
😁
Sooo many great, professional, successful artists out there use photos as reference in one way or another..nothing "wrong" with it. Just another tool to help the artist to create.
What else we can use instead? Do they mean lice objects?
I could never afford art classes, and if it were not for my many hours of copying pictures and someone else's sketches, I would never have continued with my art hobby. Only through copying other artists did I learn, bit by bit, how to put things together....and progress on to oil painting. Your tutorials are inspiring.....thank you for reminding me to get my sketching off the back-burner and back into practice.
Im amused to hear how similar our situations are. Although i didn't jump to oils yet. But my canvases are readyy
I been drawing portraits from photo references for over 30 plus years and love your comments on this I feel it's always challenged me to be a better portrait artist over many years and still feel I have so much more to learn so to you my friend thank you for bringing this to light to any and all that may see this I absolutely love your ideas and comments towards bettering yourself and not worry what others might think as long as I am happy with what I am doing that's what matters every single day is a growing process in our journey thanks again
Thanks for this one, Andrew! I've heard this time and time again and it irks me, too. Even in my Facebook group, I continue explaining this, and the comment just keeps popping up, especially among young artists and beginners. They seem to believe that drawing or painting from the imagination implies a higher level of achievement than using references.
However, by having improved my own skills for many years using reference photos, as well as by drawing/painting from direct observation, I can very easily tell that these people's works have errors in perspective, shading and proportion.
Many of my favorite artists used photographic references too, like Norman Rockwell and Toulouse-Lautrec.
Now-a-days, I create most of my artwork using some kind of reference to jump off from (a photo, collage I've created, or a subject I have in front of me). I use my references as a kind of loose inspiration, as well as to get clues on lights and shadows, and details that I may not have remembered if I didn't have them (I'm not a machine and my brain can only hold so much information in it). :D
I consider myself primarily a representational artist, but I do enjoy bringing a level of expression to my pieces, manipulating color and leaving brushstrokes behind. I use my artistic license to add, subtract to the picture or move things around if need be. I can do this because composition and exploration were drilled into my head in art school.
In my opinion, it's important to learn to SEE and understand realism (color, value, perspective, how to recreate proportion freehand, etc.) BEFORE getting into more stylized artwork, at least when we're actually trying to improve our drawing or painting.
There is a time and a place for drawing from our imagination, but in order to improve our observational skills and hand-eye coordination, it's essential to work from references when we're starting out. Later on, if one wishes to become more abstract and expressive, it's perfectly fine to go down that route.
What's more, if one decides to create more stylized work, it'll be even more effective because the person started by studying realism. I've found this to be the case for many character designers out there.
Yes, of course it is important to make original art. I would never use another artist's painting or illustration to get directly inspired by it. THAT, in my opinion, is copying.
There are nuances that we can use as artists to make a piece our own, both when we're looking to arrive at high levels of abstraction and when we're going for the highest levels of realism.
To finish up, you are totally correct. There are so many different ways to go about the creative process. No one way is right or wrong. It depends on the particular artist's current level and end-goals.
Any person that says that there is only one way to go about doing things, or that says one way is right while the other is wrong, is just ignorant. Nothing is black and white.
Thanks again and have a fantastic day!
Brilliant Comment! I wholeheartedly agree!
I have never seen a better drawing in my entire life, and I am near 60 years old, believe me! Wow, you have pure talent, needless to say. That horse is so well done, just the drawing is so awesome!
Honing a skill is unique to the artist, by whatever means it takes ....cameras and photographs are tools of artistry to be used to enhance creativity.....well done Andrew for saying it’s allowed!
Great video, Andrew. I think just as we exercise our bodies, we must also exercise our minds and keep building discipline and conviction. This sketchendeavour journey has been great for that, and it's constantly making me silence that voice that keeps trying to compare myself with others and to simply do it for my own sake.
P.S Thanks for the shout out!
Your wisdom is spot on in everything you've said. These purists lack the humble spirit of learning therefore they scorn it. Who needs their boast of absolute perception! It's not productive. Using any reference (and photograph is one) to teach oneself to improve is totally valid and worthy. You're a living example of it.
Brilliant video!... We don't all have the luxury to be able to draw from life so photographs are a fantastic way to learn and be creative.
I estimate that I had almost 3000 hours of drawing experience by the time I graduated high school. I don't for one second feel that I was even "Good" at drawing by that time. I was very knowledgable about the pencils, the ink, but had no clue of how to render, model, or a face, a hand, or the body. I needed to "see" how to "SEE" the subject. Mastering a medium is nothing without learning how to SEE, and that is a huge part of drawing. Kudos to your pursuit of being a real Master, I know you understand what it truly is.
Thank you for sharing these inspiring and wonderful videos. Sharing our time is as much a Blessing as sharing our Bread..
You are such an inspiration to me. Thank God I am in the space where I really do not give a darn what others think of how I need to learn. I have always found that those who criticize have the problem.
I must admit that I had a few chuckles and love your narrative. Many Thanks.
Its a pleasure to hear you explain things .....I would love to see you do an underwater paintings. And you are right when you say we should paint what ever we like, so why not any kind of photos.... not every one can visit The Taj Mahal but if someone whats to do a painting of it nothing should stop them.
Excellent drawing and advice. What a sheen on that horse’s coat, you must have brushed it for ages!😃
Wonderful video and so well said! Working from photographs can be super valuable in developing your skills.
Hi Andrew
Once again I congratulate you on the excellent video. I have been with you for a long time and I would like to say that I admire you a lot, I admire your paintings and drawings, I admire you as an artist and above all I admire the person you are. I say this because I see in you a healthy and encouraging concern in wanting to teach everything you know to others. Besides being a great artist you are also a great teacher, I LEARNED A LOT FROM YOU, I want you to know that, and I'm sure many others have learned it too. Your videos encourage us to paint and draw. Sometimes I am in my little studio and I feel discouraged to paint, so I watch one of his videos and it instantly cheers me up. Yes, you motivate us to always want to be better, because you are like that, always looking for challenges, that's very good. In addition, the care taken in preparing the videos is remarkable, everything is very well shot in high definition, there are footage with drones in plein air, scenes at various angles in the studio. Everything is very well done so that we can enjoy your art and learning to the best of our ability. I always look forward to your videos. And you always have new and surprising ideas like Sketchendeavor. Wow, that was awesome! I still could not surrender to the challenge, because I work eight hours a day in a company here in Brazil, I am twelve hours away from home daily. I indulge in art only on the weekends, but that is changing and thanks to you. I promise I will soon post my daily drawings on Sketchendeavor.
For all this my friend, thank you very much and do not care about negative comments, they are nothing compared to the grandeur of everything you have created for us.
So let's go ahead, a lot of art awaits us, and as I said, I look forward to the next video.
(and forgive my English, I had to use Google translate)
Regards,
Thank you so much Claudio! I really appreciate your kind words. It's people like you, who keep me going and striving to do better with my videos. I am glad you find them inspiring and encouraging! Keep on going brother, remember with Sketchendeavour, it's not the amount of time that's important, its the HABIT! Start with 10 minutes a day (we all have that!) Good luck mate!
I want to thank photographers who are generous enough to share their images with the world. I use reference photos all the time, and I so appreciate the dedication of some who brave the elements, lug gear to remote areas at all hours of the day and night to capture amazing moments so I don't have to. Well done shutterbugs!
Your videos do so much not just to improve my drawing and painting, but also my mental health.
This video was especially amazing because I was debating the fact if hyperrealistic art is truly art. I feel that this ties into the topics you were talking about with the photographic references.
I try and draw everyday...completely agree with you! Great job on this video and opinion!
Absolutely, I struggle with coming up with ideas without having to look stuff up but I have to careful not to copy. So I just Google animals and birds and all that stuff and it had definitely helped me improve my painting and drawing skills
Wow I love your work Andrew, your passion and your drive, this was another amazing sketch, tell Marline she has beautiful features
So glad to hear you say this. The one big discouragement I received as a young teenage artist was that copying from photographs was "cheating" and that you had to be able to draw to this level "from your imagination" or you weren't an artist. What happens when you hear this? You just give up.
Mastery is Understanding. I like that. Mastery is also Wisdom and Effortless Accomplishment. Masters work smart and not always hard. It is about allowing Art to be expressed through you. Great video, brilliant drawing. Loved the insight. Thank you.
I’m sure masters didn’t think of themselves as masters at the time! Just recognised they were gifted in their field and wanted to give their best, like you.
You are so inspirational! If I'm stuck I always turn to your youtube posts. I love your work. :)
Thank you Andrew. What a pleasure it is watching you draw. You have a great gift of being able to draw so accurately without using the erasure too much.
Thanks Andrew. Not only did you inspire me to draw for 1 hour every day (with a few exceptions, and drawing with pastels which I already do better), but I heard from you about Molly Bloom. The film is really great, and she proved to be a very brave, and ultimately wise woman. In addition, the film shows a bit of glamor, which is not as dazzling as it seems, and shows how dangerous it can be.
This is amazing. You are such an inspiration to all of us. Please accept endless gratitude.
Thank you Andrew for sharing your journey in pursuing you drawing skills. This is exactly what I have been trying to achieve on my own but finding it difficult without a framework to plan my practice on...I will be following you and I am looking forward to this journey into my personal development. So good to be not doing it alone.
Yah, I’ve actually heard that too. “ don’t copy from photos” ! I stop drawing for awhile.( hmm) I realize how much my art benefits from it. Good point! Glad you brought that up thanks! Keep drawing :) !
I am always inspired by your podcast. My goals are not as high as yours because I just paint for pleasure and my age prohibits me from huge aspirations. But you give me the drive to improve on things a little bit of a time. I am a huge fan. Thank you for sharing!
Amen to your comments Andrew. It is so sad that a person can squash the dreams of so many by their off comments on how someone should think, work and use their talents. Decades ago I tried to go into an art gallery and show my work...the gentleman asked me what I specialized in. I told him I didn't, I painted and did what I felt or what someone wanted me to do for them. Needless to say he chewed me out so bad that I didn't pick up a brush for 4 years. He got into my head and made me feel that I was not cutout to be an artist or was good enough to pursue it....well shame on these thinkers and shame on me for allowing him or anyone to get into my head and make me feel I should quit. None of us should allow ANYONE to do this to us! We ARE artists and how we do it is our decision and our journey not theirs. The words you speak and all the time and endeavor you put in is valued by myself and I am sure so many others who follow you. Thank you for all that you do and for not holding back on your feelings on how you feel about these types of comments, it gives all of us hope that we can and will be great artists in our time with time and dedication on our part.
Yes! I'm glad to hear your position now, despite the negativity in the beginning. People have no idea about the horrible effect of their words. But hey, you're on the right path now, and you'll know crap when you hear it again!
these critics you get are actually manifestations of failure, jealousy and negative personality.
As a digital marketing expert, we hear these from artists who failed in their careers! it is a very difficult task to be an artist and youtuber at the same time.
You are a successful artist in many ways! Look at this you have a large subscribers who enjoy your content.
Great work 👏
Thank you so deep for sharing so much Andrew. You are a master.
I love how you are clearly one of the best artists alive and yet you stand up to this nonsense pretentious side of the "art world". Good to heatr such things about drawing from photo etc. and your opinions on abstract art on your podcasts are also very refreshing. Love the content mate keep it coming!
Can't express how much I enjoy your videos.Without a doubt one of the best art related channels on RUclips.
Hi Andrew, would it be possible if you can do a video on your sketching paraphernalia? i.e different types of pencils: at what stage to use them, what are they used for etc, your fans and i would very much appreciate it :)..oh and great vid!
Hello! I totally agree with you. Photography is a tool like any other. Having such prejudices in your head is limiting our imagination and the worst way to make our work difficult and even painful.
Thank you Andrew for sharing your knowledge and understanding of you drive to be as good as you can be. Your father really did an awesome job of raising a son that has a focus of excellence!!! God Bless.
Andrew, you have no idea how much I appreciate these videos! Thank you so much. It's very rare to find an artist as superbly talented as you are, who's also as thoughtful, generous, and encouraging. You should be as proud of these videos as you must be of your exquisite work 👌🏽
Thank you so much for your videos on sketching... they are really great!!
I liked what Cesar Santos said about working from photographs - that he's working from life regardless - HIS LIFE! Thanks again for another inspiring video Andrew, always interesting to hear your thoughts too.
Cesar is the MAN! Thanks for the comment. I agree. :)
Brilliant. Following all progress and engaging myself in the process of art by copying photographic references. Learning a lot and pushing myself for sure. I am even starting to consider myself an artist as a result. Screw the 'experts'.
‘ You never stop learning ‘ so true.
I’m with you Andrew, you still have to use your own eyes, your own hands your own interpretation of a reference, we all have our own style, put the same photo reference in front of 100 artists and they all will be different. The reference doesn’t matter if it’s from life we still try to imitate, from reference the same. We are after likeness not a copy! I will never accept that statement from anyone. Great sketching Andrew!
I draw mostly for the idea of mastery, albeit I'm still early in my adventure and working out on checking off proficient-to-advanced skill in all fundamentals. There's nothing I really *want* to draw, no story to tell. Nothing but pure, raw enjoyment of this craft. And if I ever want to draw something, then that'll come by itself.
So this speaks to my interest very much. And I appreciate you laying a form of path for others to look upon and see, 'hey, you can really walk here afterall. It's not a dead end.'. It made me rethink how I want to tackle my improvements and setting up more of a lifestyle as opposed to a schedule of learning and enjoying art. To dare put time into the same thing over and over, with slight improvements and variations each time adding up rapidly. It's a joy!
I don't really use accounts for youtube, I just check in on channels I like now and then. But I feel I want to give you the support I can for this. So I did like and I did subscribe. I think you're onto something very worthwhile and I feel happy to encourage you to keep at it. :)
Thank you, Andrew! I used to think the same thing, years ago. Then I saw ASTONISHING paintings by the American master of western art, Martin Grelle. I befriended him and took workshops from him. He told me point-blank, "your work will only be as strong as the quality of your reference images." He advised me to take photos constantly, hire models, shoot a thousand photos a day at photoshoots, and draw, draw, draw--exactly what you're saying.
Since then, I've taken his advice, and have invested thousands of dollars over the years to hire models, horse wranglers, historical prop masters, and history advisors. Sure enough, my work has gotten so much stronger. And best of all, this approach has actually improved my creativity, too.
Afterthought: there are drawbacks that people should be aware of, too. For example, camera foreshortening has fooled me into painting some really bizarre anatomy, when I was first started and not used to this. Being very tall, I also forgot to account for heigh when taking reference photos, resulting in a downward POV and skewed my subjects. I never noticed until I saw the images on screen, and have since learned to adjust. Photos can flatten shadows and over-enhance the saturation of backgrounds, so we need to watch out for that.
I used to work for a major animation studio, and had to draw not only characters, but realistic scenery, buildings, vehicles, everything, and from any angle, and used reams of paper for reference photographs. You just can't imagine accurately things that you have never seen in different angles, like the horseperson mentioning the horses' conformation. Photographs are essential as a learning tool; as many as you can. If you're not interested in realism then it doesn't matter, just go for whatever, but no sense in knocking someone else's method of working, I say. If you just flat-out copy someone's photo, sell it and don't give them credit for it, then there's a problem. Your work speaks for itself, Andrew.
Thank you Andrew, you are such and inspiration. I am not a professional artist but a serious amateur and have heard and read the "painting from photos" criticism from all directions and have not allowed it to influence me as I have taken most of the photos that I have used as subject matter and feel that photography in it's self is a valid art form. Keep up the good work.
I so much appreciate that you addressed the validity of using a photo reference. When you really think about it, aren't we most often creating from a reference photo per se by way of having models sit or painting in plein air? I find it disheartening that an artist would, maybe not intentionally, discourage another. After all, don't we all share the common appreciation for and desire to create art? We should encourage each other to keep forging ahead and improving a little each day. I appreciate this underlying message conveyed in your Sketch Endeavor and I thank you for your transparency in sharing your experiences and your knowledge to help all of us grow in our skill level.
Most definitely one can. I began receiving awards when very young in school by working from photos. I've been able to, time wise, of different amounts. Especially fond of your work on horses. 💗
oh yes, there are those that love the pure taste of vinegar but to refine and use all means and tools available and mostly because you can, create a fine glass of wine.
You’re absolutely right about photographic references
My confidence has improved 10x after doing a study last week trying to copy a thumbnail of a tawny eagle. I limited myself to not zooming in on the photo reference and I actually really enjoyed the challenge and felt like I learned so much in half the time verse trying to make things up in my head.
Wonderful topic to discuss!
I just really love when people feel something in a finished piece by me and others
My advice for picture references is:
1. Don't listen to those people
2. Remember that camera distortion is a thing
3. Get good at photography and photoshop and give yourself the best reference.
4. Don't abandon model painting, but I'm sure Caravaggio preferred the camera obscura to holding models at dagger point! Yes, he really did that!
Gosh , that horse is fantastic !
I dont know how to describe my feelings thank you andrew you saved my art life.
You are truly a great inspiration to us struggling artists. Your dedication and sheer persistence puts you on the highest level.
I’m with you 100% on the photography issue! I try to ignore Art Bullies like that. We all have our own path. Great SE, good info. I’m starting to realize how little I know about drawing techniques as I watch you work. Also, don’t worry about running out of room for improvement. I’m a retiree and still have lots to learn. Keeps life interesting!
I've been separated from my pencil for over 16 years. If anything or anyone is going to get me back to drawing, is you ANDREW TISCHLER. I've spent a little fortune on pencils, sketch books, easel, canvases and paints. Thank you for encouragement. Awesome work.
Thank you Andrew for Sketchendeavour , and how you are teaching the importance of continuing to grow as an artist in the area of drawing.
Yes. Photography in art(painting), has alway been well established artist tool, from Vermeer to the 19th century masters and to say otherwise only try’s to undermine the technical mastery that they achieved.
Once again your drawings are amazing, I’m looking forward to seeing how far you are able to push the drawing medium over the 10,000 hours.
I agree with you 100%. I have heard this stupid opinion so many times I no longer tolerate it. I have been accused of "cheating" if I use photo references, to which my response is always "There's no such thing as "cheating" in art : there are only more ways than one of skinning a cat!" Of course, I know that you can go in for out and out plagiarism, but I'm not talking about that - it's a different ballgame altogether. I also use tracing in some instances. I use it to position drawings and to fix major features. This technique is also aimed at as "cheating" and it drives me mad!
I use tracing too Hilary!
It’s just a
‘’smart tool” to help you keep proportions right.
And you’re still drawing, anyway!
Thank you so much, Andrew, for making a video about this topic, I could never understand the whole negativity about using photos as references, the greatest things about photos, that they are here, in front of you, whether it's a desert, tropical island or a snowy mountains, you just can't be everywhere to draw it from life. And the way we see and the way modern cameras capture the image (sometimes photos are even better, because vision gets blurry, and you just can't see certain things), there isn't much difference in the way how our brain reacts on that images, we can't see the objects 3 dimensional, from life or from photo, no matter, we see a 2 dimensional image, always, we understand that the object is 3 dimensional, but we can't actually see it this way, this how our eyes work, many people don't understand this, but there isn't that much a difference. And also, it was always discouraging me from studying anatomy or generally, drawing, because i always felt ashamed of myself, as the result, i wasn't getting better, because i was doing nothing for this, so thank you again, for lighting this fire of inspiration one more time)
How you draw without ever erasing is so amazing to me. I can never draw without erasing and ways ruin my drawing by doing too much.
Well done Andrew, sending you prayers and praise. My grandson and I love watching your videos together. You have really helped my art grow to new levels. Thank you for inspiring us.
you are the best art channel here in youtube
Loveeee what you said today!
I have been drawing and painting for many years on and off, all of my paintings have been from Photos i have taken myself. I have had criticisms about this, but this is the best way for me to capture a moment and to replicate it with paint or pencil with my best results. many people use grids, i don't have a problem with this either if it helps the individual to create what they like, I have a lot of respect for portrait artists, even some of those use photos for reference when the person is sat in front of them .
I have been thoroughly enjoying your videos for the last few months as I am a student of art. I also enjoy that you are a student of Dr. John Demartini! I am also a student of his. I have been to several of his classes including the breakthrough experience, prophecy 1, Master planning for Life as well as a certified Values Facilitator. I was super stoked to learn that you were the one who painted his vision that hangs in his office today! Thank you for all of the content that you are putting out there!
A lovely drawing Andrew and uniquely yours. As an art Teacher, there is nothing better when I see students really allowing themselves to develop their observational skills and practical skills whether using photos or direct observation and sometimes a combination of both as time is always a factor. As creative people it is in our DNA to break the rules and develop one's craft I can provide foundational skills and techniques but then allow the students to explore their own art making. Thanks for being an inspiration to many and loving your art. Respect Brother.
Loved hearing you read that vitriol as those amazing horses materialized. I’m sketching daily and every single day, I am improving my speed and technique. I can’t thank you enough. Thank you for teaching us as you sketch and sharing other tips and techniques of other artists.
Just love your work and your determination, beautiful blending and results. I cannot wait inbetween your videos and am so excited when I see a new one come up.
More on the way!
amazing artist i like your work very much i fallow you in the last 2 year you are one of the greatest artist in the globe.
Beautiful! Great job! Thank you.
Your work is totally awesome. I love how you share your thoughts on how you create your beautiful artwork. Much love and respect from the UK. 🇬🇧❤️🇬🇧❤️🇬🇧
When I see a cop dealing with a careless driver, I want to shout "Get 'em, officer ... throw the book at 'em". In a similar vein, thank you for your comments here on the critics who berate using photographic reference material in art. Your results clearly illustrate that engaging in and perfecting these techniques improves us as artists. Early in my career as a zoologist, I spent many hours sketching fine detail to document animals I worked with. Today I use a camera to document things that interest me and I use my photographs to help me sketch because I enjoy it; though today, I'm not so slavish about detail .. and yes, these drawing sessions become addictive. Indeed, your tutorials are inspiring. Over 250 comments in a couple of days, not bad ... not bad at all. Go get 'em!
an other great episode again Andrew, Thanks good luck & keep it up
Hello sir, I am small artist from India.. I am learning so much from your videos, I am amazed by your dedication and patience.. One day I will also became artist like you are.. I have watched your videos several times and each time I get inspiration to become better and better to push myself beyond limits.. U are an true artist and a true role model , I would keep following you...
Just ignore them.
Some of the greatest artists in the world used mirrors, lenses, camera obscura, gridding and photographs.
They are simply tools to create art just as pigment, brushes, paper, canvas etc.
You will find 'purists' in all avenues of creativity so let them get on with it and carry on your path.
Agreed. I dont feel ashamed for using a ruler anymore haha, its become a regular tool for me when sketching
Well said!
Bhodisatvas the greatest artists draw, they don’t need a crutch
I really don't understand why anyone cares about how a piece of art is created so long as it looks good in the end. What a bizarre thing to fixate on!
@@canalcerrado2433 The ubiquity of the Lorrain mirror past the 1700s and the countless illustrations of people using grids in the Renaissance would disagree with you. Leonardo himself recommended the artist trace on a piece of glass to see how much information was in a contour.
Your puritanical view isn't supported by the historical record.
Fantastic, I'm going back to watch the first two episodes as well as sign up on your website. Wonderful.
Thank you Andrew for your amazing tutorial and you most definitely are a “Master”!!
I love how you approach the veins and get them to pop. I am working on achieving details like that
Haha! Love the statement of this video. Hear hear! I'd be LOST without any photorefs in my life.
I can't thank you enough Andrew! Even I have been hearing the same thing from many people that I immitate and that is not art! I found those statements and criticisms very depressing and started thinking that I am not an artist.Your videos are always full of motivations and encouragements for many like me. Thank you so much. From now onwards I won't give my ears to all those bullshits :-)
Using picture reference to practice has thought me a lot! It really is like note taking. Were always told that taking notes is the best way to retain information. Artist that use pictures are simply using marks instead of words. Like a lot of things (especially on the internet) the best motto is usually 'You do you, I'll do me'. Great episode!
Hi Andrew! Wow. I understand so much more with each video. Thank you. Have you ever tried sketching a self-portrait?
Great. I salute you for this endeavour nice guy.stay blessed.
Thank you so much, Andrew, for these videos! I always appreciate your insights and for sharing your knowledge. I also appreciate how you stand up for art and for others - such as how you addressed the negative opinions people have in regards to using photographic references. You have made such a great and informed argument on this topic, and I think that is key! Everyone, as artists, should strive to be well-informed about any given method or material that they use - to find out the pros and cons and weigh what works best for them.
I'm always much more inspired to paint or draw when I watch your videos! Thanks again!
Cheers Amanda!
I totally agree you can.
Technology is here to help, a tablet gives you the ability to zoom in a detail, and so on.
Photoshop helps you tremendously in your composition before you start a painting, right?
The Grand Masters made use of every device they had back then to aim their process, a photograph was just not available yet.
And I agree with you Andrew, those people talking crap about reference photos, probably have a bunch of them in their studios.
Anyway, I love these discussions, it is always positive.
By the way, your drawings are getting so amazing!
Thanks for another great one.
I would say there is one advantageous aspect about using photographs or camera obsura, etc: and that is aiding the sometimes dreadfully difficult task of translating what we see in three dimensions (the real world) into a two dimensional object. A photo captures a moment, which is easier for us to analyze: just exactly how a horse looks in a mid-stride, how a wave tears itself apart on a rocky beach... But in the end, I find those photos helps me capture the moments also in my mind's eye, sort of learning how to truly see an object as it should appear on the paper or canvas. No way anything that helps develop how we learn to see can be a bad thing or a "cheat". It is simply another tool.
Love the videos!
Thank you Andrew, I really really enjoy your videos. I agree with you some time I draw free hand, some time I used grid and some time I copy, who care. I have nothing to prove to no one except me. Some times I keep a drawing and many time I discarded it, some time I just doodling to improve my strokes, shades and values. I just keep going and it make me feel good. Thanks again. Cheers
I relate the ‘copying’ idea to other art forms. In dance or piano the teacher says “do what I do.” We don’t expect the beginner ballerina to just express, they start with repeating the steps. Later they express and interpret the choreography. Same with piano. Kids start with the classic works and practice other composers. They are not expected to made their own music until later. Visual art is so misunderstood. I agree with you that people say copying has no value are as you say making themselves sound fancy.