7 Things Holding Back Your Art.

[@samdoesarts]

Happy new year i wish u all immense success and happiness in 2023

[@harlow_04]

first reply!!! hi sam 😌

[@unhinged2914]

thank you for your art tips. it honestly helped me progress my art than i thought was possible :]

[@iiiiiiileefftttt5808]

Thxxx!!! 🤍

[@BernadetteKhoury]

Thank you so much for this, Sam! Happy new year! ❤️❤️

[@babyblazeredstone9133]

Happy new year!!!!!

[@Dachusttin]

1. Set goal, divide it in smaller steps 2.Dont do waay too many things at once 3. Use references 4. Not perfectionist mindset 5. Prevent yourself from using waay too many brushes, find your favs 6. Dont compare yourself to others 7. Beware of what you pay attention tho

[@blinobyknovennyy]

Thank you)

[@lolozo214]

5. Round brush go brrr

[@SonixEdits1]

Bro can you give me a tip for how can I imagine things better because I can't draw from imagination at all

[@William_Nowin]

@@SonixEdits1 books filled to the brim with bird pictures helps me :)

[@hel2727]

@@SonixEdits1 if you'd like to get inspiration from other artists I recomment art station and maybe even instagram, so many talented people.

[@exowodia7505]

Happy new year to everyone reading this i hope we all get good at drawing this year

[@wb7551]

In my country its still 2022 😂

[@sammkitkat4623]

this is kool

[@samhelmyakacookiez1235]

@@wb7551 Same

[@samdoesarts]

Happy new year's eve from me!

[@Emoris]

Thank you!! Happy new year to you aswell

[@nikinseo]

I'm a 29 year old woman who just decided to start to learn art. I didn't really know what I want to do for years, but I'm aware of my interest in arts. But I felt really insecure seeing other people younger than me has such incredible talent than I am. But I realise each time I compare myself to others, I just bring myself down and not making any progress. And I tell myself it's never too late to learn anything. Wish me luck ♡

[@sophiagionis]

you've got this!!!

[@nikinseo]

@@sophiagionis oh thank you so much! I appreciate it ♡

[@sunodon]

I really wish you good luck and believe in you!

[@nikinseo]

@@sunodon thank you so much! 😭

[@justaddartobsessions]

37 and on my 3rd yr. Keep going!

[@Morastbiene]

I've rewatched this video today and honestly, it saved me from going down that "Ugh, I'll never..." path. I'm 40 now, coming from a (difficult) childhood with an art teacher who made it her mission to mock, ridicule and bully me in front of the class every time, so that even in my adulthood I couldn't even doodle without bursting into tears. About two years ago I began to (very cautiously) dabble in art and realized that I *want to* do this as a hobby and that I *want to* improve - and it's rough when you see all these young, successful and very ambitious people crank out quality content like there's no tomorrow while you're still struggling with perspective and shapes... BUT even I can see my own progress and that's why I'll keep going. Thank you for being an inspiration 🙏

[@MoodyBluesRequiem80]

I'm so proud of you! 🖤

[@Morastbiene]

​@@MoodyBluesRequiem80 Thank you for your kind reply. You couldn't know this, but it made my day a lot better. I hope your weekend is going well 🙏🥲

[@pudd1ngwii11]

I'm so sorry you had to experience that, my mother is a teacher I don't understand how there are teachers that put down their students instead of motivate them 😕

[@Morastbiene]

@@pudd1ngwii11 Thank you! I've never understood it either. Much later I realized it had nothing to do with me, but the damage was done, sadly. I'm glad your mom is one of the good ones! 🙂

[@Artofinverse]

Can I just say, it's crazy how good Sam has gotten at landscapes and backgrounds. I remember watching some of his videos a year ago and the progress is insane!

[@rogueObscura]

Look at when he zooms out at 10:10, the background look like a compressed thumbnail of a real image. Like if you cropped it for a profile picture. It's amazing.

[@Artofinverse]

@@rogueObscura Yeah it really is, I kept looking at the navigator and just thought it was his photo reference half the time lol

[@leah8894]

I gotta agree, he’s grown out of avoiding his responsibilities😂 but really tho, he’s lately been my go to for environment inspo, and his pieces recently with water have been breathtaking

[@CookiehsAndDreams]

Watching Sam just slapping colors onto his canvas being like "where is he going with this" to the picture becoming a masterpiece five seconds later never ceases to amaze me.

[@Osama-KIN_TMZ01]

That's everything though with any creativity involved. A craftsman turns an old piece of wood to a masterfully made statue, a builder starts with rough foundation and ends with a masterpiece and a chef turns a chunk of unusual ingredients into a beautiful mouth watering portion...

[@syrpentina]

Ive been creating art for decades, and the most important thing Ive found you need as an artist is to FALL IN LOVE with creating art. If you LOVE to create art it will flow organically from you: you'll forget outside pressures, let go of negative comparisons, it wont feel like a chore or burden or something to accomplish, or a failure if you dont... instead you'll naturally develop because you genuinely and passionately desire to engage in this curious and creative process you LOVE 💖

[@wenomachosia]

how many

[@sheeshu4387]

Factss

[@alexmehler6765]

staying off the internet can help with that

[@rennley_]

completely agree with this. i work on illustrations semi-regularly, but for whatever reason i’d been avoiding just basic *drawing* for months. until finally i bought myself a super small 4x6 sketchbook and just told myself to draw in it, every day if i could, or at the very least 2-3 times a week. i’ve literally done exactly that - drawing feels *good* and i had to remind myself that i loved it. i’m on day 4 and it’s honestly all i can think about lol. solid advice here 🙌

[@Lunni-toonies]

@@alexmehler6765digital artists: 👁👄👁

[@michidoesstuff]

I'm 16 and have always been told that my art was nice and that i should pursue a career in it. I love art and actually do want to pursue it, but I've compared myself so much to other artists that I just have felt so unmotivated and kinda just think my art is bad. But after watching this video I feel better abt myself and I want to start making an effort again. Thank you for this and good luck to any artists that have art block or to new artists!

[@hellkjo]

Hi! how has your art journey been going? i hope you haven't lost your drive and you keep getting better :)

[@syzygy4365]

If it's something you love I fully suggest you do it. At least start school as an art manager. Theirs critical information that transfer over into all fields. Whether you want to become a surgeon down the road or an animator, whatever. Knowledge spills into careers but nothing prepares you better than your own imagination of what you want to achieve. That comes with practice and sacrifice. ❤

[@nawaryn8807]

I’m 15 now and I’ve always loved art but I never started practicing but now I really want to start

[@Angelinathatgirl]

Im 15 & i don't know if i should continue to do art.. I've been learning to draw for 2 years now & i compare myself to others.. I can't draw without references which most people have told me im a fake artist because of that

[@Mrmysterious-dj1ov]

Never compare yourself to others I admire and be happy for them you can improve and learn from those better then you 😊 I’m not best artist but I’m happy when someone surpasses me 🎉 it make me happy 😃 because they are learning they are becoming a better artist and that doesn’t take away from what can learn and grow. 🙂

[@LazyGibbon]

Perfectionism has made me burnout from art for multiple years. Everytime I'd see a pencil or marker I'd be reminded of the constant struggle I put myself through trying to create the perfect drawing. And everytime I look back at the drawings I used to make or show them to people, the imperfections or the things I thought I could have done better are never what they notice. Even knowing this, I still struggle hard trying to not only draw something I love but also interesting compositions or perspectives. Thanks for reminding me to take it easy on myself and for the other helpful tips :)

[@nori2773]

How does this guy manage to end my months long artblocks within 10 freaking minutes?! I just watched this and I alredy feel like grabbing a pen and drawing:D

[@Light15XV]

I got the feeling he did it to me in 2 years

[@yuni03_]

Samee

[@Nassa1333]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@dovelee4136]

Sam has helped me modivate me to draw more with just his videos. Without your videos, I wouldn’t be where I am today!❤❤❤

[@samdoesarts]

Im so glad!!! :)

[@babyblazeredstone9133]

Agreed! :)

[@ambird7591]

Same!

[@Gonnadiesomeday]

Same it helps a ton

[@Domzdream]

As a pro artist, I know human anatomy pretty well, both male and female, but unless it’s a comic book character doing action poses, I always, always, always! use reference. It’s arrogant to think one can draw better than actual nature in front of your eyes. Never be scared to ‘cheat’ . Have an amazing new years everyone, and especially you!

[@zgniot1902]

Question, how do you find the reference you're looking for? I'm always confused on how can I even find a ref for the specific pose from the specific angle I wish to draw in, might as well take me less time to try to experiment around it .. people always say 'use references!' but never really how to find those references, any tips?

[@ayaneagano6059]

@@zgniot1902 Although I’m not the original commenter, usually what I do is shoot/photograph my own references or pose a 3D model. Overall, I’d prefer a real reference, but if I can’t find it, I’ll make my own

[@Silver-Foxxo]

@@zgniot1902 I use an armature for this, personally, and then use various photos of the character I will be drawing as well

[@paulaedithilustradora]

@@zgniot1902 Since OP didn't answer, I'll. Image stock sites (They're free if you don't download the pics) and 3d models (there're 3D stock sites and its free too, if you don't download). Clip Studio haves their own 3d models too.

[@DeclanSocial]

7:25 - thank you so much for saying this. I’m starting art at the age of 19 and even though I’m still “young”, it feels like I’m so behind and that I’ll never make it. That idea really stopped me from doing much last year. I would get super motivated and confident and then next thing I know, I watch a short where it is revealed an artist I like is only 14 and I’m like dang I’ll never be that good and I’m already old. Motivation gone. So thank you for giving me this motivation to keep practicing!

[@PtyLtd100]

Bro! I know it's an old comment but you and I are the same😢😅

[@Scarlynnette]

It’s never too late!

[@Erikari]

1:47 "it could be FEET" that had me XD

[@wamengxiong0409]

Man, that should be the priority of everyone...kidding, but not at the same time

[@syzygy4365]

Right. Like do you draw them at scale or reference point. I'd love to get down the technic of using several vanishing points. My art teacher had me draw graphing points because when I drew I could never fill up the whole page. I didn't get much help past that. Just some different basic technics like texturing and shading. I learned more from. My friends then I did my art teacher. I hope the art programs have gotten better since then.

[@J3nna4]

When he said that I was instantly reminded of mort from Madagascar

[@MrArchaicDreams]

Perfectionist mindset really hinders me in every area of my life (not just art). Thanks Sam for talking about it, and resparking the motivation of this humble art baby.

[@stressedduck]

I’m also learning to draw/paint digitally and something I have to constantly remind myself about is the time it takes to finish a piece. I like watching speed paints to see the process but its valuable to realize just how sped up this process is. Go at your own pace and have fun! 😊

[@jeremiahsmith916]

What helped me learn the real degree of speeding up in speedpaints was trying the “Timelapse video” option in Procreate. Spending a whole day on a piece and then learning it’s only 1:40 of timelapse footage is a great reality check

[@GreenBlueWalkthrough]

That comes with practice, optimization and figuring out what style a piece is... Like it took me 4 years to be able to do 100x100 pixel art scenes in an evening before it took me days and my 45x45 pixel figures from around 30 minutes to around 10 minutes in the same time frame. Which the higher the detail the longer it takes so I have been experimenting with lower detail art using things that are heard for me. So yeah it takes time and effort to get fast but it's so worth it.

[@Sherry_Moon2]

Sam you're not a failure, You're the true artist which we all need most

[@polyweird]

38 here. I used to draw constantly then going to school for Graphic design killed my drive. 10 years later I finally decided to get my first tablet and man..the struggle is real. I've been working on my skills starting with little comics but artists like you inspired me to start doing a bit more illustrative works. It's so hard not to feel discouraged because there are so many free resources that I didn't have as a kid and teen and I had very little support. So thank you for making these videos. They really help a lot.

[@jocelynmontoya1029]

Using reference also helps build your visual library, and you'll find in subsequent pieces you'll retain that knowledge and be able to reference your own visual library in your head! Always always use references!

[@Naz-jc5tp]

I feel like the perfectionist mindset is one I really wish I’d known earlier. I’m actively battling that one too, and it’s so bad that I can’t even start a piece without telling myself not to care about how it looks exactly and to just do it. And the funniest thing is when I push past and just do it, the product often looks amazing and just needs tweaking later on. Artistic perfectionism is truly a thorn in our side. Just focus on creating above all else everyone :)

[@cronqvies3971]

0:35 it’s the start and you already got me I didn’t have goals before for three in digital years and six in traditional I just wanted to draw until one day I saw ayami kojimas’s art and I wanted to be like her moral of the story having a goal or goals are going to help you a lot

[@cronqvies3971]

Happy new year💖💖🥳

[@CallMeMelllow]

For the past 10 years Ive been doing art, I would question why I would never grow. But since I have become an adult, and have discovered my goal I have never been more driven to achieve it. I draw everyday now, practicing, studying, sketching in my free time. And I finally see myself getting BETTER. Its such a rewarding feeling! This next year I plan on honing in those skills and not shying away when things inevitably get tough. I cant wait to see what 2023 brings!

[@Sparrowlicious-01]

Comparing my art to my art is always fun. Thank you for mentioning this here too because honestly, it's what helped me a lot. I only really got into getting better at art and actually learning how to draw people in 2015, I'm 34 now and chronic depressions and executive dysfunction make it hard to draw sometimes. (The pandemic didn't help with this.) However, looking at my own art from the past vs now helps me a lot to see that actually I constantly improve. All in all, art is fun and as a hobbyist that's the most important thing to me.

[@terri2.0]

For someone who has only been self taught when it comes to digital art, it has been a very difficult journey for me but I feel like once I’ve finally fount my style and just been improving on it, I got better, and these tips are 100% accurate, I just wish I saw this video sooner

[@kasiduckinglabbies1810]

The perfectionist mindset is like... the top struggle I have been dealing when it comes to art... And happy new year to everyone. Hope this year will give us treats as many as possible.

[@beanie5664]

I’m someone that is constantly throwing away my art when it isn’t good enough. Hearing all of this advice definitely helps, and I’m gonna give it a go! I suppose this could even be one of my resolutions. Sam has helped so much, with so many things, I can’t thank him enough! Happy new year! ❤

[@telemi7316]

I want to thank you very much for being with us. I watch you from Uzbekistan, and at the same time I do not know English, but I understand how you explain and get the point. Sam, we LYSM💖

[@Morin0]

I've been drawing for over 13 years and outside of anatomy, my growth has always felt stagnated, sloppy, and indirect. I'm not a goal-oriented person in general (I kinda just complete responsibilities and then do what I want), so this video was EXTREMELY helpful! I've /seen/ other artists set goals for themselves but never thought of doing it for myself. Thanks so much, Sam!!!

[@xenosbreed]

The 'Set small goals' is a HUGE help for mental health too and it even applies when you're getting more advanced. I'm really digging into projects and just being like, alright, next goal is to do this one frame or one segment. And the dopamine of hitting even that small goal keeps me going. I used to have a problem cause I wasn't finishing pieces, but when I set small goals like that I'm doing much more because the encouragement keeps me focused and going for longer

[@rrageon3466]

#7 is so important. It took me 2 years to learn it, only after realizing I'd wasted 75% of the time I spent on my art. Please, PLEASE, very clearly figure out what it is that YOU want to do. It's okay to like something and not want to do it in your work, and it's okay the opposite way.

[@liz8778]

I just can't seem to figure it out at all...I feel so lost in my art and just what I want to do in general...it's hard..

[@Adranast1]

I'm not the kind to leave comments on videos. But YOU, you very much inspire me to draw more, you make me learn things I couldn't even think about, you manage to give me ideas, to make my days better with the warmth and passion you hold with words. Big shoutout to what you provide with good vibes, good humour and over all good intents. Have a good new year's eve and may 2023 be rich in art

[@douglasswillingham8849]

You’ve honestly completely changed my mindset with art, my mentality is like you and Ethan Becker at war. I’ve made so much improvement this year and I’m starting to love what I’m creating.

[@kadysousa5678]

I just came across your channel and just wanted to say how much I love it. You’re so personable and knowledgeable and enjoyable to watch. I really look forward to utilizing the tips and learning more from your videos. So thank you for being you

[@travenblanyer1126]

Yeah, i feel ya. For my long term goal i have an idea for an anime series that id like to make. Original shapes, original character designs, ships, buildings. And watching your videos has helped me a lot to manage my disorganized mental library. Thank you for your content and have a good happy new year

[@elainamakes]

Happpy new year! I am definitely doing to much right now like I’m trying to learn how to use 10 art supplies at once, also trying to learn anatomy and trying find my art style while being a perfectionist. I’m so overwhelmed and that’s making me not wanting to learn or draw. But this motivated me ton!! Thank you Sam!❤

[@samdoesarts]

One thing at a time! :)

[@elainamakes]

@@samdoesarts :]

[@azzy-551]

I wouldn't worry about developing an art style. It should come naturally as you develop techniques that align with your aesthetic preferences. 'Art style' is a pretty broad term, it encompasses all your knowledge and skills. It's not really something to work towards, it should change as you improve and gain experience. But if you really want to improve your art style, try focusing on smaller aspects of it.

[@elainamakes]

@@azzy-551 yeah I kinda had one until I gaslighted myself into hating it because it wasn’t realistic even though I like drawing cartoons 💀💀💀 So I’m the problem

[@elainamakes]

@@azzy-551 yeah I i know that in my head but I’m stupid so 😭

[@usagiracha]

Thanks for always encouraging me to keep trying to become a better artist, Sam! Have a great 2023 💙

[@laurelelasselin]

References completely changed my art. Before I started using references my art looked like a bunch of blobs of colour, now it actually looks like something 😂

[@Lameasstraficsafteyearring]

Saame

[@Shmoopyn]

I used to draw in highschool, just little sketches. I wanna get back into it now after 5 years. I’m starting from absolut beginner and man everything he said in this video is what I’m doing. Im trying to tackle everything because I feel ”pressured” when I see other beautiful art and think ”I wanna do that too now”. I wanna animate, since it been one of my big dreams. My new plan will be to start learning about faces. Thanks alot Sam!

[@SaxXy]

It's been awhile since I had watched this video, and for a few months I haven't drew so much. Lately I felt like I'm not good enough to be drawing, it's not that I'm wanting to be perfect nor am I comparing myself to anyone, it's just the deadbeat feeling of like I'm not good enough to even continue drawing. And I start to feel bad because I'm not creating things I need/want. Thank you Sam, it's nice to hear these words once again.

[@isabellap.8830]

Omg your video is so amazing and refreshing As someone who is in art school and is constantly comparing art work it is SOO refreshing to hear good advice telling people how to improve without as much burn out

[@captain_commenter8796]

As one of those guys diving headfirst into art and running into some of the problems stated in the video, I cannot thank you enough for helping me set things straight! Can’t wait to continue binging your videos for wisdom!

[@scrunkly6070]

I have improved so much this year and I can accredit most of that to you Sam, your tutorials and videos have not only inspired me to keep drawing after i almost quit in the pandemic but they have made me feel like i can actually improve and make something that I'm very proud of. Thank you for everything you do

[@redrumtheartist6275]

One year ago I saw this video, and the thumbnail made me go "wow, I would probably need at least five years to learn how to draw like that." And now today, I realized I could probably draw that now, today. Wow. I love you Sam, your channel really helped guide me.

[@cosmo.didit2]

I’m not an artist but i do sketch for storyboards…. This advice can also be applied in many other careers as well!!

[@xQuandaleDinglex]

But storyboards are ART! 😢

[@cosmo.didit2]

@@xQuandaleDinglex omg you are right. So are you saying i am an Artist

[@studyonly9994]

Story boards means?

[@yndroma]

​@@cosmo.didit2Yes

[@yndroma]

​@@studyonly9994​It's like a comic or a manga where films or animations are adapted from. It doesn't necessarily have to be a good drawing, but it has to be understandable enough for people to understand the actions or sequences that are taking place each scene, thus incorporating it into an actual movie scene. Which is why sketch artists generally study anatomy and foreshortening which are a fundamental skills in terms of drawing movements and perspectives

[@telemi7316]

Thank you for inspiring me to draw. I started social networks, but did not receive enough support, which is why I decided to start the journey again. When I'm in a bad mood, I just watch your videos. they inspire. and you're too cute. Thank you.

[@Anastasiabruno]

Hi Sam, this comment is not about this video, but I just wanted to let you know. My lovely grandma passed away today, once I showed her your drawings and she started following you on instagram, she loved your art so much . I just wanted to thank you for your art Because it makes people happy. I am an artist, I want to become an illustrator, and I’m trying to reach my dreams I’ve been chasing since I was young, you are one of those who inspire me a lot. Thank you so much Sam 💙

[@bendietrees]

Maybe your beautiful Grandmother rest in peace ❤️ She sounds like a special woman.

[@Anastasiabruno]

@@bendietrees yes she was, my grandma wrote a book about her life and we managed to publish it before her death and her cancer to get worse. She got breast cancer🙏 today her funeral was actually much more peaceful than what I imagined, but of course, one of the most difficult moments of my life so far. She passed away at 76 years old. She liked drawing, painting, writing, restore statues, pray, she liked social media...

[@Ramen5000Manga]

@@Anastasiabruno what's the book, i want to pay respect.

[@Anastasiabruno]

@@Ramen5000Manga actually the book is in Italian because we are from Italy, but it's called "quando ero bambina mi vendevano sempre" (the title sounds sus but it's actually a deep metaphor of her life. It's her life story

[@Ramen5000Manga]

@@Anastasiabruno sounds good thanks

[@souldepletion13]

ngl a lot of this appeals to me as an independent musical artist and 3d designer. It's beautiful how similar creative applications are to each other and how they complement each other. Thank you for making the video!

[@OcioCamaraMx]

As someone who's been drawing for years and consider herself not talented on the craft. I was super down some months ago but with the Deviantart's IA thing, I went back to save all my works I liked before editing to a black square and then delete and noticed the great progress I've had. This year I want to be better at backgrounds and seeing your timelapse with such a beautiful ambience just inspires me! Thanks for the tips!

[@HueHanaejistla]

what is IA

[@OcioCamaraMx]

@@HueHanaejistla *AI, I'm a spanish native and It's IA in spanish. My brain got confused with the languages.

[@mrunaltandel8732]

Sam you are such a blessing ✨ You are the art daddy everyone needs in their art journey!

[@Slayducks]

This is prob gonna help me with my art block. I’ve been struggling to find my style and comparing myself to others . Thank you Sam for this. ❤️❤️and happy new year everyone!

[@44L1ya]

happy new years eve!

[@Elvyne]

Good luck, I'm going through that as well

[@anastasiiashcheglova1330]

How is it that you give the information at once and without unnecessary introductions? Gosh, thank you ✨💕

[@4the0cean]

I just found you on KZbin today and I just wanted to share that I have seen your art plenty of times and have always loved it. So, it's cool to put a personality to the creator of art I've enjoyed over the years.

[@Daisuke14]

1. Your art is extremely cute, I love it 2. I'm not a visual artist (I'm a writer) but all od these pieces of advice are just as true with writing as they are wit visual art. Focusing on one aspect at a time, towards a goal, and with references (both from observing the world around you and reading published, polished works as well as the passionate fan made works) is the kind of advice that I both hear and give out to so many people. And yet, it gets brushed aside so much. It's so refreshing to find someone who outlines all of these things without letting their preference skew the advice. Thank you for this!

[@KeturaSaint-Fleurose]

Any published polished writing you’d recommend for someone wanting to expand their writing?

[@Daisuke14]

@@KeturaSaint-Fleurose that's difficult to answer, there's so much out there and so many genres to choose from. Rather than recommend a specific book, I would tell you to go down to your local library and ask the librarians for their favorite books in a genre you want to explore. I don't use tiktok, but I've heard that booktok has been a very good way to get book recommendations. And don't discount the writing in comics/manga/visual novels, either.

[@snowwolf507]

I have goals but it's not like I'm committed to them, I'm just going with the flow. But I'll tell you what; lately I'm obsessed with drawing and honestly this is great. I can learn a lot of things every single day and improving with time

[@ReliPen]

Been drawing since 6th self taught and did improve drastically, I’m going into the graphic design field. Your videos are very useful. I really appreciate your input on the topic of art as a whole.

[@DiDi_Wi]

This is my favorite motivational video! Every time I catch myself lacking motivation, it reminds me to go in the direction I want and not to give up. Thank you for this Sam.

[@punguschungus]

clear, concise and not judgemental. the demonstration of the piece with the girl & the bird emphasizes the point of "where i'm at vs where i was" very CLEARLY. Which i think is important. as someone totally self taught who hasn't put much 'effort' in over the last decade of art toward making massive strides, it's definitely a challenge to motivate when you see environment artists that are masters at half the age. different circumstances and the like. they've still been at the same stages in their skill. that said it doesn't stop me improving because i'm magnitudes better than 12 years ago. even if there's not much to 'show off' what little you have isn't squandered time. it's all going to show up at the other end either way you look at it. only concerning factor from the beginning was you. it's always you & what you focus on. at least that's what I'm taking away from this video, kudos for being so humble at your level. certainly something i aspire to do; 'be a hobbyist still, yet tell my own stories more comfortably'

[@Ash69eve]

It's like Sam knows my problems, he come out with solution everytime I'm stucked in a point! Happy new year guys💓

[@nicapanda208]

As an artist I've been lost for months! Now that the fact that im starting to relearn how to draw tbh i was lost but thanks to you i was able to find myself on the right track again so thank you

[@sammkitkat4623]

BEST NEW YEAR GIFT YALL, A VID FROM SAM

[@moritzfranzke7635]

So so helpful! Especially the reference one held me back for so long. I actually recommend to even create a folder with references you find in your day to day life so you can straight jump into drawing something when sitting down instead of needing to research a picture you want to take as reference.

[@nataliestillwell7430]

Hey, I'm in a really weird place in my life right now where I've felt directionless and I've been struggling with myself and finding motivation for a while now and I wanted you to know that your video helped me. I came here looking for art tips and the way that you talk and explain things helped ground me in reality and has helped me decide how I should pursue moving forward both in my art and my future. Thank you for the content you make and the help you extend to others, your art is lovely by the way. :)

[@marlusdossantos3480]

Everything you said hit home so much!!! Thank you so much for putting this into a bite size package easy to understand, nicely broken down, and entertaining! Happy New Year!

[@kpop._.lover08]

Thank you so much Sam for making this video, it really has helped me to figure out how to carry on with my art journey. ❤️ Anyone whose reading this, I hope you have a happy new year and make the best of 2023 💞

[@dinonuggies4life]

I’ve just been sort of all over the place with my art the past couple years, but I’ve improved little by little and now I’m hoping to get into digital art more (long term goal). This video is great advice and I’ll definitely be applying it, thanks!

[@LiniTheSoul]

Comparing ur art to the art you made before is actually so helpful. I may not be as skilled as other artists yet but I can already see how much my art improved since I started and knowing that I will be able to look back at the art I do right now in a few years and be like „yeah, I am much better now!“ is really motivating! Thank you so much!

[@Mal_3D]

Dude you are PREACHING here. I have always used references and was told i was just "copying" but while i didnt know WHY i needed to use them i knew that i did need to because my art was terrible when i tried to draw from my extremely shallow pool of knowledge. Im 28 now, and after a long time of not seeing much improvement i decided you know what? For the next however long i can keep it up im gonna come home from work (i got off at about 2-3am) jump on my pc and grab a couple references and just finish each of them (usually about 3-4 portraits) to the best of my ability then post them to IG before i went to bed at 6am lmao. I told myself I wouldnt care what they looked like, the only rules i had was that i draw for the time that i was at home and that i finished at least one of them and posted it. I did this every night for about 3-5 months. I improved SO much its crazy, it was so fast and that improvement made me want to do more of it. Now I can comfortably do a sketch, refine, flip, refine, paint and post. I can do that so easily now where as before it would take so long and be legit scary because i was SO attached to the outcome but detaching from it and not caring how it came out was the solution for me, it gave me room to grow because i wasnt filled with anxiety about it being terrible.

[@bloop8895]

Off-topic but sam is such a great artist. Not only does his drawings look like a masterpiece, but he knows what hes doing. He inspires so many people with his art and teaches us about his ways. He keeps things simple and always strays away from the perfectionist mindset and its what makes me motivated to draw, he doesnt judge us (maybe a little bit..) but instead he tells us what we should do to make our art better. Sam is such a great artist and a person :)

[@MasterHKS]

Watching you helped me with skin and hair a lot! I remember back in 2020 i saw a ton of your drawings without knowing who was the artist, it was awesome once i found you.

[@TheAdventuresOfaDragon]

3:09-5:00 As a fellow fictional/real life animal artist I can assure you I always use referances. I always try to use real life referances even though I am drawing in my own style or even just realism. I love your art style and lighting teqneaches, it is just 'perfect' in it's own way. Thank you for making this video.

[@thesteampunkplanner]

Hi Sam, I just found you after watching Ross Draws' video from the last Lightbox. I have been an artist for 50 years. Actually went to college for commercial art. The 80's were not friendly to artists and I went the makeup and artistic nail route. I had to close my business during the start up after covid. Art had remained a hobby and gift thing but now with my business gone I went back to what I love! I am 54 and trying to learn the digital art world for my book cover business. Your words are so helpful! I do feel old in this art world. My husband encourages me often, which I appreciate, but sometimes I feel so lost and frustrated at "having to learn something else" just to create something. I tried some schooling and put what I had left into it just to have the instructor decide to close the online school without refunds. So, I appreciate your videos and looking forward to this new adventure. Thanks for listening.

[@Houdini_Bob]

I'm waaaay into my 60's, just retired and picking up drawing digital drawing/art as a hobby. I have never had any art classes and all I have done before is doodling when bored at meetings LOL #2 hits home, I'm all over the place: characters, vehicles, landscapes; so I've settled down to characters then landscapes to put them in. #4 and #6 are another ding, I feel that even though I just started drawing after a few weeks I should be as good as you are who've been drawing for 15-20 years. I get discouraged and stop for a few weeks, pick it up, watch a tutorial and same feeling hits. I am regrouping to just go with MY flow. I have learned much from your faces tutorial of 3 years ago.

[@rose-sama5024]

this was super useful as an ap art student who’s struggling to find their spark lol, i would always gets overwhelmed by my classmates artworks bc I would compare myself even though they have more experience. im excited to learn more in 2023, thank you sam

[@aldwingildo4141]

great video. happy new year to everyone!

[@tartagaylicious]

Yoo you have the same pfp as my twitter pfp loll

[@sammkitkat4623]

My brain rlly went: wait, bro finished watching in 2 secs? /j

[@lily_zejneb]

Sam, THANK YOU SO MUCH! I've been trying to do better art because the arts that i've been trying to work with was just too ugly and some people were posting videos about "lifehacks that will help you draw better" and since i thought it will help me i started to listen to them. But after one year , it actually didn't help with anything. Thank you, thank you, thank you so much. I really appreciate you.

[@pchmk5803]

i was just panicking and crying thinking about my progress in art and then this video came up. i now feel a little better. thank you for encouraging words.

[@shinessstar5762]

Happy new year Sam. It has been an answer for the things we couldn't find the answer to or the things we didn't know what the problem was. You really inspire me. Thank you for this video. 💕

[@BeautyMonster1000]

Great video Sam! I'm a traditional and digital artist and learning these things will definitely help me going forward on my artistic journey. 🙂

[@farbexx]

Happy new year! And thank you Sam for making me to be more happy with my own art and modivate to it! Thank you Sam!:D

[@KathleenRenninger]

Great insights here. They touched on several of my problems: " being all over the place" ; no set goals, perfectionism, failing to take each effort as an opportunity to learn, and more. Thank you!

[@shrippie-4214]

Something that makes using reference more fun is looking at it putting it away then drawing it instead of drawing right along side of it

[@Hiba_idontknowx]

I have learned so much from you ever since I found this channel keep up the good work and continue helping others! 🥳 happy new year.

[@Oocoo2]

One thing I had to learn while struggling with comparing my art to other peoples' is just... not to think my art isn't good because it looks like I made it. It's so easy to think "I want to do lines like them! I want to color like them!" But in the end, you aren't them. You do colors and lines your own unique way and that's totally okay!

[@nightmystery1131]

This video helps me so much! I've always wanted to draw semi realistic with my OC's, but I always get discouraged when I start struggling and my art becomes more of a burden then a form of creative expression. Now I know that that's a long-term goal and that I should keep sharpening my skills!

[@juskaran]

The way you have mastered color and lighting is just amazing

[@innervisionjj]

Listening to you is like seeing art with a voice. There is so much redundand info on the net repackaged to seem relevant. You are the best.

[@louu6003]

Happy new year everyone! Hope u all achieve your art goals this year 🤍 Also ty Sam for motivating me and helping me through this year on my art journey 🤍

[@STAYLOVESSTRAYKIDZ]

Sam helped me soo much in art! I draw much better now! I just want to say, thank you Sam! ❤✨

[@Luziiifer]

Thankyou so much for your tips and for helping me improve with my art Sam! I also hope that you’ll be having a great 2023 :D

[@bungamatahariochre]

your plant shelf is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing this!!!

[@NerdEmoji1067]

Best part of this guy is that he of funny but also gets to the point and makes good content

[@ina.aaahhh]

One more thing I'd like to add, sometimes you might have a vision for what you want to draw in mind, but are afraid of actually starting it. It may seem too difficult or may take too long, but doing a big project once in a while is a good way to train your brain to "work with what you have", meaning if you make a mistake, you'll need to find a way to easily fix it instead of focusing on it for too long. In the end, the result may not turn out how you wanted to, but you know it was a great learning experience because you got to be creative and step out of your comfort zone for while. Remember, these things take a lot of time and practice, it's okay to take things slowly.

[@Unownzone]

I love how 1:30 sounds like :If you want to be an animator, maybe it's good to start off by learning how to draw "an anime"

[@narimdraws6696]

Here's to another year of procrastination--I mean.. productivity :)

[@samdoesarts]

LOL oop-

[@jasonleo3320]

as a 19 year old who just started art some of these did hit close to home. Thank u. I really appreciate the tips and I now have a better plan moving onward.

[@VoltageEDM]

"It could be FEET" -Sam 2023

[@retrorampage4666]

22

[@telemi7316]

I don't know what happened to me. but just seeing these things makes me very happy: Sam, the Skull of the enemy and Berb who name is Peter.

[@daffy_core]

even after year i see this first time and i can tell that all things said are so true and also knowing that youre truly good artist as seen in your speed up painting is also good to know without any big ego dont over-self critize yourself too much , i asked amazing artist once and he told me he isnt good artist and he maybe even dont know how to draw as you would think , he only is good at hiding things he doesnt know how to draw . Maybe by not drawing them at all or masking them with simplistic way to not be catched , being an artist is never ending journey and truly mentaly demanding ,finding your workflow ,style , development ,and discipline is realy hard

[@syzygy4365]

I just want to say thank you! This doesn't just go for art these types go for anything you might want to chase. I don't mean that in a way as it's generic. This is crucial advice for anything if you want to take the time to categorize where your at in the process. You are wise beyond your years. ❤