Is it TOO LATE to learn to draw & be a good artist?

Not sure what figure drawing skills to work on and in what order? Try our Figure Drawing Skills Assessment Guide (it's free!) community.lovelifedrawing.com...
How old is too old to become an artist? Am I too late to learn to draw? These are questions people ask whether they are in their 20s or 80s. Somehow there's a perception that you'll never be great at drawing unless you were practising from the time you were in nappies.
Often people quit drawing and want to come back to it, or just always wanted to try but never started, and now think the opportunity is gone forever.
In this video, we are going to examine these ideas and figure out when is too late and how long you'll need to become a 'good artist'. I use some funky graphs, examples from my favourite artists, and do some life drawing at the same time. Plus I draw some little fox characters, because there have been a lot around here recently.
I think I got the age of Van Gogh wrong on those two images where I say 'by 30-31, his skills were developing'. I think he did those around 33-34 years old.
If you're worried that you are starting to learn too late, I really recommend our 'Life Drawing Success' guide, which is about my story with drawing, your mindset and the doubts that can affect your art: community.lovelifedrawing.com...
Finally, you might like to check out our free Fresh Eyes 10-day drawing challenge: www.lovelifedrawing.com/fresh...
The free account you make will also give you access to our new reference library for your general figure drawing practice. The lighting is designed to create clear and interesting shadow shapes and the poses are fun and dynamic!
Our Instagram: / kenzoandmayko
Music: Birds in Flight by Dan Lebowitz, The Opening by Dan Lebowitz, Waterfall by Aakash Gandhi, Lazy Afternoon Sun by Dan Lebowitz

[@gez9145]

great video ken! this channel is fricking awesome. it’s true what you say.. habit status is all important. one thing i find helps with that is to set up my equipment so it’s extremely convenient to start drawing - i.e. everything is always permanently set up, the paper and pencils are laid out at all times... so there’s no obstacles like rummaging around for pencils etc. minimise the obstacles to make doing a bit of drawing a ‘drop in’ operation.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey thanks man! Yeah that is really great advice. It's amazing to think about how much of life and what you actually do is habits. what you turn into habits, consciously or not, determines how your whole life will go. I've been reading about it and what you said - making the good habit super convenient - seems to be a massive part of it. There's also a cue-routine-reward mechanism that you can adjust from existing habits. e.g. i had a habit of watching tv after dinner. the cue is after dinner, the routine is watching tv, the reward is feeling relaxed. so i made the tv a bit less convenient (i keep it unplugged), made the sketchbook more convenient, ensure the drawing has the same reward as the tv (relaxation) by adjusting my mindset around it. Another one i have heard for when you're still building the habit is to make the goal insanely easy - e.g. just draw a minute a day. Generally, if you do a minute, you've overcome the biggest hurdle which is starting, and end up drawing for ages.

[@ExtremeUnction1988]

Nice!

[@HORSESNDOGS9]

I just wanted to leave a reply to say 'thank you'. Thank you so so much! I'm not a new drawer but have completely stopped doing so. I used to draw almost all of the time from when I was little and got better and better as I grew up. But now that I'm facing the responsibilities of adult hood, I haven't given myself the time to return. This video is helping me to start up again. Thanks again! Keep posting awesome content! :D

[@frenchhammock5019]

Another great bit of advice I heard once which is slightly similar was that if you're feeling like you don't have time to draw or study art, 'convince yourself to do the bare minimum of work you absolutely can'. So for example, open up a page and draw for ten seconds. What ends up happening is because you got your supplies out, because you sat down and because you physically put pen to paper, you're in the moment and your mind switches gears into art mode. It never ends up being just ten seconds, and it becomes so easy to keep drawing for the time period you initially thought you didn't have time for.

[@yishakart]

Helpful man👌👌 The first thing beginner must do/learn to draw/ kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoHZfYmXoK-NeNE

[@artemisshaffer8654]

"Too late?" Nope, I'm 63, just retired as an engineer, and having a blast!

[@lovelifedrawing]

that is awesome to hear Anhba - good luck with your practice!

[@Demention94]

Great!

[@johnlight-knight8060]

Awesome! That is the kind of spirit I love!

[@johnlight-knight8060]

@yoxredwolf Thank you :)

[@siliconvalleyboyna8823]

#engineersquad

[@TenshinhanIsKing]

Vincent Van Gogh didn’t start painting until he was 27

[@dcs2690]

@Macho King sure, there is hope

[@BanditLeader]

But they also said his work was bad

[@jakob814]

Bandit Leader Van Gogh’s work is beautiful, people dislike him because they don’t understand him just because he was a bit mentally ill, he is one of the most expressionistic painters that have lived

[@BanditLeader]

@@jakob814 except you're using modern standards and not the standards of his time.

[@Emiliapocalypse]

Bandit Leader maybe that’s because he helped change the standard

[@vinniquagliato5887]

I started when I was 24. I used to think it was too late for me all the time, but I’m almost 27 now and I’m drawing like I never thought I ever would

[@chevaliedelareverie]

Thanks for this! I used to draw... but I stopped for a few years and kept feeling I could never catch up. This really cheered me up!

[@Greg12839]

@Reborn keep going man you will be become a great artist one day

[@6uzhombre]

May we see your drawings?

[@turkeysamwich00]

This is encouraging as I am currently 24 and struggling with motivation

[@naruhina1997]

23 and just started

[@Queen_Zatanna]

I’m 18 and I have been procrastinating because I thought I was too late. I’ve seen people aged 15 or so do amazingly.

[@judgementkazzy1750]

Same here. But right now I'm trying to draw as much as I can so that I will improve. Also, I try to stay away from younger talented artists that could make me compare myself to them. It's best to compare yourself to your old self. That's my conclusion.

[@Pixeliarmus]

it's been 1 months since you made this comment, how are you doing? If you didn't please start today :) Don't think too much over it, i'm 28 and started a few years ago but because i procrastinated, i havent improved much. Stop wasting time, a suggestion from someone who's 10 years older than you :). I wish i started when i was your age

[@breeze5459]

Im 20, i decided i want to be better at art at the age of 18, guess what! I started drwing srsly at 20, so i procrastinated for 2 years! Now that im mature enough to discipline myself, Ive been drawing for 6months straight everyday 😄

[@Arya_16]

I can kinda feel you. I'm 12 and the artist I look up to is maybe my age or 1 or 2 years older than me. My dumbass always thought that I should've drawn when I was 8.I now realized that i have soo many years ahead of me. Don't compare yourself younger artists. I instead get motivadet to draw more when I see their work. Remember where you were then and were you are now. (sorry for writing mistakes English is not my first language)

[@Arya_16]

@@Lstpyroo we are still really young and have so much time to draw. You don't need to draw like a god at 15 years, some of the best artists didn't draw as a child but rather as an adult. You just gotta believe in yourself and stop thinking about those kids who draw better than you. Try to improve as much as you can. 😊

[@wretched17]

a buddy of mine once told me: "the only difference between a natural fighter, and an expert. is 10 extra minutes a day." let that sink in. great vid btw ty

[@israelCommitsGenocide]

more like 4 hours a day but whatever, nobodys a natural fighter too, just egos that think they are. Go train.

[@trungducluu9629]

@@israelCommitsGenocide fight me brah

[@WhimsicalMoonGarden]

“This isn’t a real question, it’s more of a doubt.” Love this. Be a doubt killer and get started no matter your age. If your soul is pulling you to do something, then that is your purpose. Get it done.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey great comment! I love how this comment section seems to have become extremely positive

[@theAussie01]

...very wise words😊

[@jayvee4234]

So if my soul is pulling me to kill my friends, my purpose is get it done? AWESOME!

[@ineedzemedic5810]

Damn, now I feel good and now went to write my story

[@ellipticskyisgay7356]

AMEEEN!

[@elyceus]

25 and I’m drawing like a mad man in my room. Who cares what age, just do it with passion. Someone out there will appreciate your artwork in whatever age. Climb those milestones now.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Nice one! That's how my brother started out, drawing like a mad man. Now he's an art director at a global gaming firm. Keep up the hard work!

[@coolnobodycares]

It's never too late. Just ask my great grandmother who went skydiving at the age of 85.

[@artemisackerman6374]

Woah!!

[@nicwale]

@@artemisackerman6374 he said batman are his brother and probably wrote this comment from asylum

[@diamond_dogs]

Did she...come back?

[@coolnobodycares]

@@diamond_dogs Yes, she actually did it again two years later.

[@coolnobodycares]

@@nicwale I appreciate the effort, but what?

[@tomeetomee4913]

im 75 and started drawing about a year ago . when i see Maykos work on instagram or the work of other artists im inspired to work a little longer that day or watch another video . i may never publish a book but im better today then i was last week. im amazed at what ive accomplished . i have a few new hobbies besides drawing and wish i had more hours in the day. Its NOT too late to discover who you really are. o.k. its 8:35 pm here and there is still time to check out that line and wash course ive been wanting to try. tom

[@lovelifedrawing]

Great comment Tom! Those extra hours add up to a huge change.

[@shawnjohnson1622]

Thank you for posting this. It's really inspiring. Keep up the great work.

[@FckPooTN]

75 years old write YT comments? Lol. I thought there are only annoying kiddos out here.

[@baylego]

Such a wholesome comment, good luck!

[@jadeprice1688]

Wow and i thought that i was too old to start drawing (I'm 18)

[@43En]

It's never too late to take up drawing. Before I got in art school, I had only a couple of months to get preapred compared to all the people drawing since age 7. I sat on my azz and drew every day (sometimes for 6 hours straight) I got in and after a year I got better than everybody there since I wasent lazy and actually wanted to draw. So there you have it from first hand expiriance. Go chase your passions

[@adrianfoster5429]

Tsukishiro I want to go to an art school as well. I’m 27 now but I’ve been drawing off and on since I was very young.

[@43En]

adrian foster Go for it!! As far as I know all you need is a portfolio in order to apply

[@adrianfoster5429]

Tsukishiro I’m working on one now.

[@lovelifedrawing]

that is awesome to hear. you can catch up quick when you work super hard like that. great comment!

[@silverbowftw5225]

Omg

[@otakupower1048]

I’m 19 and I get feelings on it being too late, well more of I wasted so much time. I’ve been drawing since I was 11 but now I’m really serious about it and just started learning true anatomy.

[@kavanalove3701]

YoongiGotMyHeart how do you get started I’m the same age and I’ve only ever drawn mountains or flowers but I want to start drawing people.

[@otakupower1048]

Kavana Love I highly recommend watching Proko’s anatomy videos on YT and Sycra videos also try to do at least 30 minutes of gestures a day(I try too >_

[@solodaph]

I’m 22 and never tried to draw because of my family who keeps telling me that I will never make money out of it. It feels too late. It is too late for me at least.

[@otakupower1048]

Lancelot Belles I don’t think it’s too late for you 22 is still very young. And don’t focus on the money focus on doing what you like. Art can be a side thing and not ur main thing if you’re worried about the money even if it’s 30 minutes a day you’ll improve drastically, so like instead of watching an episode on Netflix I’ll draw for at least an hour and I have the rest of the day to get done what I need too. For me I only have one life so I’m going to spend it doing what I love, what brings me happiness and not what brings in the biggest bucks but that’s just my priority because I know I’ll regret it later in life if I don’t.

[@juuzaoftheclouds4503]

Same for me. I tried it as 13/14 year old and now i'm 18 years old starting again with theory. I feel bad for dropping it back then. My time is more limited now

[@SecksyMan]

I'm 40 and just started. Im having lots of fun and improving every week. I find having fun and passion will overcome all obstacles.

[@farflownfalcon1076]

I'm 40 in five months . . . so starting soon!

[@Cbug7997]

As a person who has barely been able to draw stick figures, but suddenly got bitten by the art bug at 40's door, I needed to hear this. Thank you!

[@lovelifedrawing]

Thanks for watching Casey, and I'm glad the art bug got you :)

[@Astralfenrir]

This video made me shed a tear. I started drawing young, but was always discouraged and told it was a waste of time. If my parents saw me drawing, the drawings would be destroyed. I had to do it in secret. I was never an art prodigy, so my work was ignored at school. In the end I got a "real" job in IT, which while it pays the bills crushes my soul. I picked up a pencil again to draw when I was in university dealing with serious illness, and I was terrible, not having drawn for years. But I was determined to push through and keep going, even with no encouragement, and while I improved somewhat, I'm definitely nowhere near where I want to be. I've just turned 30, and I've finally realised that art is the one thing that makes me happiest in life. Drawing and animating gives me the greatest joy, and I feel alive when I do it, even if my creations are not very good. But lately this feeling has hit me that I'm too old to ever even attempt to be a professional illustrator like I want to be. It's soul-destroying and I have a huge empty feeling in my stomach, a great pain in my chest when I think about it. I needed this video today. Your fox characters are wonderfully designed and rendered. My main character is also a fox and I wish I could draw him as superbly as you've done here. They're my favourite animals and I'd love to be able to do them justice. Thank you for the video, you've made a great positive impact to someone who really needed it. I'll be sure to show my progress in future.

[@lovelifedrawing]

that's great! I'm sorry to hear that your early passion for drawing was crushed like that. i will say one thing: being a professional artist isn't the only way to make art a big part of your life. in fact, i have come across many artists who hate to draw because of the pressure the money side of things puts on them. of course if you want to pursue that goal, then by all means go for it! but there is something to be said for keeping it a pure passion, illustrating what you want for the joy of it. if you practise consistently and focus on the fundamental principles, you can create the artwork you dream of creating

[@Blastsniper]

Just keep it up, dedicate a couple of hours each day! Try to draw something new each day! Draw from life, draw random stuff on your desk, 1000 hours later you'll be pro!

[@paulrob86]

I stated drawing at 52, Three years later and I am getting somewhere near where I want to be. I’m completely self taught, and I try and draw every day even if it’s just 20 minutes doing some patterns as exercises. 18 months after I started drawing I had my first commission and haven’t looked back since.

[@brendajeannewyche2294]

WOW! Congratulations! That is so inspiring. & Thanks for sharing part of your process ~ About drawing every day for at least 20 minutes. Awesome!❤️🙌🏽😁

[@bentoadam]

w

[@luvntonic]

Thank you for sharing this! Gives hope!

[@Curmudgeonhero]

I’m 62. Thank you for this. Really, thank you. ✏️❤️✏️

[@luxxers]

im just lazy.

[@shibainu9043]

lmao

[@goodtoseeya1543]

Same

[@zerobambiro]

Then do some lazy drawing

[@nerdinvader6740]

Get to work then you lazy fuck

[@arkinyte13]

Bam.

[@MindfulAttraction2.0]

Beautiful. I began drawing again because I have a lifetime to learn. I can just imagine in 10 years how amazing my art will be 😁😁😁

[@lovelifedrawing]

Yeah that's a great way to think of it! It's just amazing what is possible with consistent practice over a long period, especially if you challenge yourself.

[@dragonicbladex7574]

How is it 6 months later?

[@arlenek6797]

im 47 an just started drawing I feel I missed my calling.. Lol

[@chrissizemore1772]

Arlene K didi

[@discountfunnyman]

Well damn there goes my last excuse let's do this

[@prim1791]

How's it going?

[@orange-ish4833]

I think this is the best comment ever 😂

[@randomlilith]

I hope you haven't given up, keep going/try again!

[@nuko-x]

don't give up man, if you do get back soon

[@Bijirin]

Sooo, are you an artist now?

[@nune6845]

08-07-2021 Going to post this here and will come back over a year to post an update. Thanks for the inspiring words.

[@Auxora]

Don't forget the most important thing is LOVE and PASSION for the arts. I know so many people who don't draw and use the excuse that the reason they don't draw is because they CAN'T. I surely didn't wake up an artist. It took years of practice. You have to love something enough to want to keep pursuing it everyday of your life.

[@lovelifedrawing]

great comment and quite true. i agree you need love and passion, but also even with those, doubt can still get in the way. so overcoming that doubt will let the passion do its magic. thanks for great input!

[@ErinHonor]

This popped up in my recommended and I had to laugh because it's what I needed more than anything. I'm 23 and have a really hard time not feeling frustrated that my art is far worse than kids a decade younger than me. I kind of had it engrained in my mind from an early age that if I didn't get good at something while I was a kid, it is too late to start. There are so many things that I have always wanted to do, but never did because I was "too old" to start." I loved drawing when I was a kid, and spent all my free time doing it when I was in 7th and 8th grade. I got made fun of a lot for the style I drew in, and it made me ashamed of my art. I wound up not doing art again (other than doodling a lot) for almost a decade and am only now just picking it back up again. I can't help but beat myself up over where I would have been if I had been working as hard as I currently am over the past decade.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey Erin, great comment and I think a ton of people would relate to everything you wrote. It sounds like you are very hard on yourself, and it really sucks that people were making fun of you. But that doodling a lot is a sign - art is for you and there's no point denying it! Might as well just get to drawing cos that need to draw doesn't go away. The free guide on our site linked at the top of the description is all about my own version of this same story - check it out if you have a moment, and good luck with you practice!

[@darth_hylian]

Don't worry! I'm in the same boat. Even just a couple years older & I feel like I'm improving more than ever. I'm going out of my comfort zone & drawing new things. Anyways don't get caught up in comparing. Even doodles can have a unique style to them. Try to practice things you're not used to. Hopefully you're still drawing now

[@danielhanssen8664]

Erin, I am in the exact same boat as you. I am also 23, and just started drawing again after a 10 year break. I also got made fun of, because I drew all this nerdy stuff, bullying didn't help either. I recently started again and at first I got kinda sad my style hadn't changed alot, but then I got really happy all the sudden. Drawing is bringing me back to the good times from when I was a child got genuinely happiness from drawing. Now I just sees it as continuing from where I left off. The only difference is that now I am learning techniques to improve. Don't give yourself grief for just having started again, you didn't give up, and that is worth celebrating. Best of luck to you!

[@jinsrj4806]

This is exactly what happened to me

[@stardust3349]

23 is nothing. Think about how you’d feel in 10 years time looking back now. You’d think wow I could have improved so much if I put the work in. I thought I was so old back then

[@DB-zo5ng]

This reminds me of American artist Steve Huston who said "If you're not trying to get better, you're going to get worse."

[@lovelifedrawing]

I am a big fan of his!

[@AlienBunnyRabbit]

I'm 27 and I've just started learning after a lifetime of doodles. Thank you.

[@milo14564]

My sentence is the same as yours, but instead of 27, I'm 54.

[@Samirxkhan]

The video is 100%! I started drawing a year ago. Practiced 4 hours a day but then it got to a point where I only drew things I was good at. Never really improved a lot because of that. Decided to draw things I hated drawing like hands and constantly drawing in different perspectives... Fast forward a month and hands are probably my favourite things to draw now lol! Challenging yourself is key! I just showed this to a friend who wants to get into animation and thought I magically good at drawing when really it was hard work behind the scenes. This video is a blessing!

[@junnaredd9912]

I hate drawing hands too and also feet. They always end up like a bunch of bananas dangling.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey Junna, when drawing hands, considering drawing the space between the fingers and see if it helps with the bananas thing

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey thanks for the great comment Master Khan! Yeah that challenging practice is awesome and when you overcome a challenge, you know you can overcome more and it becomes a snowball!

[@mythoughtsexactly2145]

Good job for you but to me, i hate drawing hands especially feet

[@oxlion6163]

I’m only 18 and I feel like I started too late. And I’ve drawing for most of my life, but I never really studied art. I just drew whatever I wanted. Only now am I starting to actually study art. Anyway thank you for this great video!

[@lovelifedrawing]

well that's definitely not too late! hope you keep practising and wish you the best of luck with it

[@oxlion6163]

Love Life Drawing thank you. Best of luck to you as well.

[@generaltytus]

@Patriotis I reccomend you read "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg

[@antoniocisneros4219]

Same , I'm 16 and I need to study more realistic anatomy

[@silverbowftw5225]

Same here! Just turned 19

[@PanzerMan332]

Thanks for the advice. Starting seriously at 20, I get super depressed seeing people even one year younger than me that are blowing me away with how simple they make their process look, and how good their art is. I'll try to keep in mind that drawing should be fun, not depressing, and I'll try to push my comfort zone little by little.

[@VariscoLuca]

Not many videos around like this. All very true and motivating. Yes left part of the brain keeps resisting. Take the joy of it and forget rest. Hugs

[@SnezanaCupurdija]

Thank you for this video. I am 57 and I've spent years trying to rationally put away my urge to draw and paint. The bottom line is - the moment when you realize that you just don't have a choice will caught up with you eventually.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Great comment, thanks! Sometimes it's easy to regret the wasted years, but i reckon it's just a matter of drawing and painting extra now!

[@ComplexAce]

I'm not as old (22) but I always found myself late, so I tried to take in the habit of "Whatever, I'm late but I'll still try, nothing to lose anyway" and right now it's the only thing pushing me on I hope to see some nice Artwork by a 57 Wonder, would enjoy it more than a 13 Natural

[@billykranberry6077]

You have no idea how perfectly timed this video is. My buddy just asked about this topic. This video saves lives

[@lovelifedrawing]

That's so cool to hear, thank you!

[@azzalos]

I just starting out and sometimes I dread it because it’s hard and there are failures but there are also moments when I am amazed of my progress. This channel is beautiful. Thank you my man

[@TheMYpad]

Started practicing when i was 13 - 14 and stopped after getting frustrated at not being good. This quarantine made me get back into it and actually tried to practice everyday and I really see myself improving. Im 20 now and I'm glad I came back to it.

[@majeddraws5104]

i am 38 years old now, and I started timidly 3 years ago!! and I feel way behind all of you!! and I'm pushing forward... I'm sad that my drawing can be compared to a child's drawing... but what can I do but to continue drawing like a child?!! my problem is: i want to rush everything... I want to be good at drawing and painting... I want to be good at drawing human figures, animals, landscapes and environments... I want to be good using charcoal, watercolors, and digital.... because I'm late, I'm juggling with too many balls...

[@luvill3461]

Oh boy, I know that feeling bro :') Let's make the fast and furious draftsman club haha

[@majeddraws5104]

@@luvill3461 😂😂😊

[@aenicolas]

​@@majeddraws5104 Turning 38 in 3 days.. and started drawing 5 months ago. It's not easy, but I think it's important to take it step by step while challenging yourself also. Internet is so full of resources (starting here), you will find guidance. But don't forget to practice A LOT. As Kenzo said, 1 hour of lesson means 20 hours of practice of this lesson. Do that and you'll progress a lot (much more than viewing 20 hours of youtube tutorials).

[@majeddraws5104]

@@aenicolas and that's what I'm willing to do! 😊

[@luvill3461]

kzbin.info/door/NPLX1hfy3Q8zr4eKvmhLGQ this channel is pure gold in terms of how to draw lessons, tecnical but so ilustrative; maybe you already know it but if you don't...

[@jodyb7784]

I walked away from an art degree and a passion for drawing and painting in my teens. As art was the only thing I was good at, I was devastated by criticism. Life took over but for over 40 years I missed it, it was a lost part of me. I have started again recently, yes from the beginning but with a mature head. Age should have nothing to do with art. I am learning so much from you and the other young artists on KZbin, more than I ever did at art school. The teachers back then were nasty, closed minded and focused on their favourites. NOBODY will ever have that effect on me again. I draw everyday even if its just a doodle.Thank you for your true words. 💛🙏🏽

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hi Jody thanks for this comment - so great to hear you are back into it. Both myself and Mayko (who runs this channel with me) have been negatively affected by nasty art teachers in the past. One of mine would just take a fat crayon, draw all over my drawings and say 'it should be like this'. I think there are great art teachers out there, but way too many bad ones that want you to draw to their specific taste only. Anyway, sounds like we're all back on track now and enjoying it more than ever :)

[@jodyb7784]

❤️@@lovelifedrawing

[@Lamzer_]

I'm 20 years old and I haven't drawn since I was 13 due to being discouraged during that time and was bullied for drawing but now 7 years later I have the courage to start drawing again. Going to see how this goes and hopefully it gets somewhere for me.

[@mythoughtsexactly2145]

I've been drawing since I was child but I didn't started drawing seriously when I was 16. I have classmates at that age who are really better than what Ive seen, especially from me. My low self-esteem self challenged them indirectly by constantly drawing on my ipad/phone. Then a couple months later I had so much fun drawing that I decided to improve for real. I'm 18 but now in university, with so much going on I've barely the time to create my art, not to mention that Im going to be an independent adult soon with a different job. I've been saying to myself that I'm too late but this video really opened my eyes a bit. I guess it sounds petty coming from an 18 year old but... "Keep improving even with the limited time you have, it's all the time you can discover yourself"

[@silverbowftw5225]

Just turned 19 and I’m starting! Used to love it a lot when I was little. It’s never too late!

[@peachpie7336]

i'm in college now and i just realized i want to he an artist. it's really hard now that I'm in nursing school

[@garysscaryfaeries3046]

Never too late. I really started drawing less than five years ago and I am 51 now. This summer I drew Pele Lindbergs Philadelphia Flyers white plastic goalie mask. What started out as something to kill time ended up probably the best drawing I have ever done. It now sits in my hobby shop with the Pele Lindberg memorial hockey card attached as a tribute.

[@lovelifedrawing]

hey that's awesome - when you are learning it's so motivating when the drawings go well like that

[@Inconvenient_NPC]

I'm starting at 27... wish I had started 10 years ago...

[@Raven-sx4ql]

Hey, I am 17 and I am starting .

[@herbatabiaa9986]

I'm fourteen. Good luck everyone! I'm hoping for the best results for all of us.

[@kshitizrai8854]

Same here!

[@melanievilla9204]

Karolina Kosińska I’m 14 too, I really want to start drawing and hopefully get good. I have no hobbies or talent and just hope I can actually be good at something loll

[@Inconvenient_NPC]

@@melanievilla9204 - Nobody is born with talent. Talent is a level of skill you have to work towards, and as long as you are prepared to put the work in, you'll get there (:

[@tender0828]

Bro... I'm about to turn 27 in a few months and I came across this video because I've decided to pick up drawing and have been watching videos for beginners lately. Now I'm not hoping to be like Van Gogh but that bit about him gave me a lot of hope tbh. Thanks man!

[@lovelifedrawing]

You can do it Angelo! yeah best not to be like Van Gogh in life, but good to have draw / paint a ton like he did

[@gmindset33]

I Wonder why you guys don't have more subscribers and views. I'm from Brazil, 32 years old, working as a waiter, trying to learn how to draw and make a living of it. Your message is amazing and just pushed me further to keep it going on. Thanks a lot (sorry bad english)

[@vfxRodrigo]

caso vc precise de tutoriais de desenho eu tenho uma colecao bem extensa. mas 99 por cento ta em ingles . principalmente os videos

[@gmindset33]

@@vfxRodrigo de boa man me viro em inglês. Se puder me dar essa força agradeço e muito. Pode add no Facebook, Whatsapp ou email...abraço!

[@vfxRodrigo]

@@gmindset33 passa o seu email.

[@gmindset33]

@@vfxRodrigo [e-mail]

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey Vini, your English is perfect! It's fantastic that you are learning to draw. Practice is so powerful when it's consistent and when you push yourself to learn. Good luck!!

[@shibapatrol801]

I'm 31, have drawn on and off most of my life but I have really been neglecting drawing the past five or so years and it has been difficult to find the motivation to get back into it. Couple months ago I learnt about inktober event and on a whim I participated and had a blast! It gave me a reason to pick up the pencil and pen, to produce a drawing everyday of the month and although it was challenging to find the time and energy everyday (ended up skipping about 7 days in total) it was the spark the reignited my love of drawing. Now I try to draw most days, even just for a little bit and seeing a little improvements here and there is what keep me going.

[@lovelifedrawing]

that's a great example of how a habit can be formed. i think new year's resolutions and that sort of thing should be designed to create habits, because they can trigger a long-term change

[@couch_philosoph3325]

As someone who drew a lot as a kid and teenager, but has only started again this week with a pause of like 5 years, i can also show some insight. When comparing my old drawing, at the time i was very proud of them (as i should have been), but now looking back, i see how much my drawings would have improved with technique (like anatomy and shading and stuff). But as a kid/teen you never do that, because theory and sketching is boring and you just want to draw your favorite anime or cartoon. As an adult, we are way better in doing stuff we dont want and challenge ourselves and look at theory. In my opinion, an adult who draws by studying an image carefully (where does the light source create the highlights and where the shadows) and they combine that with theory knowledge (like anatomy and all that), they can make an immense progress in about 2 years that a child or teen would not do

[@thehungrypole6527]

Your last point hit home so hard! I’m 33 and dipped in drawing and painting here and there, but only now, while looking after 2 small children, having the least free time in my whole life while running mostly on a battery that’s flashing red between cups of coffee, I have decided to learn art and to illustrate children’s books. I can not run away from it, unless I have an eye transplant! Thank you for making me realise it’s my fate!

[@lovelifedrawing]

Thanks for your comment. My wife and I both now somehow do more of our individual creative pursuits now that we have far less time, managing work and life with a toddler. All with a flashing red battery haha. Best of luck with your illustrations!

[@ZeroSumJ1]

Needed this. Thank you. Been doubting my art a lot lately and this is just what I needed to hear to keep me excited to practice

[@lovelifedrawing]

Awesome, so glad to hear that! good luck with your practice!

[@nopewmv3377]

"Turn TO DO into HABIT" Yes, this

[@lindacassidy9546]

Thank you Kenzo you are so wise and encouraging. I am 60 this year and have spent my entire life resisting... until these last few weeks. It has been stop start all my life with improvement but not so much as I ‘d like. A few weeks ago I threw loads of drawings and stuff away, cleared out my room and said ‘no more art’! I had a near break down, and realised I have to take. it seriously and practise... a lot. I just have to make it into a habit and just let go and enjoy it. The reason I’m replying is that for anyone else out there I just want to affirm that, Kenzo, you are so right. Thank you again for your videos, which, incidentally I originally I watched a few years back when your mum was drawing. It is never too late people, you have to do what you were born to do. Ignore the doubts and have fun😀

[@MrNerdyBrit]

I seriously started practicing Art when I was 21/22 I'm 28 now and I regret not starting much younger thinking that "If only I'd started younger I would be further ahead", although this may be true to an extent I think it's mainly peoples impatience that makes them think this, they want things to progress faster. Starting art later isn't always a bad thing as being a good artist requires a vast visual library and knowledge on a multitude of subjects , and I believe when you're older and have a little more life experience you can learn art quicker in some senses as you may grasp concepts faster and can pull from more knowledge that you have acquired.

[@maddieb.8514]

Yes!! This! I just started watercolor painting about six months ago and I'm 32. I quickly realized there's also a lot of drawing involved in painting and I was really worried I was too old to learn.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Great to hear the video resonated with you Maddie! Thanks

[@cassiejean4308]

Yes!!!! There's one point in this that I think is vital and a lot of people miss - if you try to replace your relaxation time with something intimidating it's not going to be sustainable. It needs to be fun and relaxing!

[@Thadnill]

I'm 27, and really a true beginner at drawing, and I really thought that it was too late for me to follow my artistic dreams and maybe one day become a skilled tattoo artist.. But after you posted that Van Gogh story, I just realized that I'm the same age, and it got me kind of pumped, thank you for that I needed it! 1 hour a day each day from now on.

[@lovelifedrawing]

awesome! good luck with it!

[@Nadotornadocat]

this makes me feel so inspired, i turned 18 this year and have been practicing for around 3 months, i find myself feeling very frustrated from time to time with my progress and angry with myself for not starting earlier but this has helped me gain some perspective. thank you for this

[@madnirab2341]

By far I have seen many art tutorial videos but you Sir, Have my Utmost respect for the sheer amount of soulfulness you put into this video. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey thanks! That comment made my day :)

[@amydodge6615]

There is so so much wisdom in this video. Thank you for existing and sharing, Kenzo! Giving hope and encouragement to this 27-year-old beginner.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey Amy thank you I'm really glad you enjoyed it. Being a 27 year old beginner is a fantastic place to be!

[@Uniacoty]

At the moment I can ONLY draw if I have a reference. So I'm going to be training starting today learning to draw my own creations

[@kiraunos2269]

Refrences are extremely important no matter how good you are. Experts use refrences all the time!

[@Niko-lm1qs]

noo unless you’re actually a pro use reffrences

[@orangepylon2060]

I would say go for a mix of first drawing with a reference to study a subject then don’t use a reference to test your understanding of drawing that subject then after your done look at the reference again to check your “mistakes”

[@Fisarro]

Thank you. I'm 33 and I stopped drawing 10 years ago. Now i want to try again and learn, learn, learn and learn. Thanks to your words you destroyed barriers I have made up by myself. Thanks!

[@lovelifedrawing]

awesome good luck Silvio! It's tough but worth it

[@BombXXplosive]

Thank you 🙏🏾🙏🏾 I’m studying graphic design at university and I’m not good at drawing but seeing this video I feel like I can push myself further!

[@lovelifedrawing]

That's great to hear! It takes a while to learn, but it's totally doable if you practise consistently. Having an eye for design is a good part of drawing, so I bet you'll be awesome with practice. Good luck!

[@stevenskadal]

Awesome! I'm a graphic designer and illustrator too. Truth be told, it took me a long time before I felt comfortable approaching illustration. I always felt like I couldn't do it, especially since I compared myself to people WAY better than me. I believe that EVERYONE is capable of illustrating. And everyone has their style. Some love to go realistic and others prefer a more cartoonish style. Keep pushing your designs and illustrations and you'll find your rhythm and style you enjoy most in no time.

[@maya-jh6iw]

Steven Skandal, wow I cant believe it, this could have been written from me! I always loved art and drawing but I stopped because I didnt found time for it anymore because of school. I could never decide what I wanted to do in life and never considered anything art-related because I thought I couldnt do it, I wouldnt be good enough to do it for a living. But a few weeks ago I decided to finally give it a go as I wouldnt find anything else I wanted to do in life. I am also going to apply for studying graphic design. It was a long time since I drew the last time but honestly I found that it makes me so happy to be creative again and thats why I know it is the right way and I shouldnt compare myself to others :)

[@yancowles]

53 year old here - I started dabbling in art when i was around forty although not that seriously but I took up plein air landscape watercolour painting about three years back after taking Nathan Fowkes' class online. Best money I ever spent and now, I'm reasonably competent at it but more importantly, I've found something I really enjoy. Granted, I'm now a watercolour nerd and constantly spend money on trying to find the perfect palette or brush but there's nothing more rewarding than going outside and capturing a moment on a small two dimensional piece of paper.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Great comment thanks Artur. I love Nathan Fowkes' online watercolour class too!

[@danowarkills4093]

I am actually very happy I waited until now to start. I'm coming up on one year of drawing, and I would not have progressed as quickly as I did without modern technology. KZbin tutorials and digital tools (vectors tools, massive supply of excellent references on the internet) have helped me get to where I want to be. I actually did try a few times previously over the years, but I never got good because I never knew how to get good. The tools are there for me now.

[@mistybloom4762]

Whenever I feel like giving up I put this on🙌🏼 patience and dedication is key

[@jlin592]

I’m 17 and I’ve been drawing steadily for my whole life but I’ve only started figure drawing and practicing from reference this year. I’ve never been demotivated because of other people’s art, and I think the main reason is that I have the mentality of “one day, I’ll be able to draw that” not of “oh that’s so good! My art doesn’t look so good”. With practice, I believe anything is achievable

[@aljuncati-an9690]

This is me thinking that why i am not started when I was young. Coz sometimes I feel lots of frustration. Thanks to your advice that it's never to late to an artist.

[@brendajeannewyche2294]

It’s never infuriating for me to see young people doing extraordinary things. It gives me joy to see it. Every time I see young people doing amazing things or being really good at something, it gives me a feeling of hope for this world. Because it’s not all about me. Our young people are the future of this world. I just needed to share that. But also, thank you for all of your brilliant, helpful lessons. This senior lady really appreciates you. ❤️❤️❤️😁

[@ElvisLivesUpstairs]

My gran started painting at 47. Her works are awesome.

[@PuppetMaster8707]

If I could draw a fox like that I'd be sooooooo happy

[@Jorendo]

My grandfather started to pain in his 70's. He went from a complete beginner, to someone who with ease could paint realistic things. Able to pain transparant glasses and such. It was amazing. I'm currently following a drawing course myself and looking forward to see what i can do in a few weeks from now. Going from complete beginner too, 35 now. USed to be able to draw things from examples, but never something out of my head.

[@lovelifedrawing]

hey that's great - your grandfather is an example for all of us! good luck with your course :)

[@Jorendo]

@@lovelifedrawing Thank you! And thank you for the video, i think many people have this idea they start things to late. I many cases, it really isn't. As long as you accept you might pick it up slower or have a bit more of a challenge then when you did it as a kid, but it is doable. My mother still believes she can't use a computer, but hardly gives it a shot either as her interest isn't there, yet my grandfather (yeah same one), made his own cards and everything on it so there is no excuse why my mother couldn't learn it ;) Just has to do with interest and how much effort you want to put into something.

[@paytonslater7213]

I honestly needed this use to love to draw back in elementary and in middle but i came down with major depression and anxiety and stopped. But i know i was meant to draw

[@idahagglund524]

I'm going through all your videos at lightning speed. They are so lovely and encouraging! It really motivates me to try harder to practice my drawing skills. Right now I haven't picked up a pen in weeks because of the sheer pressure I sometimes feel at making "good" paintings, and it makes me sad that's the case. But your calm explanations, give me the feeling it's alright to take things in your own pace, and make mistakes, even encourage mistakes, and learn from them! So, thank you for taking your time and making these for us!

[@katarzynawozniak8015]

This video came out in perfect time! I actually stopped drawing almost 2 weeks ago. Something felt off in my practise. Ive been drawing for while now and I defenitely made progress but almost a month ago I started to feel that I cant draw. This idea was so real in my head that everytime I was picking up pen I was becoming anxious and something that was enjoyable before became a nightmare. But then it is exactly like you're saying. At some point you'd always start wondering what if you never stopped drawing... yesterday after watching this video I had my first session in ages and it felt really nice as I didnt put pressure on myself. Really helpful video! Thank You!

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey Kat, great comment. I think people would be surprised to hear you felt you couldn't draw, because you are so good at it! But those doubts can creep into anyone's mind and stop you from drawing. In fact, I think sometimes it's when you get better that you can see more of how far there is still to go and that anxiety creeps in more! Considering your trajectory, if you can focus on the medium term and not the short term and not the long-term either, but just doable goals for the next 3 months or so, and keep practising that way for a few years, I can't wait to see what you'll be doing

[@katarzynawozniak8015]

@@lovelifedrawing It is exactly what happened! The better I got the more realised how far away I am... but in my head, even good drawings became really bad. It is actually really interesting how the mind works... Thank you! It is really valid advice. When I look at my drawings from 3 months ago I see massive improvement and it is encouraging:) Shifting perspectives isn't always easy though haha ;)

[@shirinshk5482]

Thank you ^^ this really helped. I'm happy to know that there are great artists that started as late as me (27). I see that there is still hope. Can't thank you enough. I think I'll save this to remind myself every day!

[@nizealei]

Ahhhh, this was refreshing to find in my recommendations. I've started to practice drawing again and I was slowly losing my motivation as I wasn't making as much progress as I want to. Thank you for the igniting that motivation again!

[@xllvr]

Needed this video. That last part about always regretting that you didn’t earlier strikes me so hard in this phase of life where I’m trying to learn how to do a few things (art, learning Japanese and guitar) again after sparse effort in my younger days and I’m always filled with regret about it but this was encouraging. Saw this and your video earlier in the week of 2021 and really appreciate this.

[@talent103]

mind blown! : "Is it TOO LATE to learn to draw?" That's not a question that is a doubt. a nugget of truth that blew my mind.

[@kapsican]

This video leaves me with such a great feeling, I don't quite know how to describe it, really. Just hearing you talk about this (your soothing voice also helps) and breaking it down like that makes it seem like such a positive thing. I personally feel like it's especially intermediate artists that have practiced for a long time (e.g. starting as a child) that are the most insecure (especially as they progress into adulthood), or at least that's my situation. Because you feel like for all the work you've done you should be better, but if you actually think back, all the work you do now is something your younger self would have been so incredibly proud of. Iris Scott once said, she works for the 80-year-old artist she will one day become and I think that is such a beautiful mindest and a much healthier goal than 'I want to be good now'. Never give up! Also, the drawing you're doing is incredible, the merged shapes really speak to me. Keep up the great work!

[@lovelifedrawing]

Thank you Charlie! Cool quote too thanks for mentioning it

[@mintgreen5614]

i think that this is by far the best motivational video ive seen. its not overly dramatic with super smart quotes or overly cliche life advise. it comes directly to the point, tells the truth and talks facts. really, really good job.

[@otomachiunagi4208]

The great thing about art, is that your style is always changing. Ever since I got my drawing tablet about 5 months ago, my art has gone through so many different styles before I found a couple of techniques that make me happy, and that other people enjoy. I hope to continue producing art, it makes me happy and lets me put people/characters in situations that others haven’t seen before. Art is putting imagination to life.

[@Gibbontake]

That last graph made me laugh cuz i had that exact thought a few months ago. Glad to know it's an idea that other people have thought about. Its always the best way to get myself out of a rut, to know that no matter how bad my drawing is now, my average is increasing

[@kez_4184]

Great message :) I was also lowkey insecure to younger people who drew better than me..but now, Im proud of artists young or older as long as they r enjoying

[@wintermusicality]

Thank you for your insightful inputs. You stated everything I never thought I needed to hear and for that, I am beyond grateful. May your days shine brighter! ✨

[@StevenDempseyArtist]

Ken, such a great channel. It’s so rare to come by a channel on KZbin that has a soul. Everything you say is encouraging and inspirational and genuine. I painted a little when I was younger but am now coming back to art and really want to learn to draw properly this time around. Your channel is exactly what I need for technique and the requisite kick in the butt to keep practicing. Thank you very much for what you do.

[@lovelifedrawing]

thanks Steven that's awesome to hear :)

[@andysilvamoreira641]

Ken, this channel keeps getting better. Your voice is really soothing and I just can't express how much watching (and putting into practice!) your videos has helped me, so, thank you!

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey thanks Andy! that's made my day :)

[@AmyJackson-_-85]

I've been struggling lately on my drawings in particular being not so good. He really hit ball out of the park.

[@surabhichavan9673]

This is one of the best thing I have watched today. Thank you for this. It has helped me understand how if I want to get better at drawing for my own interest it has to become a habit and not just a scribble in my TO DO!

[@pablor3138]

I'm 40, just starting out. Loving it

[@FlynnFromTaiga]

Thank you so much. This is the most inspiring and encouraging video I ever saw. Now I have no excuses not to start drawing.

[@lovelifedrawing]

Wow that is so great to hear! Good luck with your practice :)

[@PriscilladeCarvalhoNunes]

I"m so happy that I found your channel. Your approach of these themes is so empowering... We need to hear those things when we are not teens anymore but drawing is something we still struggle to learn, much of it because we think it may be to late to do so. Thank you (specially if you understood my broken English) .

[@lovelifedrawing]

Your English isn't broken at all. I'm really glad you liked it Priscilla. the perception of art in our society is really interesting. it's either seen as a kids' activity or for adults, it's in some weird esoteric realm. there's a lot of stigma around adults learning to draw for some strange reason. but we know better :)

[@carsonholloway]

This is really inspiring. I think it's important for everyone to have a growth mindset, as too many people I've met don't want to start something they've always wanted because of some silly worry about what others will think of them.

[@jettfueled]

I only picked up drawing again 3 years ago. I'm 27 now, and even though I feel a little bit of pressure from my age, I more so feel satisfaction with my art and how far I've come since picking it up again.

[@florribart]

Thanks for this video!!. I have 33, i always started and quit drawing, i don't have the consistency of practicing, and feel angry with myself for be like this. But 4 months ago, i started with botanical drawing classes, is one day per week, but it's MY time to relax, and i love it. (sorry for any mistake)

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey Flo that is awesome. I know what you mean about feeling angry with yourself for being inconsistent. Making it a habit is the key, and it sounds like you've started that with the botanical drawing class. Good luck!

[@Cortesevasive]

why u need to draw flowers ? what's the point ?

[@junnaredd9912]

@@Cortesevasive Botanical drawing is more than drawing some flowers.

[@andreanoniemus6282]

Thanks for the inspiration! I bought a drawing course about 12 years ago.. i never got to it. Wasted money.. and time.. many moments i wanted to take it up but never did. Somehow there seemed to be some mental block . Some voice in my had always naggin .."you're too old. Its too late to start now. You'll never be any good..".. Now 12 years later, lots of life experiences and lessons have passed. Im turning 50 in 3 weeks.. 3 days ago I found all the drawing supplies again.. including the sketchbook with my 3 early attempts. I took it out of the closet with the pencils. I turned on the laptop and went on KZbin.. and I'm hooked!! This video just shows up at the right time. Giving me even more stimulation to go on. Also I found out it works greatly therapeutic. Really awesome. My mind is so focused on what im doing that completely forget about all my worries and negative emotions. Which is a big thing for me. I tried meditating but drawing/sketching is it!! Just like you mentioned in the video: dont be too hard on yourself. Just start. Dont expect. Just draw.. sketch.. enjoy the process. Its awesome!

[@lovelifedrawing]

Hey Andre that is fantastic to hear. Yes I agree drawing can be very therapeutic (with the right mindset!) and it best to focus on the the process rather than the outcome. Being 'hooked' is a great sign because that's how you get good, and as you progress, you just get more hooked! Anyway, best of luck and thanks for the great comment

[@Musicienne-DAB1995]

Excellent video. This has cleared up many misconceptions I had, and I can relate to what you said at the end about quitting and starting over. Well done!

[@HermeticWorlds]

Your advice at the end about having doubts but carrying on regardless is so true - I realised last year that I didn't choose art, art chose me. I need to create, there's no other way around it, when I don't create, I just get more and more depressed because I'm not fulfilling my purpose. Over the last 20 years, I've started and quit drawing and painting many times, now I'm drawing every day in my spare time. It's a subscribe from me!

[@lovelifedrawing]

hey thanks Dominic. sounds like you've got the art bug. it's incurable so we might as well go with it!

[@AlexVoxel]

I keep drawing, even if i'm not good at all, i like doing it :)

[@lovelifedrawing]

that's awesome Alex. and if you keep practising, you'll probably get good without realising it!

[@gotd4m]

Will start going through your backlog. Thanks a million.

[@dontstayjkm8148]

Hey bro, I just wanted to say this video was beyond helpful. Thus graphs just made things so clear and I really appreciated the segment about just putting in the hours. I don't know, it was just empowering to sort of see the situation as "you'll get there when you've done enough to do so". It was a lot less about talent and a lot more about mindset and I'm so here for that! Appreciate you. (5.25.20 - 4:37 p.m.)

[@Jpjohnnyp]

I needed this kind of video to respond to the doubts I had. I even took drawing classes as an elective in college and i had a blast, but I fell out of it because I just felt like I wasn't going anywhere. Before any practicing or drills, I really needed to push my doubts away, and this helps. Thank you

[@CristianDominguezReloaded]

"it's never too late to change your fate" Good bye to yesterday - incognito

[@lordbeerus3383]

You brought back my inspiration level from 20% to 100%. Thank you!😊 I've been feeling less inspired the past month and am now motivated as ever to keep practicing and studying.

[@lovelifedrawing]

awesome! thanks for the great comment :)

[@BlakeGeometrio]

Been drawing all my life, but I got really dejected after a while. This video helped me get back in the groove. Thank you.

[@FarQuZeDesigns]

I know this video is of some age but i need to come back to it every now and then and everytime it helps me a lot to get my doubts off. Thanks a lot :)