What should I do next?
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Hey, I’m Cole, I’ve been drawing on and off for about three years since I was 12 or so, and I just recently started considering illustrating and art as a career path. I’ve listened to every single three point perspective episode, and I enjoy drawing. The thing is, I know I’m not great, and I really don’t know how to improve at this point. I can’t just make myself draw for long periods of time and practice if I don’t have anything specific to work on. I’ve taken a basics class, but now I’m sort of drawing without any real goal. If you have any thoughts, should I maybe take a basics course here at SVS and brush up on it? Or should I try an inking class? Is there something specific I need to work on? Thanks for any thoughts.
Also, here is my Instagram account to see some of my art: https://instagram.com/coleizrts?igshid=10dd9giad4onp
P.S. don’t be afraid to criticize my art. It won’t upset me.
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Hi Cole! Welcome to SVS! I would say first start with Jake Parker's class of How to Draw Everything. It really got me to see how all the technical stuff pulled together to make a drawing. Also you could try out the classes in the curriculum path on SVS. The homework makes you really learn it and expands your mind to other options. As you keep developing, ideas will come. Doesn't have to be hours at a time either. I usually get short spurts around my work and kids' homeschooling schedules. Keep going, you'll figure out the direction along the way as you grow. And there's always good sources of inspiration and support on this forum - I can attest to that! Welcome again, and keep drawing!
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@charitymunoz thanks so much! I think I’ll try How to Draw Everything at some point then.
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I totally feel ya dude. I was in your position like 2 years ago. I would say first of all find what you like to draw. If you love to do it you will inevitably find time to do it a lot! Use YouTube and the internet and SVS to your advantage! There is tons of stuff you can learn for free online now a days. But really make sure you have a solid foundation. You know understanding how to use different elements to convey emotion or a feeling, understanding composition, perspective and form. SVS has a really good curriculum for beginners. It’s great and it’s affordable! Hope this helps!
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Welcome Cole
There is no magic bullet on improving and growing as an artist. You can watch every video known to man but it all comes down to draw, draw and draw some more.
Improving is incremental so save all your tablets and pull them out every year and you will see your improvement. All an artist needs is dedication to drawing as much as they as are able.
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If I were you I would draw from observation as much as possible. Draw anything and everything you see. Draw pencils, cups, people, cars, houses, socks, literally anything. If you want a bit more focus, start filling up a sketchbook with figures, heads, hands, go wild with it. Observational skills are essential and anytime I go back to focusing on observational drawing I see improvements in my creative work as well.
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Thanks for all the suggestions guys! This have given me a lot to consider and try.
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If you’re serious about a career in illustration then start by doing some research. Find some artists that you really admire, pros or some random artists on Instagram , whether it’s their style or inking or compositions, copy them practice those things that you like. You like the way that person makes their scales try it yourself once you feel comfortable add your style to it make it yours. It’s not cheating it’s one hundred percent inspiration. Then just keep refine your style, and by all means take some classes at svs I have learned so much from these guys and gals in the past few months, they are awesome!
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Focusing on what you're learning is important, otherwise you are all over the place when there is so much to learn. I know that happens to me. It has helped me to choose a subject, like character design for example, to focus on each month. I create a plan, with courses, books for reference etc. Even with that one subject you may have to narrow it down or take more than one month. Then you want to use what you've learned, not just go on to the next subject. This has been working for me.
