Creativity Artsy Drawings by Brianna Eisman

Canva AI: How to Actually Breakthrough Creative Challenges

3 Comments / Art Advice / Brianna Eisman / February 23, 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become the ultimate game-changer, sneaking into nearly every corner of our lives—from saving lives in healthcare to making binge-worthy shows even better. One area where AI really gets to shine is in the the world of art and design. Now, I know allowing artists to use artificial intelligence is controversial, but I’ve already shared my opinions on artists using AI. This article ascertains that AI is not going away anytime soon and it’s up to artists to either adapt or be left behind.

That being said, this article will talk about one of my favorite creative platforms: Canva! The beloved design platform has taken AI’s magic and turned it into tools that make creativity feel like second nature, especially when you’ve hit the “creative wall.” Canva AI is an incredible tool for inspiration, creativity, and what I consider a positive step in artists working with AI.

*Living The High Life* b y **@Life_Of_Flower**

This article will discuss where to find Canva AI, how to use it, what it can be used for, and the broader implications of AI on society. It is also important to note that every image in this article was created using some kind of artificial intelligence technology.

Where to Find Canva AI

Canva AI is embedded directly into the Canva platform, which can be accessed through any web browser or via the Canva mobile app. Whether you’re using Canva’s free version or its premium subscription, Canva Pro, the AI tools are available to explore. Simply navigate to www.canva.com and sign in or create an account. Once inside, you’ll find many of Canva’s AI features integrated seamlessly into the design interface.

For users seeking more in-depth step-by-step guidance, Canva’s help center offers tutorials and FAQs to help you get started.

How to Use Canva AI

Canva AI is designed with simplicity and accessibility in mind, ensuring that users of all experience levels can dive right in. Here’s a quick guide on how to get started with five Canva AI tools.

Magic Resize: With this tool, you can instantly resize your designs to fit different platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. Simply create your design, click “Resize” in the top menu, and select your desired dimensions.
AI-Powered Text Suggestions: Canva AI assists with crafting headlines, captions, and even full paragraphs for your projects. Just click on the “Text” tool, and Canva will offer smart suggestions to save time and spark creativity.
Background Remover: For those looking to refine photos, the AI-powered background remover eliminates unwanted elements with a single click. This feature is particularly useful for product photography, portraits, or creating clean design elements.
Video Editing with AI: Canva’s video tools utilize AI to streamline editing processes. Features such as auto-alignment, smart transitions, and even script-to-video creation make video production approachable for everyone.
Text-to-Image AI: One of Canva AI’s standout features is its ability to generate unique images from text prompts. To use this tool, open a blank design canvas, click on “Apps” in the left-hand menu, and select “Text to Image.” Type a description of the image you want, such as “a serene beach at sunset,” and Canva will generate options for you to use in your design.

The Canva ai Image Generator

As an artist with an expansive imagination, I enjoy and use the Text-to-Image (or Image Generator) Canva AI tool the most. It’s created with DALL·E from OpenAI and converts your text into digitally created images which you can download as JPG, PNG, PDF, or GIF.

To find the Canva AI Image Generator, open up a new project and look under the “Elements” tab. There, you should see something like this image below:

Next, click the box that says “Generate your own” and let your imagination run free! From purple dinosaurs to a rainbow waterfall with flying sharks, your imagination (and Canva’s AI Product Terms⁠ and Acceptable Use Policy) are the only limits to your creativity.

“purple dinosaur”

“rainbow waterfall with flying sharks”

“flying sharks in a jurassic world where everything is the wrong color”

Plus, if only one image is close to what you’re looking for, but not exactly, you can click on the three dots at the top of the image and “generate more like this.” This function offers 4 more images similar in style or content to the chosen image, and can help narrow your search for something that aligns closer to your intended creation.

What You Can Use Canva AI For

Canva AI opens up a world of possibilities for users across industries and interests. The tools are extremely versatile and can be used in many really cool ways.

Social Media Content: From Instagram posts to TikTok videos, Canva AI helps create eye-catching content that aligns with your brand.

Marketing Materials: Design professional brochures, flyers, and email templates that stand out from the crowd.

Educational Resources: Teachers and students can use Canva AI to craft presentations, worksheets, and infographics that make learning engaging.

Event Invitations: Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or corporate event, Canva AI simplifies the process of creating beautiful invitations.

Branding: Small businesses and entrepreneurs can design logos, business cards, and merchandise with ease.

Custom Projects: From vision boards to art projects, you can turn your Canva AI creations into reality that reflect your own style. This Amazon store produces custom canvas prints of any image you want, even an AI one.

Artist and blogger, Tristina Dietz Elmes, created the following reference image using Canva AI, then drew it using her own artistry and mediums. I think this is a great way to use Canva AI to create art and expand your drawing and painting skills.

Canva AI to drawing -Tristina Dietz Elmes

The Effects of AI on the World

So far you’re thinking, “Wow! This is such a cool and unique tool, why would anyone NOT want to use it?!” And to an extent, I agree with you. AI technology removes artistic barriers, improves productivity, and makes some really wacky looking images.

But, like almost everything nowadays, it has negative impacts worth noting. Using AI to create or imitate art imposes ethical concerns, can lessen opportunities for artists, and actually uses a lot of energy to produce. Personally, I think the pros outweigh the cons, but I try my best to use AI intentionally and with clear and concise purpose.

The good: Democratization of Creativity

Traditionally, professional design tools require specialized skills and training. Canva AI removes these barriers, enabling anyone with an idea to bring it to life. This democratization empowers individuals and small businesses to compete in spaces previously dominated by larger organizations with bigger budgets.

Graphic designer Navneet C. from the Art Insider explains this concept well in their statement on AI art:

“I think AI is a liberation of creativity for designers/artists. Creativity is no longer in service of economic activity but becomes a pure form of self-entertainment and self-expression. This represents two levels of purity: using AI to replace the utilitarian attributes of designers, allowing creativity to return to its essence, and using AI to rediscover the joy of experimentation and play in visual effects.”

The Good: Enhanced Productivity

AI tools save time by automating repetitive tasks. For instance, features like Magic Resize and AI-powered text generation allow users to focus on the creative aspects of their projects rather than tedious formatting. I personally have no quarrel with this argument; more efficient tools means more time to be creative. Period.

The Bad: stealing creativity

As AI tools become more advanced, they bring both exciting possibilities and important ethical considerations. While they enhance creativity and streamline workflows, they also introduce challenges such as copyright concerns and the potential for misuse.

One major issue is intellectual property rights. AI-generated content, including images and text, can sometimes be too similar to existing works, raising questions about originality and ownership. Without clear guidelines, artists and content creators may find their work unintentionally replicated or appropriated. Artists may also find themselves unknowingly competing with art produced using AI. In this article about AI art competitions, Jason Allen won first prize for his work titled Théâtre D’opéra Spatial under the category of digital art/digitally manipulated photography.

The Bad: Misinformation and Fake News

Misinformation is a growing concern, especially with the accuracy progression of AI images. AI can generate realistic yet misleading content, blurring the line between fact and fiction. This is especially problematic in media, marketing, and education, where accuracy is crucial.

This image received over 10,000 likes on Instagram with a caption describing a town filled with cabbage kids.

It is important to know the signs that something may be created using AI technology.

Inconsistent or Unnatural Details – AI-generated images and videos often have strange distortions, like extra fingers, warped backgrounds, or mismatched lighting. Similarly, AI-written text may sound overly polished, vague, or repetitive.
Lack of Credible Sources – Misinformation posts often make bold claims without linking to reputable sources. If a post presents shocking or controversial information, double-check by searching for confirmation from trusted news outlets.
Emotionally Manipulative Language – AI-generated misinformation is often designed to provoke strong emotions like fear, anger, or excitement. If a post seems exaggerated or sensationalized, it may be crafted to mislead or go viral.
Reverse Image or Fact Checks Don’t Match – Use tools like Google Reverse Image Search or fact-checking websites (Snopes, FactCheck.org) to verify suspicious images and claims. If an image appears elsewhere with a different context, it may be AI-generated or misleading.
Unusual Engagement Patterns – Misinformation posts often have tons of engagement from bots—look for accounts with no profile pictures, generic usernames, or comments that seem repetitive. If a post suddenly gains massive traction with little credible discussion, it’s worth questioning its authenticity.

I will admit to using AI for content creation purposes here at ArtsyDrawings.com. However, I try my best to produce and communicate the most accurate information. I’ve experienced times where AI will write out the wrong steps for painting or when it will explain an arbitrary concept using a questionable artist reference. It’s important to use technology like this, but not to trust it 100%.

To address these challenges, platforms like Canva must establish strong ethical frameworks. This includes implementing safeguards such as content verification tools, clear usage policies, and educational resources to promote responsible AI use. By doing so, they can ensure that innovation remains ethical and beneficial for all users.

Workforce Transformation

As AI becomes more integrated into creative industries, traditional roles may evolve. While some fear job displacement, others argue that AI tools can serve as collaborators, augmenting human creativity rather than replacing it. The democratization of creativity imposes certain threats to artists, especially those artwork can be replicated or imitated using AI resources. Graphic designers, digital artists, and branding directors may need to adjust their strategy to reflect these changes in technology and keep up with the curve.

As an artist myself who supports the livelihood of other artists, I feel conflicted by the underlying surplus of those who can produce art. When you can make a logo and brand for your company in a free app, why would you ever hire an artist? What benefits does an artist bring to the table? Can an artist be replaced with technology?

Environmental Impact

Lastly, AI technologies require significant computational power, which contributes to energy consumption. Companies like Canva are increasingly exploring sustainable practices to minimize their carbon footprint. It’s ironic we can create stunning landscapes using technology that destroys the real ones.

Remember, it’s not up to you alone to save the planet. Until those in power support more sustainable technology, we have to work with what we have to create, learn, and find solutions.

*Tropical Beach House* by **@Hi2uandwelcome**

Conclusion

Canva AI represents a leap forward in making design accessible, efficient, and fun. Its tools empower individuals and businesses alike to create professional-grade content without requiring extensive training or resources. As AI continues to shape the way we work and create, it’s essential to balance innovation with responsibility, ensuring that these technologies benefit society as a whole. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a complete novice, Canva AI invites you to explore, experiment, and redefine what’s possible in the realm of creativity.

As previously discussed at the beginning of this article, and in my other article about AI art, this topic about artificial intelligence and art is controversial.

Should artists be allowed to use AI?

Can AI truly create art?

How will AI impact the role of artists?

What ethical concerns are there regarding AI-generated art?

How can artists utilize AI as a tool to enhance their creativity?

What are the potential legal issues surrounding copyright and ownership of AI-generated art?

Well, I’m here to tell you that I do not know the answer to any of these questions. As someone who practices and has a passion for art, artists, and the art community, I of course have sympathy for artists who have lost opportunities due to the rise of AI technology. However, change in inevitable in any industry. Just in the past few years we have seen technology eliminate old jobs and create new jobs. Artificial intelligence is absolutely daunting, but it’s here to stay.

The truth of the matter is that if you are “afraid” of AI, then you maybe haven’t leveraged it to its fullest potential.

Canva AI: How to Actually Breakthrough Creative Challenges Read More »

How to Avoid Burnout: 13 Tips from A Tired Artist

6 Comments / Art Advice / Brianna Eisman / October 23, 2024

Sometimes the ideas flood out and I can create painting after painting, each more whimsical than the last. As much as I enjoy these spurts of creativity, when they pass I tend to get burned out. I’ve been an artist for many years and I know I will always love it, but I’m only human. I get tired and frustrated when the art doesn’t turn out the way I want it to and there are a lot of drawings and paintings I choose not to share, out of fear of not being good enough.

So, how do I get out of the creative funk? How do I avoid burnout as a tired artist?

Below I’ve listed 13 tips for how I avoid burnout, from setting healthy boundaries to creating art just for myself. Please remember that these tips to avoid burnout are my suggestions and opinions. Everyone has different methods for how they avoid burnout, and I implore you to use what works best for you and your lifestyle.

*How to Avoid Burnout* by **Brianna Eisman**

Tip #1: Avoid Burnout by Scheduling Out “Art Time”

My first tip to avoid burnout is to maintain a schedule. Whether your schedule is ambiguous like sketching once a day or once a week, or crafting a structured calendar specifically for your creative endeavors, its important to include your art into your routine.

street view drawing ideas daily sketch by maria — *Yellow Street Daily Sketch* by **Maria**

For me, I keep a separate Google Calendar for everything involved in this website, ArtsyDrawings.com. I plan out my social media posts, articles, monthly newsletter, bullet journaling time, and sketchbook time. Of course, I wish I was more diligent in meeting each of the goals I set for myself, but sometimes life happens and interrupts my art time, and that’s okay.

Setting realistic goals, like working on a project once a week, helps break down large projects into manageable tasks. This helps me to stay motivated without feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. Likewise, maintaining a consistent schedule helps me manage my time better and reduces the chances of overworking and spending all my creative juices in one sitting.

Tip #2: Avoid Burnout by Organizing your Time and Space

Honestly, I’m surprised every artist isn’t tested for ADHD. I work on many different projects at the same time, sometimes with different mediums and in different parts of the house. So, tip #2 to avoid burnout is to stay organized!

Organization can be achieved through many different methods. Cleaning frequently, using sorting bins for different materials and mediums, and labeling everything with a label maker are some of my favorite ways to keep myself organized. I think the best way to stay organized mentally is to choose either multiple projects in one location or one project in multiple locations.

For example, when I bullet journal I select the materials I want to use for the journaling pages and I’ll take those materials wherever I want to work. For me, bullet journaling is a timely process that I can take with me wherever I go; sometimes I’ll work on it at a coffee shop or out on the porch on a nice day. Regardless, I’m choosing one project in multiple locations.

In contrast, when I paint I like to keep everything in one place next to my supplies and artist easel. Acrylic paint dries out pretty fast so once I create the paint palette I like to maximize the material. This means I stay in one place, but work on many different projects at once.

Staying organized physically and mentally helps reduce stress and allows me to focus on the art in front of me. When I know where my materials are located and have my workspace clear, its easier for me to work when creativity strikes.

Tip #3: Make Art Fun Again

I think sometimes artists get caught up in the business and outside expectations that we forget why we started drawing in the first place. Art is a way for people to express themselves and enjoy the process of creating something new. So, how can you find that passionate fire again after burnout?

make art fun again practice your skill white you wait for inspiration

Below I’ve compiled a list of different activities I like to do when I’m burned out of formal paintings and drawings. These activities help inspire me and get me back into the creative groove.

Practice mark making
Walk around a craft store
Create holiday or birthday cards
Paint a wooden figurine
Create a diamond painting
Paint ceramic plant pots
Go to a local arts market
Create a scrapbook mood board
Test your pens and markers
Get inspired on Pinterest

Allow yourself to create without deadlines or expectations. Make art just because you love it.

Tip #4: Avoid Burnout by Taking Regular Breaks

Just like school or work, your art requires time and energy. When you overexert yourself painting or drawing, sometimes it can lead to burnout. To help avoid reaching this breaking point, make sure you are taking regular breaks. Step away, take a walk, or engage in activities that relax you.

While this step is simple, it’s easy to forget, especially when you get really deep into the project. This tip goes hand-in-hand with Tip #1: Avoid Burnout by Scheduling Out “Art Time.”

Tip #5: Avoid Burnout with a Sketchbook

When you keep a sketchbook or journal it allows you space to write down thoughts, ideas, and feelings that can help declutter your mind promote creativity outside of finished pieces. This tip is important whether you are currently burned out, approaching burnout, or actively creating art.

I was introduced to regularly drawing and sketching in a journal/sketchbook in middle school, and I’m happy it’s stuck with me. Aside from jotting down quick ideas and sketches, keeping a sketchbook is a great tool to maintain your creativity. I keep a few different sketchbooks for different reasons:

Bullet Journal – My bullet journal is a formal sketchbook structured by month. Each month I choose a color scheme and theme and create tracking pages for my habits, moods, and special moments from that month. For example, I have pages for my phone use, music I listened to recently, seasonal produce, and positive events that occurred throughout the month.
Private Sketchbook – This is the sketchbook I don’t show anyone, at least for a few years. I started the sketchbook with the intention of keeping it private, so the drawings are bad and weird and wonky, and that’s okay. This journal erases the expectation of making “good” art and focuses on simply creating and improving my line work, color schemes, and overall creativity.
Public Sketchbook – This sketchbook is the exact opposite of the above mentioned “private sketchbook.” I started it with the intention to share it publicly and to create beautiful, finalized works of art. If I mess up or don’t like the way the drawing is going, I’ll draw or paint over it. My idea for this sketchbook is to be able to bring it to art markets with me as a easy way to show my portfolio and range.

Gantt chart showing sketchbook use over time — *Sketchbook Timelines* by **Brianna Eisman**

Tip #6: Avoid Burnout by Celebrating Small Wins

When you’re learning to draw it’s easy to compare your work to others, or even compare it to the image you had in your head. Don’t get yourself down on what you can’t do, you have to focus on celebrating the small wins. You won’t become a great artist overnight, it takes a lot of bad drawings and it’s frustrating.

I remember this one portrait painting in art school that I kept painting the face over and over again because I just couldn’t get it right. The acrylic paint was so thick that if you held the canvas up to the light, no light would shine through to the back. This was one of my first experiences with artistic burnout. I hated working on this painting and dreaded going to the class. So, one day I got so frustrated that I took Cadmium Red paint and blocked out the portrait’s face with a big red blob. A few different things transpired:

I shocked myself and remembered that I choose to make art because it makes me happy and puts me in control.
I stopped working on the portrait’s face and focused on other aspects of the painting like the hands, dress, and background. Improving these associated pieces helped improve the painting as a whole.
I gave myself a clean slate to start over on the face and it worked. I was able to repaint the face without the original disproportionate sketch peeking through.

These were three small victories that contributed to finishing the painting. Honestly, I’m not sure where that painting ended up. But, I’m glad I was able to turn my artistic burnout and frustrations into positives. The acknowledgement of small wins help you stay motivated and help avoid burnout.

Tip #7: Avoid Burnout by Seeking Inspiration

Being creative doesn’t necessarily mean making art, there are many ways to be creative.

When burnout strikes, instead of forcing yourself to create, try seeking inspiration through nature, local arts markets and galleries, or connecting with fellow artists. If you’re unable to go outside, scrolling through online art platforms like Pexels, Doodle Addicts, and RedBubble can provide a much-needed boost.

I also enjoy using my connections on social media for inspiration. I’ll do a deep dive into a hashtag I like to find similar artists or scroll the explore page until I find something that stands out to me. Inspiration is all around you, but its up to you to allow yourself to be inspired by it.

Tip #8: Avoid Burnout by Experimenting

Experimenting with different mediums can lead to new ideas.

Maybe your problem isn’t your creativity, but rather that you’ve been working with the same material or medium for too long. I know I go through cycles of painting, drawing and photography. Basically, when I get bored of the one medium, I’ll switch to another, avoiding burnout.

My personal favorite mediums are typically acrylic paint and drawing markers, but I do love to switch things up. I have a box labeled “Misc. Art Supplies” for stuff like henna, ribbons, embroidery floss, beads, tape, magnets, felt, glitter and all sorts of different things. When I’m burned out, or trying to avoid burnout, I’ll trifle through this box and see if anything stands out.

how to avoid burnout as a tired artist — Photo by **Jure Širić**

Tip #9: Avoid Burnout by Knowing When to Say “No”

You may be at the point in your art career where you are accepting commissions, paid and unpaid. It’s important to know yourself and your limits when accepting commissions. Rushing your art can significantly impact the quality of it. Knowing your abilities and your boundaries can help you avoid burnout.

It’s important to set healthy boundaries and learn to say no to projects or commitments that will stretch you too thin or compromise your creative time.

Tip #10: Avoid Burnout by Hiding your Art

After working a piece for while, you no longer see the work as a whole, rather individual parts that still require work. So, the next time you decide to take a break, move the piece somewhere you won’t be able to see it on a regular basis. For good measure you can also turn the piece upside down.

Tip #4: How to Avoid Burnout by Taking Regular Breaks talked about taking regular breaks to help you recharge and reset your eyes when making art. Tip #10: Hide Your Art is about hiding your art to further help reset your eyes.

When I work on a painting for multiple hours, I have to take a longer break at some point. During the time I’m not painting (could be days, could be weeks) the piece is hidden away in my storage closet. When I eventually resume painting, it’s new again and I can see things I didn’t notice before.

This practice helps you avoid burnout by reinvigorating your art with new perspective and energy.

Tip #11: Avoid Burnout by Prioritizing your Physical Health

This tip is pretty straight forward, but it needs to be said. You are the machine behind the products, and if the machine breaks no products are made. It’s important to prioritize your health above your art. Northwestern defines physical wellness as “recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep, as well as preventing illness and injury or managing chronic health conditions.”

Get enough sleep and recharge
Exercise regularly
Stay hydrated
Create well-balanced and healthy eating habits
Seek medical care when needed

Tip #12: Avoid Burnout by Engaging with the Art Community

Whether you are a sculptor, painter, or graphic designer, art is subjectively lonely. The practice is typically done by yourself and reflects your personal experiences, expressions, and style. I’ve mentioned before in this article about how you can help to avoid burnout by visiting museums, galleries, and arts markets. These activities are a great way to connect with the art community.

Connecting with others who share your passion helps you grow. One of the easiest ways you can connect with others is on the internet. I frequent r/ArtistLounge on Reddit. This group posts most anything art like progress photos asking for critiques, art business questions, recommendations for art supplies, and personal troubles that other artists may share.

Engaging with other artists can provide new perspectives, lessen isolation, and make projects more fun.

You can also connect with me and my art community by joining my monthly newsletter! I send out updates about my website, recent art I’ve created, and local galleries and artsy events.

Tip #13: Avoid Burnout by Avoiding Perfectionism

Perfectionism is a spicy mix of anxiety, expectations, and procrastination. It’s something everyone deals with, no matter the industry.

As an artist, I see perfectionism at both the beginning and end of my projects. To start, I fear failing or messing up or marking the wrong mark on the page. I procrastinate or over-plan to the point that sometimes I have to tell myself “oh my goodness, just paint!!!” I see the same emotions pop up at the end of a project when I struggle with deciding when the piece is truly finished. I even debate varnishing paintings just in case I want to go back in and edit something. I’m stressing myself out when I should be enjoying making art.

Even as I write this article, I’m plagued with anxiety that I’m giving poor art advice or I’m not answering the questions the “right” way. But, that’s the thing with art, there isn’t really a “right” way.

Obviously, if you follow color theory or composition tips or imitate a certain historical style, your art is more likely to please the eye. But, at the end of the day, your art is an extension of your emotions and feelings; it’s subjective. Art focuses ideas and thoughts into shapes and colors that have depth and meaning. Ideas aren’t perfect, so why do you expect your art to be?

There’s this productivity phrase that says “Done is better than perfect.” It’s a motivator for those, like me, who struggle with perfectionism and avoiding burnout, to try and see the bigger picture. Not every piece has to be a masterpiece. When you learn to appreciate the process, and not just the result, you find deeper meaning in art.

How to Avoid Burnout: 13 Tips from A Tired Artist Read More »

My 5 Favorite Artistic Mediums: How to Paint and Draw like a Pro

Art Advice / Brianna Eisman / June 12, 2023

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.

I also created a list of my Favorite Art Supplies, from brush pens to gouache paint.

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 green fern style plant painting in acrylic on canvas with red to white gradient background — *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 art style quiz to help you find which historical art style matches your artwork!

this is a acrylic painting on canvas of two dancers wearing black leotards and fluffy white blue tutus. The dancers are stretching while seated on a wooden bench. The style is similar to Edgar Degas. The painting describes the use of favorite artistic mediums in which acrylic is one of my favorites for its impressionistic abilities. — *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 artistic mediums 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. This piece was created for Artsydrawings.com at Artsy Drawings. The reference material is for the blog about mixed media and favorite art mediums. — *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.

This painting was done in my sketchbook in watercolor paint by Brianna Eisman for Artsy Drawings for Artsydrawings.com. The painting features my desk with my laptop open, clock, pens, sticky notes, water cup, phone, and salt lamp. The study was a quick exercise while watching a movie and I like it a lot. — *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 life arrangements, 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.

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.

Inspired by the Kiss by Gustav Klimt, this painting was created in gouache paint and features a couple embracing in a beautiful and intimate kiss. the style has many dots and lines, a stylistic technique I enjoy. This painting is done by Brianna Eisman as part of Artsy Drawings. — *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 was painted using gouache in a sketchbook. The painting was done through Artsy Drawings on artsydrawings.com. The painting shows a green dense forest with large mossy trees and lots of foliage. There is a single brown trail leading through the forest. — *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.

I bought this exact gouache paint set and I really love it!

Conclusion – Favorite Artistic Mediums

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!

My 5 Favorite Artistic Mediums: How to Paint and Draw like a Pro Read More »

Is AI art to be a valuable future or a scary end of originality?

11 Comments / Art Advice / Brianna Eisman / April 4, 2023

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.

*Appropriate Response* by **Mario Klingemann** poses the question of “how much meaning can you put into 125 letters?”

How will AI art affect traditional artists?

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.

Is AI art to be a valuable future or a scary end of originality? Read More »

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