How I Improved My Art WITHOUT Drawing Every Day (And How You Can, Too!)

[@yuli4ka.w]

It gets *SO* tiring hearing artists say how happy they are drawing 6 hours a day, every day, and how it's all about gratitude and dedication... Your form of positivity feels so much more genuine and realistic. Thank you for this message

[@miriamgillham6701]

So completely agree with the truth in your comment.

[@zorrows_tale2]

fr i got so much art block from drawing every day 🙃

[@SarahSpencerMusic]

Right?? This is so true of the music industry, too. I think things are starting to change there.

[@Lovangeline]

agree, but you should let people be happy of what they want, if they want to work 6 hours a day, they can

[@nm9688]

@@Lovangeline who is she stopping

[@cosmicsugarbunny1832]

The “draw everyday” rule was what caused me to stop drawing when I was younger. Not only did I feel insecure about how little I was improving, but it also gave me a huge burnout. I didn’t turn my back on art completely, but during my long breaks all I did was watch videos and observe some of the techniques other artists used. I’m slowly getting back into making art, and I feel like since then, I’ve somewhat improved a lot. Not only that, but to go at own pace and enjoy it. TLDR: You don’t have to draw everyday to improve. Simply watching and observing art or anything else will help you improve.

[@che7941]

also it helps mainfesting the stuff you practiced. I always take big breaks and each break I improve a lot. Its kinda like after a break, my brain is finally able to understand all the things I practiced and coudnt get right before. Dont force yourself and take breaks! Even if its a big break it doesnt matter 😊

[@JeanneBook]

I am the same, now i am working on a drawing for like a week i make small progress on it per day and draw some random doodles on the side. I aint gonna put myself on such a high pressure day to day drawing again.

[@RatClowns]

In the same boat as you friend

[@allanredhill8682]

The rule should not be "draw everyday", but "be an artist everyday". Observation is the biggest key to growth - art is 80% problemsolving and 20% drawing xd. Sure drawing and painting is the laborious part but most of the work is done in our head...

[@saloni.sharma]

You're actually right about that! It's not about drawing.. It's about shapes, perspectives, color palettes, compositions etc. and it all happens in our heads first!

[@rokamayono2312]

Noted

[@allanredhill8682]

@@saloni.sharma ye - it also helps to not limit one self to one specific thing. If youre a comic artist, check out how movies are made or how designers approach their work. You can learn a lot from looking at art from very different angles. You can improve by learning from an actor just as well as from an painter (tho to be clear I dont mean you should be a actor and a illustrator and a comic artist etc. Definitely stick to what your goal is, but dont have tunnel vision on just one topic...)

[@doubleozeven1314]

Yesss! I agree with this so much. I had to take 2 years off of art on and off because I developed really painful carpal tunnel, it was so hard to stay content cuz I felt like I was falling behind and not practicing, so I solved my issue by studying art online with my eyes and every few months when I would draw, I’d see the clear improvement :)

[@Name-dl3uq]

This came at the best time- I found that recently i was not able to draw everyday, as per advice everyone gave me. Then i took a break, and it turned into an even longer break, and it actually made me feel very ashamed of myself. Thank you 💕

[@wlfgrl7764]

Don't ever feel ashamed about you taking breaks we all need one once in a while

[@Name-dl3uq]

@@wlfgrl7764 thank you 🥺❤

[@pajamalucas2090]

I understand how you might feel ashamed however, I sometimes take breaks and come back refreshed and better then ever! Don't feel bad, it can actually help out sometimes!

[@dapper3160]

Sometimes I feel ashamed for taking a break too. But then I wonder, when I get back to it, why my anatomy and composition actually improves every time? And I think it's a combination of having a fresh perspective, and "watching with intention" like Emily says. I never had a term to describe the way I study while not working on any pieces but she summed it up perfectly and it explains why I improve more when I don't practice physically. Because a huge part of art is mental training, I think. Idk if I worded it well

[@pajamalucas2090]

@@dapper3160 Same exact situation for me lol

[@RavannaStudios]

I completely agree. People shove practice practice practice (which like, yeah obviously). I was consistently putting myself down for not creating enough. I'm a fairly rigid person, so while your content inspired me to try watercolor, the benefit of it forcing me to let go of my rigidity every time I paint gives me motivation to stay. I sat down and made a timeblock calendar. I made my peace with only painting twice a month for youtube videos while also managing my fulltime job, a part time job, a web dev freelance contract, my etsy shop, and time for just bumming around/video games and spending time with friends and family. But even though I only paint twice a month, I list pros and cons each time I finish and I can see myself learning even with such a low physical painting application. And in fact when I did follow their advice for Artober 2020, and painted every day for 31 days, I burnt myself out and didn't paint again for 7 months. Do what works for you. As long as there's effort you will improve.

[@varjoart]

I agree with "watching with intention" rather than "drawing with intention". I don't draw daily, but I find I still make improvement based on intentful watching. I've found that with following rules, measurements, and proportions of anatomy that we learn as a standard, my character drawings became really stiff. Instead of following exact rules, I only really glance at the reference to have the general shape and motion of the figure. To learn how to improve, if you're not a complete beginner, I usually advice people to find artists they like, and to really LOOK at their art. Look at things that inspire you and what makes their art good. I recently became a fan of Araki HIrohiko, and I feel like his art has had a massive influence on my drawings and improvement especially with character poses.

[@MissElixir]

Oh I adore Araki! Yea I love Jojo but I have a copy of his book Manga in Theory and Practice and how he said he wants to push the human body. How he went to see the statues in the Louvre and the fluidity of them inspired him. He has a very unique way of portraying the body and it's amazing isn't it?

[@katm8128]

Measurements are really helpful when it comes to studies of foreign subjects you’re getting used to for the first time imo. Beyond that, it’s the same for me. Construction makes my drawings stiff, and intuition is what makes me love my best pieces of art

[@CautionArtistatPlay]

As an artist who also has a 9-5, this is so refreshing to hear, I often feel guilty that I don't draw everyday. I have always been a deep observer and definitely watch with intention so I completely agree with you! It has definitely helped me with my work since I have such limited time to create. Thank you for posting this, I think we all put too much pressure on ourselves sometimes! 💖

[@ohnositsrose]

On the matter of perspective in media to help convey an emotion or feeling, Netflix's Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events is a fun series employs camera angles beautifully to make you feel like a child being looked down upon, feeling small, etc. This helped me a bunch with perspective drawings, which I've used to cope with life. It's great to hear from you, Emily 💕

[@naraku971]

Aye, and great casting. I got to meet Patrick Warburton two years ago, super nice guy, and I like what he's done with the role of Lemony Snicket.

[@wizardoftrees8424]

Thanks for the tip. Good luck on your artistic journey

[@berryblushin3074]

Love this! Also remember that just because you don't draw personal art frequently doesn't mean you're a bad artist! Both my job and my schooling have me making art all the time, so whenever I have free time I don't want to do more art. Having that time away from your sketchbook is important so that you don't get burned out

[@eliza3144]

This happened to me, I got so caught up with my art that I would draw everyday. When I would finish a piece, I would move on right away to a new one (literally) giving myself no time for a break. That’s how I got so burnt out so quickly, and I’m still currently burnt out and in art block. I’m still in school too so me finding free-time to draw is a chore in itself. It definitely taught me the hard way to not draw everyday and that the process takes time.

[@klc7275]

I love this advice. I usually go through phases with art. I'll draw everyday for a few months and then I won't draw at all for a month or two. I just do whatever feels right and actually, those times when I don't create anything seem to make me better because I spend those times doing nothing but observing. Everyone thinks and creates differently.

[@emeraldqueen1994]

I draw every day, not because it’s a rule I have for myself, but because I find it relaxing and fun EDIT : if you’re doing something creative, your an artist PERIOD!

[@andystewart3877]

Don't agree. Just because you drew a picture doesn't make you a artist. Intention makes you a artist.

[@damonmart6627]

I- I dunno who to agree with it here, OP or the reply

[@edenisok894]

@@andystewart3877 just because they said it was relaxing/fun doesn’t mean they aren’t drawing with intention. If you draw your an artist, children doing stick figures makes them artists. Everyone can be an artist but not everyone can make good art. Also why does it matter that they have a different way of practicing? They’re still improving

[@caelinart]

@@andystewart3877 mh.. when is someone an artist? Who decides that? There are people outthere who aren't sharing their drawings, bcs they draw for themselves and they draw good. I feel like you're just an artist if you gained some followers.. talent isn't noticable, fame is. There is this video with Christiano Ronaldo. He dressed as a homeless guy. Played with some children, there were not much people who wanted to play with him. But after he dressed normally, hundreds of people followed him. Like.. His skill that he showed, didn't change. But he's just a footballer, bcs of his fame, i guess. without he wouldn't be a footballer in ur defintion.

[@keelobrown4991]

@@damonmart6627 op is definitely correct

[@FaeDream]

Amazing improvement! I tried to draw every day and got burnt out SO fast. Tried to "post every day" on Instagram, and I got so burnt out on art that I barely drew over the entire summer. Thanks for this video - it's the reassurance I needed that working when I want to is enough to improve.

[@curiouskatsayshello4673]

Thanks for making this video. I’m sitting in the ER with my sick dad trying not to cry or lose my mind. This video is the perfect distraction and your art gives me a small comfort during all this awfulness. Thanks again Emily. Much love to everyone here.

[@tessa6307]

Great advice! I look at the “draw every day” mentality as more of a habit forming technique. It’s nice for me to have my creative time carved into my schedule, whether it’s daily or whatever. Everyone is different and has different priorities. Ultimately we need to just be kind to ourselves

[@microvavebitch6945]

Im so happy that you're saying this because sometimes I still feel bad that I don't draw every day and that I can take long brakes in between art works Thank you

[@narararamammily5386]

What I hate when artists giving the “draw everyday” advice is that they don’t take into the account of beginners or amateurs who don’t know where to start. I did do that advice and I felt like crap because it didn’t look good and I started to panic whenever I miss a day of practice. I felt like I learn nothing from it. I learned overtime that I need to identify what I want to work on before starting what I want to draw as usually it require me to improve that side first. And an important thing I learn is actually observing real life objects and take breaks to clear your mind.

[@SabrinaRina]

I know someone who did the daily drawing and now has a shop. So I held that against myself in what I needed to do to get better, as she didn't really draw before. It's cool and a relief to hear different. I've felt so sick by end of day that I rarely get to any writing/drawing or something daily. It was actually just making me feel a failure.

[@queenwednesdayart]

As a long time subscriber, I just wanted to say I have noticed and I appreciate your growth as an artist. I agree whole-heartedly with your message. It's hard to get over that hump of giving-too-much-of-a-shit especially in the social media age we live in, but once you do, you realize what good art you could've been making all along.

[@yuliamary6308]

I just realize that emily has become my internet art mom, like she help me through A LOT of stuff and still is to this day

[@JodesDaPhee]

Emily you have this inate ability to drop what I needed to hear at the perfect time, I swear. Thank you so so much for this. 🙏 As someone who is going through such a rut, this video, the message was so beautifully and honestly conveyed. Keep moving up and my best wishes to you and your family ❤️

[@karevv]

As someone who draws everyday, I really loved this video. Art is my schooling & career & also what I do for fun. A lot of my friends ask me for advice on how to improve their art & I never know what to say. I normally resort to “well I’ve been drawing everyday for over a decade… so I guess I just naturally improved?” A lot of people will call me a loner or tell me to “get a life” because all I really do is draw… but that’s what I enjoy- so I never understood what the big deal was. Thank you Emily for this video, I’ll definitely recommend it the next time I’m asked “how to improve”

[@clarascloset]

I love your rants. 😊 I really could’ve used your advice forty years ago when I was in art school. Instead I was given the “you got to suffer for your art” crap and then ended up dropping out because I was already suffering from trauma and I really didn’t need anymore suffering. Hearing you now is the tonic I truly needed then and I am grateful for receiving now. ❤️

[@hypedbagkid962]

I love how you are like everyone's art mom. and I wholeheartedly agree with spending time with family! stay healthy everyone!

[@Cherri_Bea]

I struggle to draw every day due to my ADHD so I get burnt out and distracted very easily. I tried and tried to be like all the other artists who were advising to draw every day and practice non stop but I just couldn't do it. It's nice to see I'm not the only one who is struggling with this. I've recently been drawing when I can commit full focus and tbh I've improved anyway. So I mostly just stick to drawing when I can and I enjoy art alot more now.

[@fantastictoad8853]

I draw when I can. I usually only feel inspired in the fall and winter. I do draw throughout the year, just not a lot. I love drawing with my kids. I just feel the best in the fall and winter.

[@jaydemakris6008]

I really appreciate this advice. I've been having such a hard time sitting down and being able to draw, either having little time or just bullying myself out of it. It's nice to have a fresh outlook on my hobbies

[@AliZmusic]

Even though I'm not a painter/visual artist, I'm a writer. I really needed to hear this. I've been struggling so much with my novel, and this has encouraged me to rest and read. Thank you

[@safala]

Also, another way to improve (or what helped me improve*) was watching other artists work. Whether they explain their processes or not, I just watch them work and take into notice how they start their drawings, how they draw their models, how they color, the techniques they use, etc. It has helped me so much to improve despite me not getting more than two drawings a month done because I wasn’t serious about art when I had time and now when I am serious about it, I have no time. *I’m nowhere near what I want to achieve in art, I draw very mediocre works and even then, my works are rigid and very amateur. However, even with ‘practice’ I’ve done in a year and I can count that on my two hands it’s crazy how much I’ve improved. Yeah, you won’t be an amazing artist by just watching others draw and paint but if you can make time to practice and watch others draw and paint when you can’t, you’ll improve.

[@safala]

Hey past me and future readers, another way I've found that helps me improve is to observe the natural world and if possible, imagine the processes I'd take to draw/ paint that in my head. As I still have very little (next to none actually) time to practice on my art and what art I can do is for my assignments* that I can't really afford to redo, I have been seeking ways to vastly improve my works with as less practice as possible and noticing tints and tones, colors (hue?) and their relative warmness and coldness (plus their undertones if possible) have proved to be really helpful as I don't struggle as much with accidentally mixing the wrong colors or accidentally starting with too dark a value in shaded works and ending up with not as much of a variation between the shadows and the light areas. Though I'd say the relative warmness and coldness, undertones and how dark or light an object is is more important than color because you could make a very realistic tree in any color of the rainbow and out if you understand these. Not to mention, all of these observation skills plus the awareness of perspective will help you if you want to draw live someday. Of course, even the observation needs practice (and even I am nowhere near perfect with my observation skills) and as always, actually practicing drawing/ painting is extremely important but these tips have helped me and I am sure they'll help you too. *I am not an art student, to be clear.

[@Muni_Puni]

Loved your voiceover, I could listen to you ramble on for hours, your voice is so nice along with your message ❤️

[@alexvalentine5091]

The drawing everyday thing is why I can never finish any Inktober/Goretober

[@stellbz2347]

Same, I always get like a week and a half in and suddenly can't do it anymore

[@ghoulchan7525]

I usually make a list of characters i want to draw. Only fill up like half of it. And then just ask people inside a few fandoms i am in what character i should add... I actually made some fun pieces that way.

[@Screwshrew]

The most I’ve ever gotten to was 3 days because it was so much pressure especially with school I’m lucky if I get to draw once or twice a week at this point

[@alexvalentine5091]

@@Screwshrew I’m lucky if I draw once or twice a month

[@alexanderthefine]

This felt like a breath of absolutely beautifully fresh, lavender scented air

[@changemymind06]

My goodness Emily - I FELT THAT! Thank goodness there is finally an artist that said what you just did. Realistically, I can't draw every day and it did make me feel like I didn't 'love' art enough. I'm sure I'm not the only one. Your video made me say 'f*ck yeah! You're so right!!' and gave me a refreshed perspective about doing art, living life, and being happy. Thank you so much and your painting turned out great! I seriously love your videos and always have. ❤🖤

[@teeganmorris2037]

honestly one of the most inspiring and thoughtful videos on this site, thank you for everything you do

[@fidgetyhuman]

Hi Art Mom! I got into watercolor because of you, but university, low motivation and generally bad art has frustrated me enough to reconsider my choices. I will persevere a bit more in art but wherever this goes, I’d like you to know how immensely thankful I am for your videos. Stay safe :)

[@NoadiArt]

I shifted my thinking to instead "be creative every day", so I stopped worrying about sculpting or drawing every day and instead expand it to studying from life, experimenting with media that's just more fun like a costume, watching a documentary, looking at any sort of media that incorporates design and really absorbing it (whether it's a movie, fashion show, etc). trying something new. Expanding that definition improved my art because I have been absorbing so much more that I can incorporate into my art as well as making me stress much less over it.

[@TeenJournals]

This has come out at the perfect time. I've been so disheartened with my art and feeling like I'll never improve. It's left me not wanting to draw so I switched to painting landscapes to avoid feeling disappointed with myself. Thank you for more words of wisdom. This has made me want to brush myself off and keep trying

[@tonksbond]

THANK YOU. It never sat quite right with me this "you need to draw everyday" people preach about. It does not work like that for me. The main reason why I make art is to express myself, most of the times about things that havent reached my conscious mind and for that they appear as symbols. I can't draw and paint something that doesnt come from very intimate aspects of my psyche. Drawing everyday for practice is something that erases the meaning art has for me.

[@unusualInferno]

Oooh, the intro is sooo cute!

[@SaskiaSketches]

Gosh what a beautiful video and painting!! A joy to watch. And then the amazing message!!! I’m currently studying visual arts and my whole class works overtime. I’m one of the few people that doesn’t work on the weekends or at night. Sometimes I feel guilty about it, but I value my health more than I do my grades and it’s crazy that I’m even feeling bad about that. Hussle culture is incredible toxic.

[@art-n-animals6724]

I find i improve when I step back and take a break for like a month with only a little bit of art in that month or I step back and work with a different medium for a while. (Sometimes I go from digital to acrylic painting or sculpting or vice versa) and I find it really helps!! Also, look at other artist's speedpaints, watch how they draw, what brushes they use, how they do their lineart, and throw your own spin to it!

[@Adingalingling]

Yessss!!! Practicing every day especially when I’m only practicing on my drawing always leads to me burning out. My adhd requires me to learn a variety of art mediums at once. Otherwise I get bored and burned out.

[@BlackHayateTheThird]

So here for your rant! Trying to deal with my health/ chronic illness, and trying hard not to feel pressured too much to get back to working too quickly when the next while I have several appointments nor to push myself too much to try to draw art 'everyday'- some days I physically can't, so this video def helps with that. Thanks for sharing!

[@charlidvds3296]

You’re so cool Emily, it’s obvious you love art but know it’s not as important as your love for your kids. You’ve improved on everything over the years, we’re so proud of you

[@ebbe276]

I just love how you end your videos with that inspiring happy music and you saying the iconic phrase "and don't forget to stay out of trouble." It is amazing how happy that makes me feel. 😊

[@MissElixir]

I needed this. I game a lot more than I draw and even then I put this pressure on myself that everything must be perfect. There's so much pressure in the art world, especially if you have a cartoony style. Cartoons are not "professional" and blah blah We all just need to let go and relax. Chill tf out. I needed this video, thank you Emily!

[@jaylynessa1406]

This is literally something my profs at art school were always encouraging and trying to instill in us. Definitely VERY solid advice! It can be so unbelievably mentally draining to draw every single day sometimes. and if you're one of those people like me that's just going to give yourself creative burnout, drawing each day does more harm than good imo Take care of yourselves and be kind to yourselves, everyone! :)

[@pieseize7385]

I love this take so much. I've noticed that over the past 5 years, I've somehow improved despite not drawing or painting as much as before. While in college and grad school, watching people on youtube and other platforms make art in a variety of styles is all I had the energy for. I'd watch how they'd interpret people, objects and backgrounds into different shapes and compositions, and over time I found myself doing something similar mentally on my daily bus & train commute (and even making some quick sketches if I was lucky enough to get a seat). "Watching with intent" is a great way of putting this!

[@LindsayKitson]

I'm 100% with you on the drawing every day advice. Some people also even learn better when they take some time to let new information percolate in their brains. I love how you keep it real. :)

[@karolina8465]

Yeah, I only started drawing after I dumped all those rules and advices about perfection, progress and the need to draw everyday. And only after that drawing became something wonderful and rewarding, because it doesen't need to be perfect, that's not the goal. And I discovered that by observing people or objects or places I started to improve, not caring about it, so I agree with Emily.

[@maryhightower5240]

Just wanted to say that this piece represents vast improvement...not that the previous work was bad...this is just inspiringly better. Thanks for doing this video!

[@karmica7591]

Thank you so much. I downsize too much my abilities, and at the same time I know I want to grow up my art. I needed this more than I thought.

[@RhiannonSmudge]

Thank you for giving me a little bit of validation, I've always felt self-conscious that I can't seem to draw as quickly or post as often as other artists, even though I'm at a point where I'm mostly happy with my style and skills. You are correct, the workaholic culture that exists in general is incredibly toxic, it's too bad that there's a lot of people out there who need 2-3 jobs just to have enough money to survive

[@bluesunflower1698]

I feel down every time I see the rule that needs to draw every day because it's impossible for people who suffered chronic illnesses like me to follow that. I feel relieved because a professional like you saying that it's okay to spend time for a while.. As long as we focused our time during practices, we will keep improving without we realised. Keep being awesome, I like your video

[@fruityfrog7544]

This video couldn’t have been timed any better! I’m a senior in high school and I keep flip flopping what I want to major in college. I would love to major in fashion and textiles but I don’t feel that I’m good enough to even get accepted into a school or program. So, I planned to major in history because that’s the next best thing. This video actually really gives me a lot of hope and that maybe I can pursue something in the arts :)

[@hirilyss]

This video is SO IMPORTANT for artist of all kind. Thank you Emily for doing this really! It really helped me as well even if I already came to terms with the fact that "I don't need to draw every day". Seriously, thank you so much for doing this! It was so helpful 😊❤️

[@dadlover333]

i literally love u. you’re my comfort youtuber. 😌

[@machupichu3501]

I think they both look great in their own aspects

[@isabellathomas1314]

Yeah yeah, I agree with everything you said, enough about that…YOUR ART HAS IMPROVED SO MUCH, THIS IS PROBABLY THE BEST PAINTING I’VE SEEN ON THIS CHANNEL THUS FAR! The shading, the coloring in general, the highlights! It’s all just so…*chefs kiss*

[@laolaapanda3723]

I really needed this video. I'm an art teacher and I teach kids different types of media and art. I always struggle with anatomy and drawing in general which makes me feel like a fraud because I am a teacher, and an Arts degree holder, so I should be good, I should be better. I kept trying to force myself to draw every day but I ended up hating what I created more and more. Then I'd stop for a long time and draw again, and some things I made I liked. Progress is progress, no matter the duration.

[@xerces27]

I have been consciously doing this for almost as long as I've been doing art and I thought it was something we all did! I do notice improvement whenever I go back to the drawing board. Thanks for the encouragement!

[@nose-bleed]

My thoughts exactly! I improved a lot just by watching other people draw or reading about techniques, etc. I roughly do some drawings per month, but I'm still doing better than some friends who draw every single day.

[@konumbra]

this is such a comforting thought to hear i dont have to pressure myself into drawing something I'm not happy with. been here watching the "before" piece as it came out 3 years ago, it's so cool to see your improvement! hope you're keeping well :)

[@WispyVee]

Being told I'm improving and that I don't have to work so hard every waking moment on my art by one of my favorite artists hit the feels man😭😭😭 I legit just teared up, thank you so much for the reminder Emily.

[@Trixy98]

I am most receptive to improvement when I have the mental energy to learn and experiment with something new. When I draw everyday for the sake of doing so, I end up unconsciously repeating/reapplying what I already know.

[@whytho8856]

for years now it's been that i'll suddenly get inspiration and draw every day for a week or two and then take a break from art for weeks or a month. though, this time feels different, because i want to create so badly but i've been struggling so much with my art and struggle to even finish a doodle, for some reason everything is so difficult all of a sudden. it's like i've forgotten everything when it comes to proportions and anatomy and the like. i had been worried that i got rusty in my time away from drawing and was upset because i didn't know how to bring it back, but this video and these comments help a lot and inspires me to branch out, not only in the art i'm familiar with, but also to branch out and try different mediums and watch with intention more often. all my life i've found myself unintentionally staring at people, watching their movements and the way they carry themselves, which has helped me with my art thus far, but finally i feel like i have a better idea of what specific things i can be focusing on to improve my art where i'm struggling. thank you so much emily for making this video and i hope you and your family are doing okay!

[@wrongturnVfor]

100% agree with Emily. THis is basically the work smarter not harder rule and I am all for it. Again, between college, internship, writing papers and all my other xtracurriculars along with the measley social life, there is very little time for me to practice art. Art is not my profession, it is not my source of income, it is a hobby - a hobby that I sometimes like to showcase or enter in competitions with. I try to paint something every week, but will all the craziness sometimes 2 months go by without me having put pencil/brush to paper. And let me tell you something, even so, eevrytime I do sit down to paint, i definitely improve. Because of mindfulness. For me, art is something that always goes with me wherever I go and whatever I do. And this mindful watching is something i have been doing for a while with consciously knowing that I have. And it works both ways, not only does it help you get better at your art, it also helps you understand a lot of the world around you through the lens of art. Not only that, you are less likely to have art block and be loaded with information whenever you do sit down to draw/paint. I have seen so many people who follow the " draw eevryday" rule get in "art zone" for only that one hour and become totally mindless about art for the rest of the day. On the other hand being mindful of art all day everyday and drawing occasionally is a better investment because your hands may not get the practice but your mind is getting 24 times more practice than most of those other people. And its easier for your hands to catch up to your mind than it is for your mind to catch up to an artistic concept.

[@13origamichickens91]

I'm a person who constantly picks up new things or hobbies (or at least the idea of it) but never finishes, and the idea of drawing everyday was just so intimidating and I would see sketchbook tours and feel so down since I wasn't "to that level yet" and creating amazing art every time I drew and it weighed on me and I still don't create as much outside of art classes. I'm super grateful for the more realistic approach, especially for people without time or the darn motivation everyday.

[@miriamgillham6701]

When I tried practicing every day. I burnt out. I was so inefficient and my art got tighter and tighter. Everything was too rigid and nothing flowed. It was an effort to face the paper. I felt intimidated by the process and overwhelmed when my structured art sessions utterly achieved the exact opposite of my intentions. Now I paint when I can and how I can in the moment. Sometimes the results are awful, but more often than not the results are free and fresh. And it’s because I have actively absorbed my surroundings, my visual inputs and the life I live. It’s true, Emily, when you really observe and breakdown the scene or subject before you and commit it to your memory and your sensory and emotional centres then it shapes you. Your art does improve. It’s so liberating a place to find yourself in. Thank you for sharing your experience about this. We are so grateful that you put into words what so many of us actually go through everyday. Bless you!

[@AsterisSleeping]

this came at such a good time. I work in creative bursts. I will hardcore create for days or weeks or months and then might not be able to draw for a long time. And then my next burst I will be better and better. I actually went almost 4 years without drawing after my mom, who taught me to draw, passed away. Late last year, I started watching you and SuperRaeDizzle and learned so much- and I've been dabbling in two of the mediums my mom loved that I "couldn't do" - charcoals & paint. Went through a huge burst where I'd started to view everything by what shapes I would use to create them. My mom's motto was "one line at a time" which I didn't understand fully until lastyear. Right now, I've been busy and havent drawn in a while but I keep learning new things by watching

[@inezsanchez1034]

This is amazing advice for me! I have two kids and one on the way and a pile of my art supplies on my desk that I look at feeling guilty at the end of every day because I couldn’t get to draw or paint today, or if I do have time I’m too exhausted to focus on drawing even though I wanted too. It’s just a negative cycle of me fighting between caring for my family and being an artist. I found this to be such a relief 🥲 Thank you. 💛

[@ruru429]

The "watching with intention" works amazingly!! I'm an Engineering undergrad so I rarely get time to draw or paint, but I spend time looking at pinterest girls studying them. Also spend time watching art process videos of artists whose style i feel is preferable to me to see how they incorporate the features i observed in my subject in their art. I paint with weeks difference in between and my new art is always significantly better than the previous one, without this "draw everyday" technique.

[@ona4130]

I remember I saw the original piece in you thumbnail years ago and thought it was one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen in my entire life. That kinda gave me a love for art and now I'm an artist myself. Thanks to you, I found my passion in life!

[@ShidoDraws]

You're like that really cool art teacher I never had. I can't even remember when I started subscribing to you but gosh, your art definitely improved a lot. Of course I have improved too but you are right, we just need to study the world more. Sometimes I feel like artists are the only people that actually sees the world in grey scale yet providing the bright colors to other people's world. Every day when I finish an artwork I appreciate the time that I have to create it... I guess drawing can also be a way to spend time with yourself too.

[@patrongay]

i loved this!! especially because as a student it’s difficult to make time to sit down and draw/paint/etc with intention but watching with intention is something i’ve been doing for so long and now it makes me feel like that time wasn’t wasted and i wasn’t being “lazy” so thank you.

[@Stacy_SJA]

I think of it like this- my art & art supplies will always be there, my babies won’t stay little forever. Sometimes I do art when my kids are asleep, other times I’m too tired. Why videos like this, with amazing artwork, is so inspiring!

[@nessteacake3327]

I cannot express how much I needed to see this video today. The little bit at the end made me tear up. Thank you Emily for saying such lovely kind things to help us be gentler with ourselves

[@mura_sensei]

I've been filled with remorse for a long time now. I got burned out to the core by doing things I liked because I didn't pay attention to my health. I tried to fit in where I couldn't - filling my schedule to extremes until my body stopped working. Everything I put my mental health into hurts me and I haven't touch my sketchbook since July. You words gave me hope ♥

[@ismnotwasm1420]

Oh lord, picking up art after 15 years. I’m talented, but just haven’t been doing drawing, other art, yes. Anyway. Drew my dog. Ears too small (German Shepherd) was the main mistake, but dang if it didn’t take me a long time to figure out what exactly was wrong. I was so disappointed and discouraged. Saw the mistake and was immediately happier. She’s a beautiful dog, with complex layers of color. I’m going to use pastels. Wonderful video and thank you

[@callira2064]

"Can we all not just fuck off?" I love this so much

[@MusingsFromTheDen]

This makes so much sense to me. Studying art and having to think about and 'do' art nearly every day for 3 years completely burned me out and I never seemed to improve. The minute I decided to paint for pleasure and take a more holistic approach to learning about colour and form through observation, I improved at a much faster pace. 😊

[@BabiOni]

Your art looked amazing even then, you’re so talented. A true inspiration.

[@Orchidlettux]

Emily I just wanna say I'm thankful to have found you because ever since I did I was more kind to myself and open about art. When I was young I hated my art and how I wasn't able to catch up because I didn't work hard enough. Seeing younger artist do masterpieces, even though I'm quite literally a baby at art myself, makes me feel insecure and that's such a negative mindset to think. I just wanna say thank you for being an art mom that I never had. I hope you're doing well!

[@darthjaydar1989]

this is already one of my favorite videos ever!! thank you so much. that whole toxic productivity culture is like the bane of my existence, especially with my ADHD. it's just so hard to stay on one thing every single day, I often skip around with different creative outlets and it sometimes makes me feel unproductive because I can't always focus intensely on drawing. there's such a romanticized idea of the workaholic painter that spends 90% of their day and overnight locked in their studio painting and it's completely unrealistic to think most artists are financially and emotionally capable of that kind of lifestyle. art is what it means to be human, so we have to get out there and be human! it's also amazing to see how much the quality of your art has improved, as well as how your outlook on your art has changed! accepting not being perfect - that's so inspiring. the new piece looks so free and alive. it's been a pleasure following you for so long and seeing your evolution as an artist. it reminds me of how I've evolved too!

[@arikajensen3213]

I draw every day because I have so much free time that I improve on every single drawing I do. Sometimes I do digital art and I see more mistakes there that I can improve on. When you draw every day like I do, I notice things I can change and improve on. I used to draw long and lengthly people, now their more the normal height and they look more human and not alien. Definitely studying people have helped me out. I've studied plants, animals, and fabrics too. I watch how fabrics fold on a person. I watch how jewelry lays on a person. I've watched detail after detail. And I've improved so much since high school. I'm now in college and my art has gotten so much better with studying people and movements and just paying attention to little things and drawing it.

[@threelegmeg]

I cannot tell you how much I needed this. I've been beating myself up so much for not drawing enough, accusing myself of *lying* to myself and others that I am an artist, and questioning the efforts I've put in in the past 6 years. This video is so comforting and affirming, thank you.

[@katerinaadriah]

My physical abilities (long before losing my mind and being a stay at home/homeschool mom of now 3) had me yeet the “draw every day” advice off a cliff years ago. I realized it was bad advice when I went six months unable to put pencil to paper or tablet, occasionally watching art videos through the week really paying attention, and managed to come back and have improved work almost immediately- within just a few pieces. All just by utilizing the information I gleaned from the videos I could watch. Now, I don’t recommend going so long without practice, but crap happens. Now, I work whenever I have the physical ability regularly during the week and don’t beat myself up anymore. I tune out/avoid “every day” lectures.

[@georgecooper9766]

I definitely noticed over the years that I need to have at least as much art going into my brain as I put out. That art can come from many different places but if you're only ever interacting with things that don't inspire you it's going to be hard to muster inspiration for your own art. Also adding a digital step to my painting process was a life saver. I prefer to do the initial sketch traditionally cos it keeps it generally more gestural and loose but then being able to clean it up and tweak any issues with it digitally produces a much stronger foundation to build the painting on.

[@cartersanchez2447]

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE VID3O!! im a senior in high school and I no longer have time for gaming or art, all videos preach to draw everyday makes which makes me feel like all the supplies I've bought are for nothing and it makes me feel like I'm going to get worse every day I don't draw. Thanks again, I really needed this message.

[@jayemoone5967]

I just want to first of all say this is truly an inspirational video this is how I've unintentionally been doing my own art for a while now while being busy irl with life things. You actually made me realize that it really is OK to do art the way I've been doing the way you spoke of in your video so thank you! I also wanted to say you yourself I know I've just found you have improved and it's amazing! Thank you!

[@yanal1022]

This was what i needed been hiatus in art for years but still been doing a lot of reviewing and watching on the watercolors and colored pencils and now it seems that when i paint or draw even just an apple or a flower its much more easier.

[@sickeningcherry9012]

I really appreciate this video. I never noticed until now, but all you’ve said is how I’ve improved my art. I study references as well as past pieces to figure out what looks good and what doesn’t. Love you and your channel man 👍✨

[@AnniKMars]

"However you find a way to make art, as long as you're making it and it's making you happy and you are not hurting anyone else, then you don't need to change to fit someone else's idea of what a 'real' artist should be doing." LOVE THIS!!

[@lucijazmijanovic5820]

This video is so comforting... Im going in law school and music school full om every day but i want to go in academy for fine arts and its hard to find time to draw so thank you for this video, it gives hope and comfort💕🎨

[@Sides3Sides]

Ears are so often overlooked, or indicated with a generic gesture. Your ear is masterful - subtle proof of thoughtful observation. Brava! Inspiring video ❤️

[@sierrasmilesart8551]

You inspire me as a new mama and artist and this video came at such a good time. In between taking care of my babe and working my part time, and spending time with my husband, I have a hard time working on my art consistently and have started falling into an "im not worthy" mindset. Thank you for reminding me that I am and I can improve without physically drawing every single day.

[@punkwithapen3004]

Honestly I think this was something I needed to hear and didn't realize it. I've been struggling hard with finding time/energy to work on my art projects due to a 48 hr work week at my day job, while also feeling like if I'm not doing art then I'm not really an artist and is it worth doing anymore. I love my art and I miss having the time and energy and am trying to find a way to get back to it. This video hit me pretty hard and made me feel a lot of things and I really needed to hear it. Thank you 💞 you're amazing and I hope you and your family are doing well

[@SailorMya]

I fully understand not having time I have 4 kids and only 2 of them are school age. I took some time to paint with them and it was fun seeing what they came up with! I wouldn't trade that time for anything! I have been having fun sketching in a note book here and there but not everyday! I needed to hear this since I always feel like I'm not doing enough to improve but just being in the moment with my kids can help me too! Thank you for this!

[@xxBlueCinnamonxx]

I wholeheartedly agree with you. I go through periods of not making art for months because I’m either too stressed, depressed, or busy to do it. BUT I’ve noticed my art gets better regardless of how long I go without drawing. This is because I study anatomy and colors daily. Just by looking at things, I ask myself: “How would I draw this scene in pencil, acrylic, watercolor? How would I mix this color? Is the sky truly blue or is that a lilac I’m seeing under those clouds? How would I draw that pose in a sketch? How does this scene make me feel in this moment and how can I translate that into my art? Etc.” It’s truly amazing how that works. But I’ve learned a lot of this from watching ArtProf here on KZbin. It’s a great educational art resource and I recommend it to anyone.

[@salemccc]

In high school I quit drawing because I drew every day trying to get better and my friend drew every day with intention and was able to catch up and surpass my nine years with three. I'm so glad you mentioned the drawing with intention thing. It really makes a huge difference. I mean, this girl was literally professional quality in THREE YEARS because of how she applied herself in ways I couldn't.

[@Shelley_Folgers]

Thanks Emily for the ending speech 😭😭😭 I used to stay up to draw cause I work the night but now I dont but whenever I do want to draw its something simple and for a few days I sketch it out till it looks more better.