Introduction: how do you become a successful artist?
Why is drawing important? What does it teach you in the long run? Why does it seem like drawing is the beginning step in becoming a successful artist? What does learning about art have to do with becoming a better person? Why is drawing important to beinga successful artist?
It is my goal to attempt to answer these questions by the end of the article. Whether you are just starting out, or a seasoned professional artist, it is important to know the base skills that drawing provides. Overall, drawing is important for several reasons, from cognitive and emotional reasons like self expression and to help release stress, to practical domains like improving hand-eye coordination and motor skills.
For a list of tools and mediums I recommend, check out my Favorite Art Supplies list.
If you are interested in learning more about basic drawing and painting skills, please check out my Art Advice page. If you are a beginner artist, I recommend 5 Easy Drawing Tips and How to Create an Artist Statement. These are great resources to becoming a successful artist.
Drawing is a form of Self expression
Drawing allows individuals to express themselves visually, providing an outlet for emotions, ideas, and experiences that may be difficult to convey through words alone. It’s a form of non-verbal communication that can be powerful and evocative. The article from Arts Academy in the Woods puts it perfectly:
“Art gives us a way to take a painful thought out of our heads and put it onto a page or into a drawing, painting, or performance. It thereby releases the emotions around that thought and gives it less power.”
Tension, 12″x10″ graphite and white pen on paper by Brianna Eisman
Drawing inspires creativity
Engaging in drawing stimulates creativity and imagination. It encourages you to think outside the box, explore new ideas, and experiment with different techniques and mediums. I first found a passion for art in school. Whenever I finished a test early, I would flip the page to the back, and doodle, sketch, and draw anything and everything I could imagine. Creativity is a skill, just like riding a bike or learning to code, you must practice being creative and using your imagination.
I believe that you truly become a successful artist when you make a mistake and have to think of a creative solution to fix it. This creative process teaches problem-solving skills, and I have found these skills help in many other areas of my life too.
Draw More, Sharpie and pen on paper by Brianna Eisman
Drawing improves observation
Drawing enhances observational skills as it requires a keen attention to detail, proportions, shapes, and spatial relationships. Performing blind drawing studies especially expedites this skill, and is key to becoming an experienced and successful artist.
Through practice, successful artists learn to perceive the world more deeply and accurately, honing their ability to notice subtleties and nuances in their surroundings, and in other people.
Emma Watson Portrait by Brianna EismanEucalyptus by Brianna Eisman
Drawing is a type of therapy
Drawing has therapeutic benefits and can promote relaxation, stress relief, and emotional healing. Many people, including myself, use art as a form of self-expression and introspection, finding solace and catharsis through the act of creating art. It’s also a sort of meditative process, especially one away from a digital screen.
Drawing is a Universal Language
Visual representations can transcend language barriers. Drawing was first used as a form of communication to pass down verbal stories through generations. The caves in Lascaux, France contain around 2000 Paleolithic cave paintings estimated to be 20,000 years old.
Great Black Bull
Hall of the Bulls
From art and design to science and engineering, drawing serves as a universal language that facilitates communication and understanding across cultures and disciplines.
Drawing helps develop motor skills
Drawing requires precise hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, which are crucial for overall development, particularly in children. Practicing art helps improve dexterity and control over hand movements, which can have positive effects on writing, typing, and other manual tasks.
This skill is key to accurately translating your intended subject. That’s why drawing is taught first in art school, before other techniques like painting or sculpture. Art builds on itself and the more you draw, the better you’ll paint or sculpt or print.
An easy way to practice these motor skills, especially with children, is to create your own birthday and holiday cards. I share my process and inspiration in the article How to Wish Someone Happy Birthday, from an Artist.
Draw your own birthday cards!
Drawing uses visual thinking
Creating art stimulates visual thinking, allowing individuals to organize and conceptualize ideas in a spatial manner. It encourages the brain to think in pictures, aiding in problem-solving, planning, and critical thinking across various domains. For example, my experience with writing in school started with writing artist statements. I used critical thinking to analyze what I was seeing in the painting, and what message the artist was trying to convey or communicate.
To be a successful artist, means you know how to communicate with your viewers. Whether you communicate through paint or sketches or an artist statement on the wall of the museum, bridging visual skills with written text is necessary.
Studies do show arts education improves academic performance. A study by Brian Kisida and Daniel H. Bowen analyzed “42 elementary and middle schools with over 10,000 third- through eighth-grade students.”
The study found “increases in arts educational experiences significantly reduce the proportion of students receiving disciplinary infractions,” “improve writing achievement” and “increase students’ compassion for others by… appreciation of art.”
Drawing encourages art appreciation
Engaging in the arts yourself, fosters an appreciation for artwork and the creative process, and helps you become a more successful artist. By creating your own artwork, you develop insight into the techniques, styles, and meanings behind other works of art, leading to a deeper understanding and enjoyment of visual culture. For example, once you learn color theory, you start to notice it everywhere; from football teams to soda brands.
To be a successful artist, you need to appreciate the arts. You can do this by learning about and analyzing artwork, attending museums, supporting local artists, arts markets and galleries. If you are interested in learning more about art history and art styles, I suggest you take this quick quiz I made!
Figure 2, 18″x24″ soft pastels on canvas by Brianna Eisman
Reading about art helps too. Searching for this article and learning about the creative process promotes appreciation of the arts. You are becoming a more successful artist simply by supporting my art journey, and inspiring me to continue to share my knowledge and passion for art.
Conclusion
Think of drawing as ‘step 1’ to becoming a more successful artist. Overall, drawing is a versatile and valuable skill that offers numerous cognitive, emotional, and practical benefits. It enriches the lives of artists and contributes to their personal growth and development.
Have you noticed how buildings don’t look as ornate and decorated as they used to? Churches are a great example of this architectural change to a more minimalist, sleek style. Gothic churches began construction in the early 12th century. The cathedral below in Germany started construction in the year 1248. How has architecture changed almost 1000 years later? Why does minimalist architecture today have comments that it’s “ugly” or “bland?” Why has new public architecture become less artistic?
Cologne Cathedral, Germany
The Virgin Mary Syriac Church, Turkey
Over the years, there has been a shift from elaborate and ornate structures towards a more minimalist architecture and sleek style. In this article, we’re going to explore why architecture has taken this smooth turn, how it all started, and what it means for the places we live and hang out.
This transformation reflects a broader societal shift towards simplicity, functionality, and efficiency. This article explores factors influencing this change, the rise of minimalist architecture, and its impact on our environment.
From Ornate to Understated: A CHANGE IN Perspective
Architecture is such a cool type of art. Gothic cathedrals of the medieval era and Baroque palaces of the Renaissance exemplify visually stunning feats of engineering. They show off their embellished style with elegance and grandeur. Architects sought to create beautiful structures that reflected the cultural and societal values of their time, environment, and location.
Leuven Town Hall (1448-1469) Belgium, One Of The Best-Known Gothic Town Halls Worldwide & It Took Three Architects And Thirty Years To Build It
The Iconic San Francisco Cliff House Before It Was Destroyed In A 1907 Fire
Castillo De Colomares, Spain
Les Espaces D’abraxas, France
Preserved Edo Period Neighborhood In Japan
Hawa Mahal In Jaipur, India
However, as the 20th century unfolded, a significant shift started to occur. Globalization of people and ideas led to a departure from historical styles, and embraced more functional and streamlined approaches. This shift in perspective marked the beginning of a gradual move towards minimalism, and minimalist architecture.
how The Bauhaus movement influenced minimalist architecture
The Bauhaus School for the Arts (1919 -1933, Germany) became the name for the movement toward geometric and functional design. The school’s classes included “metalworking, cabinetmaking, weaving, pottery, typography, and wall painting,” according to an article by the Met Museum.
The Bauhaus Movement inspired the idea that artists and craftsmen were interchangeable titles and held the slogan “Art into Industry.” This concept played a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of minimalist architecture.
The evolution towards a sleek architectural style can be attributed to various influences, both cultural and technological.
Basically, there was a second globalization following WWII (1939-1945) and this caused a boom of human migration. Around 20 million Europeans were displaced, including 16.5 million Germans. These people shared ideas, designs, and processes as they traveled. This movement popularized “Neo-Russian, Swiss or Alpine and Nordic” architectural styles, especially in places outside their “region of origin.”
As cities grew and technology advanced, the need for practical, space-efficient designs became increasingly evident. Not only was minimalist architecture popular, but there was a significant demand for housing during this time. Because of this need, many designs you see today exhibit features of the Bauhaus Movement and Scandinavian design. Some of these features include simple neutral color schemes and large windows to maximize light. They also use modern inexpensive building materials like concrete, steel, and glass.
The Seagram Building in New York City, designed by Mies van der Rohe and completed in 1958
Fear of the international style
Moreover, the globalization of design trends has played a pivotal role in shaping architectural preferences. Architects and designers shared their minimalist, inexpensive, and efficient creations on a global stage. The world simply adopted their favorite designs.
Architecture vs. Globalization by Beata Majerska-Pałubicka uncovers conflicts of how globalization has caused a standardization of life around the world. Specifically, this conflict is seen in architecture and building design. She argues because of globalization, “architecture became detached from its local, cultural and geographical context” and, “in drastic situations, [caused] the disappearance of cultures of weaker countries and regions.”
Majerska-Palubicka warns of a single, global architectural style, accepted by the entire world.
Presented in 1932, the International Style exemplifies Majerska-Palubicka’s fears. Historian Henry-Russell Hitchcock and architect Philip Johnson defined three key design principles of the International Style:
Architecture as volume – thin planes or surfaces create the building’s form, as opposed to a solid mass
Regularity in the façade, as opposed to building symmetry
No applied ornament
The International Style is characterized by flat roofs, asymmetrical, and no applied exterior ornaments or decorations. This style is very close in nature to minimalist architecture.
Globalization has provided designers and architects a nearly unlimited palette when it comes to styles, building materials, and references. Architecture is no longer the product of its context and environment. Essentially, we used to build according to the immediate environment and available resources. Now, we build using everything in the cheapest way possible.
It’s a conflict of creativity versus efficiency.
Form should Follow function
The core principle of the minimalist architecture design philosophy is rooted in the idea that form should follow function. Essentially, emphasizing clean lines, open spaces, and a focus on necessary elements. The idea of form following function is a key lesson in many forms of art, especially sculpture.
Aesthetics for Birds describes the phrase as “a claim about what makes good architecture and design (chairs and cars and clothes and cities). And it’s usually taken to be anti-ornamentation/anti-decoration and pro-minimalist architecture.”
This departure from excess ornamentation marked a paradigm shift in how architects approached their craft. Those who used Form Follows Function, sought to redefine the relationship between space, light, and materials.
This idea of function-based-design is beautifully shown in the Paimio Sanatorium, designed by Alvar and Aino Aalto in 1929. This building functioned to prevent tuberculosis and included knowledge of the disease and what prevents it into the physical design.
In my opinion, this building is an absolute work of art; it is aesthetically pleasing and functional. It included cross-ventilation and heliotherapy (exposure to sunshine). It housed specific designs for the chairs, sinks, closets and beds: all to prevent tuberculosis and make breathing easier for patients. This is one of the only sanitation stations still standing today.
Paimio Sanatorium, Paimio, Finland, 1929–33; Photograph: Building A to the south and the water pool, Gustaf Welin, Alvar Aalto Foundation
Alvar Aalto (Finnish, 1898–1976); Bent plywood, bent laminated birch, and solid birch; Manufacturer: Oy Huonekalu-ja Rakennustyötehdas Ab, Turku, Finland; The Museum of Modern Art, New York, Edgar Kaufmann, Jr. Fund, 1943
Challenges and Criticisms: Balancing Form and Function
While the sleek and minimalist architecture style has gained popularity, it is not without its challenges and criticisms. Some argue the emphasis on simplicity may lead to a lack of diversity in architectural expression, with buildings appearing homogenous and indistinguishable. Another arguments are these “anti-human buildings that do not ‘spark joy’” are wasteful, unsustainable, and environmentally irresponsible to build in the first place.
Architectural myopia
Critics assess the disconnect between the architectural elite and the general population. Known as Architectural Myopia, scientific and psychological studies show architects perceive buildings differently than the average person. The article explains that “instead of a contextual world of harmonious geometric relationships and connectedness, architects tend to see a world of objects set apart from their contexts, with distinctive, attention-getting qualities.” The source of this cognitive disconnect is correlated, in the article, to academic training including artistic critiques, a overarching expectation to successfully follow ‘form over function,’ and over-inflated egos of the architectural community.
The result of architectural myopia is architecture which fails to support its inhabitants. Think about apartment buildings that isolate people and don’t provide enough natural light. Think about cities planned for vehicles, rather than incorporating sidewalks and parks and walkable communal areas. These are examples of architecture failing our communities.
poor architecture leads to years of Broken promises
In 2007, Brad Pitt founded a charity program to rebuild 90+ homes for New Orleanians whose homes were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The homes were designed to look futuristic, they did not appear to have any reference of the historic city, they were expensive to build (around $400,000 each) and expensive to fix. Mold began to grow on the “experimental materials” and much of the wooden decks rotted due to the humid climate in Louisiana. The New Republic called the houses “a waste of money and a distracting sideshow.”
Brad Pitt Recruited Frank Gehry to Design Sustainable, Two-Family Home For Make It Right in New Orleans
Unfortunately, this fiasco led to many years of turmoil for both Brad Pitt and his charity program — ironically called Make It Right, and much distress for the New Orleanians who were promised homes. One 91 year old woman, Marion Bryan paid the initial house deposit in 2008. She experienced the demolition of that house, the creation and demo of a second house, and the final construction of a home in 2014. However, as of 2023 in The Hollywood Reporter article, Marion currently lives with her son and not in any house built by the Make It Right organization.
The class-action lawsuit against Make It Right and Brad Pitt began in 2018, and reached a settlement in 2022, in which the 107 homeowners were “eligible to receive $25,000 as reimbursement for repairs.” A company known as Global Green USA announced they were going to pay the $20.5 million settlement, but it turned out they didn’t have the money. According to public documents and reports, the New Orleans homeowners, many of whom can’t live in their homes, have not received any money from the lawsuit.
Unsustainable minimalist architecture
Many new buildings have also become a wasteful use of resources because they are difficult to repair, maintain, and re-use. When I worked in a large business building downtown, I noticed many of the 30+ floors were empty. Likely due to Covid-19 and the housing crisis, my building was not alone in this tragedy. The majority of my coworkers were remote and the office was usually sparse. I would joke with my peers that we could all take an entire floor to ourselves, and it would cost less than our tiny apartments. To this day, those floors are still empty.
John Barham describes the scenario perfectly in the following quote:
A building designed with utility first, and form second, will not charm its future occupiers into repurposing it when its original function comes to an end. Because they were designed to look cool and original, their aesthetics will go out of fashion as quickly as they came into fashion.
In short, it is not just that people find new buildings ugly, but they represent a fundamentally unsustainable way of building human environments.
Conclusion
As we navigate the 21st century, the architectural landscape continues to evolve, reflecting the values, technologies, and global interconnectedness of our time. The shift towards more minimalist architecture and sleek style signifies a departure from the ornate, elaborate, and artistic structures of the past. The new styles embrace the achievement of simple, inexpensive, and efficient design.
However, efficient is not always best and creative is not always functional. It is the balance of form and function that leads to great architecture and great design.
Enjoy this article? Check out more from Artsy Drawings here!
Why you should make your own artistic ‘happy birthday’ cards
Maybe you’re a bad friend and haven’t realized, but ‘happy birthday’ cards have gotten really expensive. If you’re in a rush, sure, buy the card, but if you have an ounce of artistic merit and some cardstock paper, I can teach you to create a much more personalized card for a lot less money.
This happy birthday card from Target is currently $4.99.
At $5 per ‘happy birthday’ card, plus the cost of a gift, I decided early on to make my own cards for my friends, and they love them. In fact, I’ve been told my friends choose to keep my handmade cards over most others.
Unfortunately, none of my own cards will be in this article. I choose not to photograph my homemade cards to preserve their integrity as intimate gifts for my friends and family only. I am willing to share my Pinterest board where I source inspiration for my handmade cards.
The cards you make can be just text, feel free to add drawings as you wish.
Art also has a unique way of expressing emotions, and what better occasion to put your creative skills to work than a friend’s birthday? In this fast-paced world, where digital communication often takes precedence, a handcrafted birthday card can truly stand out as a heartfelt gesture.
This blog post will not only guide you through the process of making beautiful birthday cards but also explore the idea of planning them in advance based on analytics to ensure you never miss an opportunity to celebrate your friends’ special days.
Tip 1: The Power of Personalized Happy Birthday Cards
This is such a cute and easy to make card, sourced from my Pinterest board.
In a world filled with text messages and emails, a handmade happy birthday card can make a profound impact. It shows that you’ve invested time and thought into celebrating your friend’s special day.
The act of giving is itself rewarding, and when it’s a personalized birthday card, it can bring immense joy to both the giver and the receiver. A well-crafted card reflects your love and care for your friend.
Tip 2: Gathering Supplies
Before you begin crafting, gather essential art supplies such as colored paper, scissors, glue, markers, stickers, and embellishments. These will be your tools for creating a unique card to say “happy birthday” or “congratulations” or “i love you.”
Choosing the right materials is crucial. Consider your friend’s personality and preferences when selecting colors, patterns, and themes for the card. Personalization makes the card even more special. For example, I know my mom’s favorite colors are pink and green so I try to include that color scheme in her cards.
Your card can be for any occasion, from a happy birthday to a happy father’s day.
Keep color theory in mind when choosing your colors for these heartfelt cards. Red and green may come across as Christmas themed, purple and orange may feel too much like Halloween, and hot pink may not be the best choice for your hyper-masculine guy friend (but hey, if you know he likes the color, go for it).
I typically start the design process by gathering inspiration. Check out my Pinterest Board titled ‘Cards‘ to see my inspiration for handmade cards.
When designing a ‘happy birthday’ card, think about items representing birthdays like candles, cake, balloons, confetti and party hats.
Start by sketching out your card’s design using pencil on a spare sheet of paper. For more sketching and drawing tips for beginners check out this article. This rough sketch will help you visualize the final product and make necessary adjustments.
There are countless card layouts to choose from, such as pop-up cards, layered cards, and simple folded cards. Pick one that suits your design and skills.
Though, if inspiration is just not striking, AI may help spark some creativity. Use Chat GPT to find just the right words to say. For more about using AI in art, read this article.
As a last resort, ask Chat GPT to create text for your card if artists block is blocking the emotions.
You can also include personal elements like photographs, handwritten messages, or inside jokes that are meaningful to your friendship. These touches will make your card truly unique.
Tip 4: Planning Ahead with Analytics
In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to track birthdays. Consider using calendar apps or social media platforms to remind yourself of your friends birthdays.
You can also optimize your card making processes by using simple analytics.
According to this visualization heat map created by Bo McCready, September is the most popular month to be born.
This visualization heat map shows the popularity of birthdays in the US between 1973 – 1999.
An analyst at Gramener Inc evaluated a similar result as Bo McCready’s results showing more births in September than other months of the year.
Gramener Inc also found the following results:
“Most people are born in August & September (and therefore were conceived around November & December, during the holidays, perhaps?)
However, very few people are actually born during holidays – New year, Independence day, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. (People don’t like to spoil their holidays?)
Few people are born on the 1st of April. (You don’t want your kid born on Fool’s Day)
Few people are born on the 13th of any month. (Unlucky?)
Plenty are born on Valentine’s Day and St Patrick’s day”
Analyst Roy Murphy sourced birthdates from “480,040 insurance policy applications” between 1981-1994 from a Life Insurance Company.
I decided to include one more visualization from another source providing evidence of seasonality in birthdates. The data was sourced from birthdates from “480,040 insurance policy applications” between 1981-1994 from a Life Insurance Company. The graph shows July, August, and September as having the most birthdays of any other month throughout the year.
Identifying patterns in your friends’ birthdays can help you when creating cards in bulk. September or August may be the perfect time to create several cards at once, when you know September is the most popular month for birthdays in the United States. This efficient approach allows you to be prepared and thoughtful.
While batch card making can save time, remember to personalize each card according to the recipient’s preferences and personality. Adding small, thoughtful details can go a long way.
Tip 5: Crafting Tips and Techniques
Visual of hot dog and hamburger style folding. These are the typical folding styles for ‘happy birthday’ cards.
If you’re looking for tips specifically focused on the design and drawing phase of crafting homemade cards, here are 10 valuable suggestions:
Sketch Your Ideas: Start by sketching your card’s design on a blank sheet of paper. This preliminary step helps you visualize the layout and composition before committing to the final card.
Consider Card Size and Orientation: Decide on the size and orientation (landscape or portrait) (hotdog or hamburger) of your card before diving into the design. This choice will impact the available space and layout possibilities.
Choose a Focal Point: Determine the main element or focal point of your card’s design. It could be a beautifully drawn flower, a charming illustration, or a calligraphy ‘happy birthday.’ Make this element the star of your card.
Explore Themes: Select a theme that aligns with the occasion or recipient’s interests. Whether it’s a whimsical design for a child’s birthday or a sophisticated motif for a formal event, a clear theme will guide your drawing.
Color Harmony: Plan your color scheme carefully. Consider complementary and harmonious colors that evoke the desired mood. Test your chosen colors on a separate sheet before applying them to the card.
Practice Your Drawing Skills: If you’re not confident in your drawing abilities, practice specific elements that will appear on the card, such as flowers, animals, or lettering. The more you practice, the more polished your final card will be.
Incorporate Hand Lettering and Fonts: Handwritten messages add a personal touch. If you’re comfortable with hand lettering, consider writing your card’s message using different fonts or calligraphy styles. We will discuss tips for calligraphy later in this article.
Balance and Symmetry: Pay attention to balance and symmetry in your design. Ensure that elements are evenly spaced, and the overall layout feels visually pleasing. Symmetry can create a sense of harmony in your card. John Mulaney jokes about this concept in the video below.
Experiment with Textures: Incorporate textures into your design. Use shading techniques, stippling, or cross-hatching to add depth and dimension to your drawings. Experimenting with textures can make your card visually interesting.
Prototype and Refine: Don’t be afraid to create a few prototypes or drafts before finalizing your card. This allows you to test different design ideas and make refinements based on what works best.
John Mulaney jokes about the well known situation of writing a happy birthday card without planning out the letters first.
Remember, the design and drawing phase is where your creativity truly shines. Take your time, enjoy the artistic process, and let your unique style come through in each card you create. Whether you’re crafting cards for a friend’s happy birthday, holidays, or any special occasion, your personal touch will make them truly special and cherished by the recipients.
Improving your calligraphy or hand lettering skills can make your cards look even more elegant and personal. I like to use a brush tip pen for calligraphy, though I would suggest the Piochoo Calligraphy Pens for beginner artists wanting a variety of different tips. Amazon provides these pens for a reasonable inexpensive price. If you find you like a specific pen best, invest in more expensive ones. My favorites are fine point Sharpies and dual tip markers like these on Amazon. Check out this article for more artistic mediums I use to draw and paint.
Also, make sure to test out your markers and pens before writing on the final card! I opt for pens rather than ink, but both can bleed depending on the paper.
This artist used the wrong type of paper, and found their writing bled across the page.
You may also consider integrating technology into your cards, such as adding a QR code that leads to a personalized video message or playlist. How cute would it be if you use a QR code for the ‘happy birthday’ song!! This modern touch can absolutely enhance the card’s charm and charisma.
Tip 6: Assembling and Presenting Your Card
Assemble your card with precision and patience. Pay attention to details like even folds and neat glue application. Small details like these will be what sets your work apart from a handmade gift to a memorable work of art.
Adding color to the edges of your envelope can help improve the presentation quality of your card.
How you present the card is as important as the card itself. Use a decorative envelope or gift box, and consider adding a small gift or token of appreciation. I like to throw in a couple cute stickers, cut out heart confetti, or spray a little of my favorite perfume.
Tip 7: The Joy of Gifting
Now it’s time to give your card away! The joy on your friend’s face when they receive a handmade card is priceless. The surprise element adds to the delight. A well-crafted happy birthday card often becomes a cherished keepsake, a reminder of the beautiful moments you’ve shared with your friend.
Celebrating Friendship Through Art
In a world where digital communication often prevails, taking the time to create personalized birthday cards is a beautiful way to celebrate and strengthen your relationships and friendships. By planning ahead based on analytics and putting thought into each card’s design, you can make your friends feel truly special on their birthdays.
Remember, it’s not just about the artistry card itself but the love and care that go into making it. So, gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and start crafting those meaningful happy birthday cards today! Your friends will undoubtedly appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness you put into each one, making their birthdays, holidays, and celebrations all the more memorable.
Graffiti art drawings are a testament to the resilience of self-expression in the face of conformity. These vivid visual narratives are far more than mere sketches on barren walls; they are declarations of defiance and creativity. In a world where the urban landscape is the canvas, how can you make sure your graffiti art drawings stand out and communicate your message? This article explores how to create captivating graffiti, offers insights and techniques, and describes the cynical journey art takes from the streets to museums.
Pedro Luján and his Dog by Martin Ron features a stunning 3D graffiti painting of a sea turtle appearing to swim out of a hole in the wall.
The Dynamic Spectrum of Graffiti Art Drawings
Graffiti art drawings encompass a kaleidoscope of styles, messages, and mediums. Housed like the homeless, these drawings challenge conventions, spark conversations, and mirror society’s complexity.
Crafting captivating graffiti art drawings involves striking a balance between artistry and audacity, and weaving narratives that resonate deeply.
Basically, what makes something street art is the message in the context of the setting combined with visual aesthetics and painterly techniques.
Banksy’s Whisper of Dissent
Banksy is an England-based street artist, political activist, and film director whose real identity remains unknown despite considerable speculation. He is known for his satirical street art and subversive artistry combining dark humor with graffiti executed in a distinctive stenciling technique.
Firstly, Banksy’s art is probably some of the most well known graffiti art in the world. That being said, the artist’s unknown identity juxtaposes their popularity, which fits the theme of this article.
Banksy’s graffiti is moving. As shown below, works like “The Flower Thrower” resonates as a powerful statement against oppression and inequality. Banksy’s work comments on topics of capitalism, war, and issues in common society. Like Banksy’s graffiti art drawings, use your art to start conversation, question norms, and challenge views.
Banksy creates some of the most well known graffiti art drawings like The Flower Thrower in which “the protester is a pacifist.”
Shepard Fairey’s Iconic Amplification
Next, Shepard Fairey’s works, such as “Obey Giant,” blend pop art with street culture, evoking emotions and creating a lasting impact.
Incorporating recognizable symbols into his art, Fairey’s graffiti art style is instantly recognizable.
Shepard Fairey’s first series Andre the Giant, was modeled after an image of professional wrestler André René Roussimoff
Shepard Fairey’s art style is an exquisite fusion of pop art and activism. His signature use of bright, bold colors, striking visuals, and thought-provoking messages defines his work. In addition to visuals, his graffiti art drawings often carry an urgency to engage with social and political issues.
Fairey’s meticulous attention to detail and his ability to distill complex ideas into impactful imagery are hallmarks of his artistry. Likewise, his art style exudes a sense of cultural commentary, a visual conversation that challenges norms and prompts contemplation.
Basquiat’s Emotional Outpouring
Jean-Michel Basquiat’s art is a raw emotional outpouring on canvas. His graffiti art drawings, like “Untitled,” evoke feelings through chaotic lines and vibrant colors. Similar to Shepard Fairey’s work, Basquait uses the color red to invoke angry, passion, and intense emotions. Basquiat’s style mirrors Expressionism art styles, where color, texture, and brushstrokes reflect inner emotions. If you are interested in find out more about your personal art style, check out this quiz I created. Your art may also reflect an Expressionist style like Basquiat!
Basquiat’s graffiti art drawings, like this work titled Untitled, rebel against traditional norms, and voice a bold testament to the power of unfiltered self-expression and an exploration of identity.
Jean-Michel Basquiat’s art style is an electrifying blend of abstraction, street influences, and expressive rawness. His overall use of vivid colors and frenetic brushwork creates a sense of immediacy and emotional intensity.
Often, Basquiat’s art incorporates text, symbols, and cryptic codes, inviting viewers to decipher hidden meanings. His fusion of cultural references, from African art to street graffiti, forms a visual tapestry that resonates with diverse audiences. Basquiat’s art style is a rebellion against traditional norms, a bold testament to the power of unfiltered self-expression and an exploration of identity.
Inviting Interactivity with Ernest Zacharevic
Ernest Zacharevic’s graffiti art drawings incorporate real-world objects, inviting passersby to interact. Similar to the two previous artists, Zacharevic wants his viewers to interact and really feel his art. His pieces engage viewers both visually and physically, sparking a sense of wonder and social participation. He incorporates physical elements into the graffiti art drawings, making it an immersive experience for the audience.
The whimsical feeling of Ernest Zacharevic’s art style is a beautiful marriage of street art and interactive installations. His unique approach involves integrating real-world objects alongside his art, ultimately inviting viewers to actively engage with his art. Through this interplay, his pieces appear to come alive, blurring the line between art and reality.
children on bicycle by Ernest Zacharevic requires the surrounding environment to provide context to the art.
In short, Zacharevic’s art often exudes a playful and whimsical quality, injecting a dose of lightheartedness into urban landscapes. His ability to seamlessly merge physical elements with artistic expression adds a layer of surprise and delight to his work, turning passersby into participants in the artistic experience.
Insights and Techniques for Clean Graffiti Art Drawings
Master the Basics: Before diving into complex techniques, ensure you have a solid grasp of fundamental skills like line work, shading, and perspective.
Experiment with Styles and Mediums: Try different graffiti styles like wild style, bubble letters, or stencil art. This exploration will help you find your unique voice. For more context about how to find your voice and personal brand, check out my article here.
Practice Sketching: Regular sketching sharpens your creative abilities and helps you refine your concepts before translating them onto larger surfaces. For more tips to practice drawing, read this article.
Study Typography: Understanding letterforms and typography is essential in graffiti. Study various fonts and letter styles to add diversity to your work. A fun and easy way to do this is through bullet journalling. For BUJO and sketchbook inspiration, check out this article.
Color Theory: Learn color theory to create eye-catching compositions. Experiment with color schemes and their emotional impact.
Use Layering: Layering colors and elements can add depth and complexity to your work. Start with a base layer and build up from there.
Create Depth with Shadows: Mastering light and shadow adds realism and dimension to your pieces. Experiment with light sources to create depth.
Blend and Fade: Blending colors smoothly and fading them into one another adds a professional touch to your graffiti.
Stencil Techniques: Stencils can help achieve intricate details and precise lines. Experiment with various stencil techniques for dynamic and detailed effects.
Incorporate Texture: Use various tools to create texture in your art. Sponges, fabric, and even unconventional objects can add tactile interest, physically incorporating the audience and environment into the graffiti art drawings.
Embrace 3D Effects: Incorporating three-dimensional elements gives your graffiti an extra dimension. Practice adding depth and highlights for a realistic look.
Study Perspective: Understanding perspective is crucial for creating graffiti art drawings that interact with their environments. Practice drawing objects from different angles.
Keep Evolving: Graffiti is about pushing boundaries. Continuously seek inspiration from other artists, experiment with new techniques, and never stop learning.
Remember, graffiti art is a form of self-expression, so don’t be afraid to break the rules and develop your unique style. Practice, persevere, and maintain a willingness to learn: these will be your greatest allies on your journey to mastering graffiti art techniques.
The Museum Paradox
Does street art belong in museums? Does the surrounding environment matter in art?
When I visited the Moco Museum in 2021, I was met with a series of different emotions and questions. I felt the awe of seeing some of Banksy’s most famous works personally and confusion about whether the work should even be in a gallery, where I had paid money for entry.
Man wearing mask stares intently at Banksy’s Home Sweet Home
Additionally, on the Moco Museum website, the gallery states Banksy has no say in the exhibition of his work:
“The ‘Laugh Now’ exhibition is not authorised by Banksy nor it is curated by the artist. Moco Museum features a diverse selection of original works throughout Banksy’s noteworthy career.”
Christopher Michaut takes an interesting approach to the conversation of Banksy’s unauthorized exhibition in his article for the Daily Art Magazine.
Simply put, it seems the very rebellious nature that gave rise to graffiti art is now being paradoxically displayed in museums.
Artists who were once anonymous are now selling their artwork for high prices. This change is causing discussions about whether this move to museums is genuine or just for profit, and it’s making people wonder if the true spirit of street art can still exist in museums.
On one hand, it lets more people see and appreciate this type of art. But, on the other hand, it may take away from the raw and daring essence that makes graffiti art unique.
Understandably, this change is difficult for many artists. Moving from the streets to museums is a delicate balance between staying rebellious and fitting into a more mainstream setting. Likewise, the artist must choose between their origins and making the most of new opportunities.
Environmental Effects
On the other other hand, creating art for a museum is more legal and safer than spray painting a building without consent.
In addition to legitimizing a street artists’ work, museums diligently safeguard precious artworks, ensuring their preservation for generations to come. Climate-controlled environments, delicate lighting, and expert care all come together to shield art from the ravages of time.
However, the nature of graffiti art, often exposed to the elements and subject to the unpredictability of urban life, contrasts starkly with this protected realm. While museums provide a controlled haven for art, graffiti art exists vulnerably in its raw form, weathering the same elements that give it life.
When artwork is moved from gritty city walls to the sterile halls of museums, an essential part of their essence is lost. The street, the texture, the unexpectedness – these are all elements that street artists use to their advantage when choosing the platform for their art. Placing graffiti work in a museum might provide wider exposure, but it also strips away the very environment that gives the art its life and power.
In museums, the vibrant interplay between art and context is muted, reducing the impact that graffiti pieces could have in their natural habitat. This is a prime example of why some people believe that graffiti art loses its authenticity when confined to museum spaces, as it’s severed from the very context that nurtured its birth and meaning.
Conclusion
Graffiti art drawings defy the boundaries of traditional artistry, pushing the limits of expression and protest. Artists like Banksy, Shepard Fairey, and Jean-Michel Basquiat thrive in controversy. Remember, your art can be commentary to injustice, encouragement for change, and a mirror to society’s idiosyncrasies. Find your brand, your voice, and share it.
As you wield your medium of choice, whether a spray can or paint brush or chisel or Photoshop, remember that your art possesses the power to question, inspire, and provoke.
In the streets where messages are drowned in noise, your graffiti art drawings can become the unsilenced voice. In every stroke, every splash of color, and every intricate detail, you encapsulate stories that transcend surfaces and resonate with souls. Embrace the irony of the museum paradox, for within it lies a testament to the evolution of rebellion and the temporary nature of creativity in the 21st century. Let your graffiti art drawings challenge, captivate, and leave an indelible mark on the world’s canvas, echoing the voices of the brave.
What is personal branding and how do you start? Where do you find inspiration for it? How do you improve your personal brand through market changes? What are some great examples of personal branding?
Introduction
In the age of digital connectivity, crafting a compelling personal brand has become more than just an option—it’s a necessity. Your personal brand, a melding of your values, expertise, and online presence, is the compass that guides you towards opportunities and cultivates a meaningful online identity. This article dives headfirst into the art of building an impactful personal brand, offering insights, real-world examples, and a hopeful perspective on its role in your life.
Wikipedia defines personal branding by providing the purposes of career advancement, increasing circle of influence, and having a larger impact.
The Essence of a Strong Personal Brand
Your brand isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the vivid tapestry that reflects who you are, both professionally and personally. It shapes perceptions, fosters connections, and sets you apart in a crowded digital landscape. Try building a powerful personal brand which uses a multifaceted approach across many platforms and with many outlets.
To begin the process, think about your values, goals, and inspirations. Craft an identity you want to show the world. From there, add a color scheme, maybe a personalized logo, and a platform. For me, I use a website platform ArtsyDrawings.com.
If you are at a loss for how to build an optimized website, check out my colleague’s web design service: True Ideas.
Instagram Influencers: Building Communities Through Authenticity
Instagram influencers like @chrissyteigen and @selenagomez have cultivated personal brands rooted in authenticity. They share unfiltered glimpses of their lives, forging genuine connections with their followers. Emulate their approach by showcasing the real you, sharing your passions, and engaging openly with your audience.
Selena Gomez takes an authentic approach to her Instagram account by posting a candid photo she references as a “random moment” taken by her friend.
TikTok Creators: Crafting Compelling Stories in Seconds
TikTok influencers like @charlidamelio and @zachking have mastered the art of storytelling within seconds. When they use their personal brand to entertain, educate, and inspire, they create content that resonates across demographics. Take inspiration from their succinct storytelling and translate it into your own narrative. Also, many marketers advise short videos as the future of successful marketing.
Artists with a Digital Identity: Merging Creativity with Branding
Artists like Banksy and KAWS have utilized their digital presence to amplify their artwork’s impact. Compared to artists who choose to evade social media, these digital connoisseurs have extended their artistic narratives onto social media platforms, effectively merging their creativity with personal branding. Basically, they infuse their personal brands with elements of their craft, merging art with branding.
In some cases, the artist and his work become synonymous on Google. When you search Brian Donnelly, his work and his professional artist name “KAWS” dominates the first results page.
Here at Artsy Drawings, I enjoy merging artistry with my personal brand. I use Linktr.ee to create a single, customizable link that houses multiple links to their various online platforms, such as my portfolio, social media profiles and online store. Correspondingly, this link simplifies navigation for my audience, allowing them to access all relevant content from one centralized location. Check out my Linktr.ee here.
Brianna Eisman’s Linktr.ee includes her website, RedBubble, Fiverr, Venmo, LinkedIn, and Pinterest links. Each phrase includes a call to action.
It is important to also note that changing your personal brand with the market is actually a good thing. Recently, I decided to rebrand my website and social platforms with a new color scheme, dedicated fonts, and a logo that focused more on Artsy Drawings itself. For more details on my rebrand, check out my About page.
Job Hunting and Personal Branding: A Match Made in Success
Personal branding isn’t confined to social resources; it plays a pivotal role in job hunting too. When potential employers search your name, what they find can significantly influence their decisions. It is vitally important, especially post graduation, to create a story about who you are and how you want the world to view you. Then, craft your personal brand to reflect your skills, passions, and professional aspirations, essentially turning your online identity into a compelling resume.
Audit Your Social Media: First, go through your social media profiles and remove or adjust any content that might be seen as unprofessional or inappropriate. Delete posts or photos that could be misconstrued or reflect negatively back on you.
Update Your Privacy Settings: Review the privacy settings on your social media accounts to limit what can be viewed by the public. By adjusting your settings, you can control who sees your posts, photos, and personal information. Make use of features that allow you to approve tagged posts before they appear on your profile.
Create a Professional Online Presence: Next, focus on building a positive online image that aligns with your career goals. Share articles, posts, and content related to your industry to demonstrate your knowledge and interests. Consider creating a LinkedIn profile that highlights your professional accomplishments and connects you with others in your field.
Use a Professional Email Address: Create a professional email address that uses your name rather than a nickname or casual (silly goose) handle. This small change can make a positive impression on potential employers when they communicate with you via email.
Monitor Your Online Presence: Regularly search your name on search engines to see what information comes up. This will help you identify any potentially damaging content and take steps to address it. If you find negative information, then you can try to address it directly or focus on pushing positive content higher in search results through active online engagement. Also, try to research personal brand examples to see how influencers tackle positive and negative media.
Digital Marketing Yourself: An Essential Skill in Today’s World
In a world where digital interactions dominate, marketing yourself online is crucial. Similarly to businesses, you can use digital strategies to showcase your personal brand and reach your audience. Hence, dive into SEO optimization, content creation, and consistent engagement to cultivate a strong online presence.
As you grow digitally, try to track your data through insights and analytics. This recording process can be integral in knowing how well your content is performing and analyzing how to improve. For more details about data visualization, collection, and reporting check out my article titled “How to Visualize Data as a Multi-Skilled Artist.”
Noteworthy Personal Brand Examples
Marie Forleo (@marieforleo): A businesswoman and motivational speaker, Marie Forleo’s personal brand is built on empowerment and entrepreneurship. Overall, her online platform provides valuable content that resonates with aspiring business leaders.
Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself): Renowned author Neil Gaiman’s personal brand seamlessly weaves his fantastical writing with his witty and engaging online presence. He particularly uses platforms like Twitter to connect with fans, share insights, and showcase his creative process.
Lizzo (@lizzo): Singer and body positivity advocate Lizzo’s personal brand radiates confidence, self-love, and unapologetic authenticity. Her empowering messages and music resonate with a global audience, making her a prime example of a relatable personal brand.
Simon Sinek (@simonsinek): Leadership expert Simon Sinek’s personal brand centers around inspiring leadership and self-discovery. Basically, his TED Talks, books, and majority of his online presence encourage individuals to find their “why” and lead with purpose.
Alex Strohl (@alexstrohl): Adventure photographer Alex Strohl’s personal brand seamlessly intertwines his passion for photography with a love for travel and the outdoors. His captivating visuals and storytelling inspire wanderlust in his followers.
Amanda Gorman (@amandascgorman): Poet Amanda Gorman’s personal brand combines her powerful words with her advocacy for social change. Her eloquence and activism have made her a symbol of hope and progress.
Casey Neistat (@caseyneistat): Filmmaker and content creator Casey Neistat’s personal brand is characterized by his unique storytelling style and his commitment to authenticity. Following his YouTube vlogs and cinematic videos offers insights into his life and creative processes.
Gwyneth Paltrow (@gwynethpaltrow): Last but not least, actress and entrepreneur Gwyneth Paltrow’s personal brand revolves around wellness and lifestyle. Her company, Goop, and her online presence promote holistic living and self-care.
Conclusion
Crafting a compelling personal brand isn’t just about garnering followers; it’s about shaping an identity that reflects your values, aspirations, and expertise. As you navigate the digital landscape, drawing inspiration from Instagram influencers, TikTok creators, and notable figures like artists and public speakers, remember that personal branding is a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Remember, in job hunting, personal branding acts as a beacon that attracts the right opportunities. By digitally marketing yourself, you take control of your narrative and present your most authentic self to the world. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative artist, or a professional seeking advancement, your personal brand serves as your virtual handshake, leaving a memorable impression that extends beyond pixels and platforms.
Embrace the evolution of your personal brand with hope and enthusiasm, for it is a canvas that you paint with your passions, experiences, and aspirations. As you infuse your online presence with authenticity, engagement, and a touch of inspiration, you’re bound to forge connections, open doors, and carve a meaningful path towards success.
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Within the vast realm of art, various artistic mediums offer unique possibilities for artists to translate their visions onto the canvas. In this Artsy Drawings…
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Explore the art of captivating graffiti, insights and techniques inspired by famous artists, and the graffiti art drawings’ journey from the streets to museums.
Hey there, it’s Brianna! My articles are a way for me to express myself in words, rather than acrylic paint or colored pencils, and maybe share a little of my artist knowledge with you. This is a place where I talk about art crafts, art history, techniques, mediums, and what skills I’ve picked up on this creative journey.
Artsy Drawings is about finding cool art and learning how to become a better, more creative individual. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been doodling forever, let’s explore the simple joys of creating art together. No pressure, no big words—just a friendly spot where we can chat about making art and having fun along the way. Come chill and bring your creativity!
Art is a powerful means of self-expression that allows individuals to convey emotions, ideas, and experiences. Within the vast realm of art, various artistic mediums offer unique possibilities for artists to translate their visions onto the canvas.
In this Artsy Drawings blog post, we delve into five fascinating artistic mediums that have captured the hearts of many: acrylic, mixed media, watercolor, pencil, and gouache. I chose the order by which are my personal favorite artistic mediums. So, let’s explore the distinct qualities and creative potential of each of the five artistic mediums and discover why they are beloved by artists worldwide.
Acrylic – my all time favorite of the artistic mediums
Acrylic: Versatility and Vibrancy
I want to start with my favorite artistic medium: acrylic paint. This medium is becoming increasingly popular due to its versatility and vibrant color range. Many artists, like myself, appreciate the quick drying time of acrylics, which allows for layering and blending techniques. Rather than waiting around all day, (approximately 24 hours) for oil paint to dry, I can work much faster with acrylic paint, which can dry within 20-30 minutes. For example, the painting below, Pretty Plants #2, was completed in four total hours, mostly because I didn’t want to waste paint.
Pretty Plants #2 by Brianna Eisman is part of an acrylic on canvas series featuring different plants on gradient backgrounds.
Also, I love the versatility of acrylic paint. You can change the consistency by adding water or acrylic mediums. These additions allow you to create transparent glazes or thick impasto textures. The fast-drying nature of acrylics makes it easier to correct mistakes or make alterations during the painting process.
This technique is great for impressionist styles. I had to use it often for paintings during my art classes, as I had limited time to work. When the class ended, I had to clean up quickly so my paints wouldn’t dry out. As a result, my early paintings had a lot of small strokes layered on top of each other, giving them an impressionist look. For example, the painting below, inspired by Edgar Degas’s dancers, has multiple layers of colors and strokes, especially in the tutu skirts, creating depth with a light yellow base and blues and pinks added on top.
Not sure what your art style resembles? Check out this quiz I made to help you find which art style matches your artwork!
Dancers Stretching by Brianna Eisman was inspired by impressionist painter Edgar Degas. I used acrylic paint on stretched canvas for this painting.
One of the key advantages of acrylics is its ability to mimic other artistic mediums. It can resemble watercolor when diluted or take on the characteristics of oil paint when applied with a heavy body. Acrylic paint can be used on a variety of surfaces, including canvas, wood, paper, and even glass or metal. These broad possibilities add acrylic paint to the list of favorited artistic mediums for many artists.
For me, I have built my acrylic paint arsenal over many years of experience. I prefer Liquitex Basics for my white paint (I use Titanium White more than any other color). I also like Lukas CRYL Studio Paints, although they’re a little more expensive.
Lastly, I like DecoArt Acrylic Paints for projects under 24″x 36″. DecoArt paint typically comes in smaller containers, but I find they are easier to store than larger tube style paints. The brand also just released an environmentally friendly acrylic paint set!
Mixed Media – Making me a trash monster, one sticker at a time
Mixed Media: Limitless Creativity
Mixed media art involves the combination of different materials and techniques to create unique visual experiences. This next medium truly puts “artistic” in the artistic mediums list. Mixed media encourages artists to think beyond the boundaries of traditional artistic approaches. Mixed media, literally mixes artistic mediums. It allows for the incorporation of diverse elements such as paper, fabric, found objects, photographs, and even digital media. You can also classify the use of both paint and pens in the same piece as mixed media, as you are ‘mixing’ the artistic mediums.
Many of my sketchbooks use mixed media. Sometimes, I feel like a trash monster. I collect fortune cookie quotes and receipts and ticket stubs and stickers. I arrange them all in specific sketchbooks as a document of my life, my mental health, and my travels.
Hand of God by Brianna Eisman is a mixed media work featuring watercolor paint, ink, magazine cutouts, and stickers.
The beauty of mixed media art lies in its limitless possibilities and the freedom it provides for artistic expression. Artists can explore texture, depth, and layers, creating rich and multidimensional artworks with an unlimited number of artistic mediums.
I also think mixed media is one of the most environmentally friendly types of art. As I mentioned above, I sometimes feel like a trash monster, but you really can save money on art supplies by using mixed media. My colleague Emily wrote a great article about how to thrift art supplies, and I think second-hand art supplies could make for the best type of textured found-object artwork.
These limitless mixtures of artistic mediums invite experimentation and encourages artists to step outside their comfort zones, leading to innovative and thought-provoking creations.
Watercolor
Watercolor: Elegance and Serenity
Watercolor paint has an ethereal and delicate quality, often capturing the essence of light, translucency, and fluidity. Artists love the subtle nuances and atmospheric effects achieved with this medium. So, the transparent nature of watercolor allows for luminous washes and seamless gradients.
I also find watercolor to be one of the more accessible art mediums. I absolutely love my cheap Crayola watercolor paints! All you need for watercolor is the paint kit, water in a cup, a brush, and maybe a paper towel or two.
Desk in Watercolor by Brianna Eisman was painted on a lonely night when all I wanted to do was paint and watch a rom-com on my computer. So I did just that.
Watercolor’s unpredictability adds an element of spontaneity and excitement to the painting process. The artist must adapt and work with the flow of water and pigment, resulting in charming imperfections and unique characteristics. This medium is perfect for capturing landscapes, still lifes, and expressive portraits, evoking a sense of tranquility and serenity.
Pencil Drawings
Pencil: Timeless Precision
Pencil is one of the most fundamental artistic mediums, cherished for its simplicity and versatility. With just a simple pencil and paper, artists can create intricate drawings, detailed sketches, and realistic portraits. Likewise, the graphite shades offer a wide tonal range, enabling artists to achieve a remarkable level of precision and detail.
The following image features Design 3, the third design commissioned for a custom floral engagement ring. The patron chose a graphite medium to show fine details and edit the design as needed throughout the workflow of the project.
Design 3 by Brianna Eisman is a graphite sketch for a custom engagement ring design.
Pencil drawings possess a timeless quality, and the monochromatic nature of graphite pencil adds a sense of elegance and understated beauty. Overall, this medium is perfect for capturing textures, shading, and creating stunning grayscale compositions. Pencil art allows artists to focus on the essentials, emphasizing form, and exploring the interplay of light and shadow. It is also a good starting point for many artists, making it one of the most popular artistic mediums.
Gouache
Gouache: Boldness and Opacity
Last but not least, is gouache paint! Gouache is still new to me, but one of the more powerful artistic mediums. I see this medium growing in popularity and I want to experiment with it more. Gouache paint combines aspects of both watercolor and acrylic and allows for many opaque layers added on throughout the process, especially at the end with a fine tip brush.
The following painting by me, inspired by the infamous Klimt masterpiece, uses gouache paint and features a couple embracing in a beautiful and intimate kiss. I bought this exact gouache paint set and I really loved it for a starter set. I will admit that I used the white quickly, but I always use white paint more than any other color. For the price and ease, this is a great paint set for any artist wanting to get into gouache.
The Kiss by Brianna Eisman was inspired by the Kiss by Gustav Klimt.
Gouache’s unique opacity and matte finish give it a distinct aesthetic appeal. Gouache has this masterful ability to provide solid, vibrant colors. Artists can easily apply the paint to various surfaces, including paper, canvas, and illustration boards. The opaque nature of gouache allows artists to correct mistakes or make revisions by simply layering additional paint over the existing layers. Gouache allows for layering and reworking, making it ideal for illustrative works.
One of the key advantages of gouache is its versatility in creating both fine details and bold, graphic elements. Artists can achieve crisp edges, intricate patterns, and precise lines, making it a popular choice among illustrators and designers.
Beautiful Forest by Brianna Eisman uses gouache in a sketchbook.
Another noteworthy aspect of gouache is its rewetting properties. As a sustainable artist, this is one of my favorite parts! Unlike acrylics or oil paint, gouache can be reactivated with water, even after it has dried. This makes it possible to rework areas of the painting or blend colors seamlessly, providing artists with greater control and flexibility.
Furthermore, gouache’s quick-drying nature makes it convenient for artists who prefer to work in layers or require shorter drying times for their projects. This quality allows for efficient workflow, enabling artists to build up layers of color and detail without extended waiting periods.
Each of these artistic mediums possesses its own unique qualities and appeal, attracting artists with different preferences and artistic goals. Acrylics offer versatility and vibrancy, mixed media enables limitless creativity, watercolor exudes elegance and serenity, pencils provide timeless precision, and gouache showcases boldness and opacity.
These favorite artistic mediums — acrylic, mixed media, watercolor, pencil, and gouache — have captured the hearts of countless artists worldwide, including my own heart. Their distinct characteristics, creative potential, and ability to evoke emotions and narratives make them powerful tools for artistic expression. Please check out my Favorite Art Supplies list and comment below your favorite supplies!
Whether you are drawn to the vibrant colors of acrylics, the multidimensional possibilities of mixed media, the ethereal beauty of watercolor, the precise detailing of pencils, or the boldness of gouache, each medium offers a unique journey of artistic exploration. So, pick up your preferred medium, let your creativity flow, and embark on a captivating artistic adventure.
Not sure which artistic medium matches your art style? Take this quick quiz to better understand your art style!
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a hot topic in recent years, with its applications ranging from self-driving cars to natural language processing. However, AI is not just limited to practical applications – it is also being used in the field of art, leading to the emergence of AI art. AI art is created using algorithms and machine learning techniques, and is becoming increasingly popular among artists and art enthusiasts. But what does AI art mean for traditional artists, and how will it impact the art world?
How do you make AI art?
First, it’s important to understand how artificial intelligence art is created. AI art comes from feeding an algorithm with a dataset of images or other visual information. Then, machine learning algorithms generate new images based on that dataset. These images can be completely abstract or can be based on specific styles or genres. For example, an algorithm can be trained to generate new images in the style of Impressionism or Cubism. My own personal style is very similar to Impressionism, though I prefer traditional methods to AI. Check out my gallery here.
Meules by Claude Monet is a great example of the Impressionism style with small, visible brushstrokes that provide the “bare impression of form.”
AI art is not limited to still images – it can also be used to create animations, videos, and even music. One example of AI art is the deep dream algorithm developed by Google. This algorithm creates surreal and dreamlike images by analyzing and enhancing patterns in existing images. Another example is the artwork created by Mario Klingemann, who uses neural networks to generate abstract and surreal images.
So, what does AI art mean for traditional artists? On the one hand, AI art presents new opportunities for artists to experiment with new techniques and styles. Artists can use AI to generate new and inspiring ideas, or to create artworks that would be difficult or impossible to produce manually. For example, an artist could use AI to research images pieced together as a reference image as the basis for a new painting or sculpture.
On the other hand, art made with artificial intelligence also presents new challenges for traditional artists. With the rise of AI art, there is a risk that traditional art forms may become less relevant or even obsolete. If AI can generate images and other artworks with a high degree of accuracy and creativity, why would people need to commission traditional artists? This is a question that many artists and art enthusiasts are grappling with.
In fact, in September 2022 the New York Times posted an article titled An A.I.-Generated Picture Won an Art Prize. Artists Aren’t Happy. The artist used Midjourney, an artificial intelligence program which transforms lines of text into hyper-realistic graphics. He won first prize — a blue ribbon — in the Colorado State Fair, under the division for “digital art/digitally manipulated photography.”
Théâtre D’opéra Spatial by Jason Allen is created using AI art technology and took first place at the Colorado State Fair.
Have we reached the end of originality?
Another challenge for traditional artists is the potential loss of creativity and originality. If an artist relies too heavily on AI to generate ideas and inspiration, their work may become formulaic and predictable. There is also a risk that AI-generated artworks may become too similar to each other, leading to a lack of diversity and innovation in the art world.
Despite these challenges, many traditional artists are embracing artificial intelligence art as a new tool in their creative arsenal. Some artists use AI to generate new ideas and inspirations, while others are using AI to enhance their existing artworks. For example, an artist could use AI to analyze the colors and patterns in their paintings and then use that data to create a new series of paintings with a similar aesthetic.
AI Art is Here to Stay
In conclusion, artificial intelligence art is a new and exciting field that is rapidly growing and evolving. While it presents new opportunities and challenges for traditional artists, it is clear that AI art is here to stay. Whether traditional artists choose to embrace AI as a tool for creativity or view it as a menace and threat to their livelihoods, there is no doubt that AI will have a significant impact on the art world in the years to come.
Tips for Writing an Artist Statement and Effectively Using Words to Describe Art
Desk Check by Brianna Eisman As someone who moves rather frequently I document my travels with what I like to call a “Desk Check.” I will draw, paint, photograph, and ultimately document everything on my desk at a certain point in time. This type of artwork displays an intimate snapshot into my life.
Table of Contents
What is an artist statement? What are the best ways to write a strong artist statement? How do famous artists describe their art? What are some of the best words to describe art? Conclusion
I love the process of creating art. I love the brainstorming session with terrible stick figure drawings, I love the ‘practice stage’ of drawing the same thing over and over again, and I love the final design. Despite the tedious planning stages, I love how those small wobbly drawings in your sketchbook can come to life in a real masterpiece of art.
Gesture Figure Drawings by Brianna Eisman Gesture drawings are quick studies of the human form and one of the easiest ways to practice your line work and accurately sketching figures. ~ After visiting the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, I sketched a few people sitting around the fountain. I used my brown paper sketchbook to create a mid-tone base, a black pen for shadows, and a white pen for highlights. Not only did these gesture drawings improve my understanding of the human form, but I was able to capture light in a quick and cool manner.
You know what the art means to you, but how do you describe it to others? Also, where do you find the words to describe art, something so subjective and intangible?
You can Google ‘Words to Describe Art.’ This Google search returns an overabundance of thesauruses and general terms.
This Google Search shows the results for the search “words to describe art” which include terms like aesthetic, abstract, mural, and contemporary.
While these words are indeed artistically inclined, you want words specific to your artwork, medium, and style. What you need are solid, real tips for writing an artist statement; you want to use the best words to describe art.
What is an artist statement?
“[An artist statement is a] piece of writing by you that helps the audience access or understand your artistic work.”
Basically, an artist statement is a formal way of using words to describe art. Essentially, it is a way for you, the artist, to express the message you are trying to convey visually.
Many of these words to describe art are generally used for social media and website promotion, galleries, exhibitions, grant applications, teaching position applications, and fellowships.
Generally, I write and rewrite my artist statements on a consistent basis with my social media posting schedule. Please check out my social media to see how I describe my own art.
What are the best ways to write a strong artist statement?
Writing an artist statement is a more complex process than simply using random words to describe art. First, write in first person POV, remember to keep your audience in mind while writing, and follow the acronym K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid). Lastly, I included some good questions to think about when brainstorming your artist statement.
Marker Test (Earth Sucks) by Brianna Eisman About once a year I set aside a page in my sketchbook, or bullet journal, to do a marker test. First, I go through every pen I own including Sharpies, highlighters, Bic Permanent Markers, Crayola markers, Stabilo pens, Expo dry erase markers and everything in between. I document the quality and determine whether to keep or toss the utensil. It’s easy to collect art materials, especially when you’re like me and switch mediums regularly. It is important to know that when I reach for a certain pen or marker, it’s going to work the way I want it to. I do keep a page at the back of my sketchbook open for testing mediums, but it’s an important part of the process of creating art to go with the flow and just draw.
Write in First Person Point-of-View
Structurally, the SAIC recommends to write the artist statement in first person. This advice contrasts artist biographies which are typically written in third person.
For instance, you can say “I created this work to represent…” and “my mother influenced this…”. These examples work well because they help define an intimate connection between the art and the viewer.
Typically, you don’t personally know the viewer, so establishing personalized meaning can add substance to your art. Supporting the connections between the viewer and the artwork is vital in helping people really understand your work.
Tension by Brianna Eisman As art students, we were tasked with creating a work of art, recycling brown paper bags, and expressing ‘tension.’ In the midst of high school drama and stressful testing seasons, I created this mixed media drawing of a woman silently screaming and pulling at her hair, which is made of delicate paper.
Learn to Keep your Audience in Mind
Remember your audience. Who did you create this artwork for? What type of people would you imagine in the gallery looking at this artwork? Who would buy this painting?
The artist statement is sometimes published on social media platforms or printed next to the painting in a gallery. You may be writing to someone who has never held a paintbrush in their life, so keep these thoughts in mind when writing an artist statement. Carefully choose words to describe art that make sense to your audience.
Some words to describe art are different for artists versus non artists. For example, saying a work is impressionistic could mean in reference to the impressionism painting style of the 19th century. In contrast, impressionistic could represent the work’s capability in leaving an impression, or a lasting memory, on the viewer.
Learning art history is a great method to improve your art lingo. For instance, maybe learn how the difference between modern and contemporary, and how in the art world, they are not synonymous. If you are curious about which art style best matches your artwork, check out this quiz!
“The terms ‘modern art’ and ‘contemporary art’ are easily confused, but each refers to its own distinct period in art history,” according to Rosie Lesso of The Collector
The specialized art jargon, referred to as “art speak,” is great for the critique, though try to avoid it for the artist statement.
The KISS Method: Keep it Simple, Stupid
Basically, try to be concise, straightforward, and as clear as you can. A good rule of thumb is to avoid using too many complex words to describe art, and stick to the basics like colors, shapes, and simple patterns.
If you are optimizing your artwork for digital marketing purposes, sometimes simply describing the art is better than describing the meaning or the feeling. Using artistic keywords like ROY G. BIV colors and shapes. For more simple color theory tips, check out this blog post written by me: Color Knowledge Tips That Will Make You a Better Artist
Also following SEO guidelines may provide good results.
Stylized Poppies by Brianna Eisman This sketchbook spread features a stylized pattern of colorful poppy flowers. The garden of flowers includes leaves of green, yellow and peach. The flowers are yellow with blue stems. The drawing as a whole has a whimsical and playful feel with a bright color scheme, polka dots and organic squiggle shapes, and blobs of seemingly random colors.
Brainstorming Ideas
Next, find important questions to ask throughout the brainstorming process. Your answers to these questions should include words to describe art and how you created the art.
What are the key ideas, issues, struggles, and goals within your work?
Does your work have a thematic focus (goals, purposes, intentions, and explorations)?
What is the content of work, including themes, ideas, and subject matter?
How were you influenced culturally, historically, theoretically, artistically, personally, and biographically?
Who is your audience? Who will be looking at your work? What do you imagine they feel when viewing it?
How would your audience use words to describe art?
How did you create the work? What materials, processes, traditions, and styles did you use in your work?
Can you use your senses to describe the art? What does the work look, sound or feel (impasto) like?
How can you make your art work easier to understand?
Finally, have a friend or teacher review your artist statement when you finish writing it. You may think the statement makes sense, but it may not be clear to someone who hasn’t spent hours working on the artwork.
How do famous artists describe their art?
The Masters
Edvard Munch
Many famous artists write artist statements describing their masterful artwork. Some are available in museums, some are available online.
For instance, Edvard Munch’s The Screamhas a vivid artist statement full of life and emotion, similar to the visuals seen in the work itself. The artist chose relatively simple words to describe art, but written with dashes, like parsed thoughts coursing through the artist’s head.
The Scream by Edvard Munch I was walking along a path with two friends – the sun was setting – suddenly the sky turned blood red – I paused, feeling exhausted, and leaned on the fence – there were blood and tongues of fire above the blue-black fjord and the city – my friends walked on, and I stood there trembling with anxiety – and I sensed an infinite scream passing through nature.
Jackson pollock
Jackson Pollock remains a fantastic and famous artist, despite criticism for his work’s abstracted and childish features.
Convergence by Jackson Pollock I want to express my feelings rather than illustrate them. It doesn’t matter how the paint is put on, as long as something is said. On the floor, I am more at ease. I feel nearer, more part of the painting, since this way I can walk around it, work from the four sides and literally be in the painting. When I’m painting, I’m not aware of what I’m doing. It’s only after a get-acquainted period that I see what I’ve been about. I’ve no fears about making changes for the painting has a life of its own.
Louise bourgeois
Next, Louise Bourgeois’s massive spider sculptures are really freaking cool and worth sharing. She started creating these steel structures in the 1990s, contrasting her previous styles. The words she chose to describe art explain the metaphorical allegory behind the sculpture.
Spider by Louise Bourgeois I’ve drawn my whole life. My parents were in the tapestry restoration business, and as a young girl, I would draw in the missing parts of the tapestry that needed to be re-woven. My ability to draw made me indispensable to my parents. I came from a family of repairers. The spider is a repairer. If you bash into the web of a spider, she doesn’t get mad. She weaves and repairs it. ‘The Spider’ is an ode to my mother. She was my best friend. Like a spider, my mother was a weaver. . . Like spiders, my mother was very clever. Spiders are friendly presences that eat mosquitoes. So, spiders are helpful and protective, just like my mother.
Many of these masters use words to describe art with passion, flame, and emotion. Notice how they use first person POV, relatively simple diction, and still manage to communicate what the art is about and what it means to them.
Underrated Artists
I want to include some artist statements of underrated artists as well. I’ve met many talented and creative individuals, and I would like to share their art and artist statements in this section.
AUGUST LAMM
August Lamm is an incredible portrait artist, and I’m very excited to share her artwork. She typically uses ink and oil paints. In this piece, I especially love the use of complementary colors in the man’s face, the contrast of detail versus an almost unfinished impressionistic appearance, and of course, the simplicity of the artist statement. It’s very painterly and I love it. Be sure to check out more of August’s works on her Instagram!
The artist statement included in this painting is short and simple compared to others in this article. Regardless of length, it is powerful and emotional and allows the viewer to connect with the artist, and maybe even the subject, on a more intimate level.
Murray by August Lamm Sometimes you paint over an old painting and wonder why you waited so long to let go
ERIKA WILSON
I first discovered Erika Wilson at a local arts market. Her work was captivating and I wanted to learn more about this incredible artist. Erika provided two artist statements, proving her knowledge of writing to a certain audience.
In the first artist statement, notice the purpose is primarily for social media, and make sure to follow her Instagram! Erika uses first person POV and includes the dimensions and mediums used in the work. She also includes emojis and middle dots between paragraphs, a common spacing technique for Instagram, showing that she knows her audience.
There Is Still Time by Erika Wilson So often I am eager for the future, reminiscent of the past, and losing track of the time in between. Feeling afraid or anxious that I don’t have time for everything. The weighty pressure of needing to make each day count. . This painting reminds me that a day is LONG when we are present for it, and immeasurably valuable regardless of what I do during it. Some days are filled with intentional time and mindfulness, some days I am meaninglessly busy and pointlessly stressed out, and some days I indulge in doing nothing at all. All are good days, and there is still time ✨️ . . . “There is Still Time” 22″ x 28″ acrylic on canvas Available
The next artist statement is noticeably more professional. In particular, notice how Erika adapted the bullet points into dashes and uses clear spacing, giving a cleaner appearance, similar to a resume. Erika’s use of words to describe art discuss her inspiration, techniques, and purpose in under 100 words. It’s simple, effective, and one of the best artist statements I’ve seen.
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Hello! I’m Erika Wilson, a visual artist based in Salt Lake City, UT.
My work is deeply inspired by natural wilderness and the lush, strange, beauty of the botanical world. Equally, my artwork draws from cultivated nature found in urban spaces: gardens, houseplants, and roadside scrub alike.
I use vibrant color and dramatic line to create imagery that provokes wonderment, engages curiosity, and invites viewers to experience their senses unreservedly.
At its foundation, my artwork is a celebration of our intimate connection to nature, in the many forms we may find it, no matter how ordinary or unusual.
Kyle and I actually went to the same arts high school. We both studied Visual Arts and I’m really proud to see how he has grown as an artist. Please go follow his Instagram account here!
Kyle has a stunning impasto painting technique that really gives life to contrasting flat cartoon-like characters. His works are animated and fun to look at, as well as visually interesting.
Kyle’s artist statement uses first person POV to describe his thoughts and organizes the paragraphs increasing in size. He also continues to deliver contrasting elements. The whimsical and colorful style conveys comfort, in this “cozy painting,” unlike the realities in the life of a western cowboy, portrayed in the serious face and stature of the man.
Campfire Cowboy by Kyle Drury The Campfire Cowboy is part of a series of paintings I call Worsterns. I’m thinking about the bad things that could and maybe should have happened to old time cowboys. They’re dramatic paintings of cowboys falling victim to the dangers of the wild west. The danger is less obvious in Campfire Cowboy. It’s a cozy painting of a well-fed fella and his horse relaxing and drinking coffee by the fire. Its more about having a feeling that something bad is about to happen instead of witnessing it firsthand.
JULIA HILL
I found Julia’s artwork on Instagram and I was awestruck. Definitely make sure to give her a follow here! She uses fine pens to create stunning realistic landscape drawings.
Her artist statement is also written in first person POV and describes her medium of choice, thoughts behind her style and technique, and how her personal background impacts her artwork. The words to describe art express her talent and experience with the medium, her knowledge of principals and elements of design, and the contextual origin of the content.
Truly, Julia’s words describe the artwork better than I could ever analyze it. This is a perfect example of the importance of an artist statement and how it can compliment the visual artistry of the work.
Holdsworth House – A Place in Time by Julia Hill As an Illustrator, I predominantly use fine liners to create my images. I use 0.03, 0.05 and 0.1 black uni pens. I find drawing using a single black line extremely therapeutic and somewhat fascinating. I am driven by the constant complexities of creating depth, texture, light and shadow within my work using only a single black line. Holdsworth House presented itself to me as a challenge, to combine the solidity of a beautiful structure and the softness of the environment it sits within. Nature, the environment, wildlife and botanicals form the basis of all of my personal work. The natural environment has held a particular fascination for me since I was a child. The intricacy of my drawing allows me to connect to each subject on a much deeper level. ‘Seeing’ the intricacy within a form and recreating it with a mix of lines, dots and patterns to create an overall visual effect. My work is not just a simple depiction of the subject I have chosen, but rather a visual expression of my emotional and spiritual connection to what I am drawing.
For more examples of my personal artist statements, please check out my social media platforms.
What are some of the best words to describe art?
In this article we defined an artist statement, discovered tips to effectively use words to describe art, and reviewed examples of artist statements in the wild.
In this final section, we will recall the elements and principles of art and design. These are the building blocks of aesthetically pleasing work, and basic references to use when describing your own art.
To learn more about building blocks of art, and starting out as an artist, please check out the following articles:
Color Knowledge Tips That Will Make You a Better Artist5 Easy Drawing Tips For Beginners and Intermediate Artists
The list of elements and principles of art are generally a good place to start when looking for words to describe art. Basically, there are six elements of art and eight principles of art.
The Basic Elements of Art and Design
Color
Generally associated with hue, value, and intensity, color is one of my personal favorite elements of art.
I have also elaborated on color theory in the article here.
Shape
Generally associated with height and width, shape can be organic and/or geometric.
Form
I associate this element with volume, height, width, depth.
It can be two dimensional or three dimensional because it gives an illusion of value (drawing) or real value (sculpture).
Line
This element is generally associated with being implied, abstracted, parallel, or crossed.
Space
This element is generally associated with positive (subject matter) and negative (background) areas.
Space creates the illusion of depth through value.
Texture
This element is generally associated with how the art feels or looks like it feels (soft, bumpy, hard, slick, squishy, sharp, smooth).
The Elite Principles of Art and Design
Rhythm
This principle of art and design is generally associated with patterns, movement, repetition, tempo, and beat.
Harmony
This principle is generally associated with unification, familiarity, and connection.
Balance
This principle of art is generally characterized by symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial.
Contrast
This principle is generally used to highlight the focal point, or the subject, of a work of art.
Pop art is a great example of using contrasting colors, especially complementary colors (colors opposite each other on the color wheel i.e. orange and blue).
Movement
This principle is generally associated with dynamism and action and helps to guide the viewer’s eye to the focal point.
Pattern
Similar to rhythm, this principle of design is generally associated with duplication.
Proportion
Relativity is a huge part of this principle of art and design. It is also related to relationships and size.
Variety
Generally associated with diversity and interest, variety captures attention, similar to contrast.
Variety partners with unity to establish balance.
Conclusion
You can choose to describe art in any way you want, because it’s your art. You can call it ugly or nonsensical just as easily as you call it stunning and deep and impressive. Adjectives are subjective in the same way you and your artwork are subjective.
However, if you want people to understand your artwork, you may need to clearly communicate what it means. Using artistic terms helps to encourage the viewer to look past the image and think about the process, materials, backstory, and time dedicated to create the art.
50 Ways to Spend Time Alone by Brianna Eisman After I graduated college, I felt especially lonely. You go from being surrounded by many curious and exotic people to a much smaller group. And then, you realize working 9-5 means you have even less time to spend with friends. I found this list of 50 Ways to Spend Time Alone on Pinterest. I hope you can use it and learn to love spending time alone as much as I have.
In this sense, writing a clear, optimized, and creative artist statement can add value to your artwork.
Why did the artist choose the colors they did for the different parts of the work? How does the composition move the viewer’s eye around the work? Is there a focal point, a spot where the artist chose for you to look first?
There are many words to describe art, but an artist statement proves unique because it comes directly from the creator.
You, the artist, have the chance to tell the world what your art really means. You are the one to give your art value.
