5 Things I Wish I Knew as a BEGINNER ARTIST

[@dekuthecat4125]

I agree there is nothing wrong with drawing from a reference photo. When the "old Masters" were painting, cameras weren't invented yet. They kinda had no choice but to paint and draw from life. Photographs allow us to draw and paint things from all over the world without having to physically be there.

[@mar09435]

Have you heard of camera lucida?

[@julietteyork3721]

Well said

[@achillelalonde]

They also learned and copied ea others work. ….copy anything; it all comes from source anyway. One Source.

[@bagobeans]

And their work was good! Now, one splashes paint on canvas and it sells a million dollars. Many use computers and that's sad too.

[@Telindra]

The old timers studied other's art, and used those as references to practice from. So they weren't only painting or drawing from real life observation.

[@mariannejensen349]

The sketchbook is more for practices, quick sketches, to catch them, when ever they appear, just like musicians has small mics on themselves, because inspiration can hit everywhere at any time

[@LemonEyesNL]

Beautifuly said!

[@warrentan831]

I agree

[@tkraid2575]

True. Like, there are times where I just wanna pop out my sketchbook and paint or draw something without bothering to set up my easel, or prime a canvas and whatever.

[@plan4life]

I get it, but I don’t. I never really get those moments. If I want to practice drawing it is nearly always when I am at home and “feeling creative “. I never look at something while I am out and about and think I would love to draw that. But I definitely have moments when I look at a view or something interesting and wish I had my camera with me.

[@michaltakac673]

I find painting and sketching outside very enjoyable experience, although it’s a bit clumsy especially if you want to use watercolors of some other painting medium and not just sketch something with pencils. But i generally love to be outside and do everything outside, so that may be a reason.

[@cherryj]

Thank you. I’m 68 and only started 2 years ago so I don’t have time to dither around. I love creating paintings with pastel pencils and pans and have just started with coloured pencils. I just want to enjoy creating and learning what I want to know. I’m trying to squeeze 50 years of non arting into whatever time I have!

[@veronicac6969]

I can totally relate to what you are saying . I started during our pandemic lockdown last year. I am 65 years old and having a blast learning new things.

[@gerrid9092]

@@veronicac6969 I started about 4 yrs ago at 59. I love it, and hope I have years ahead to keep painting and drawing.

[@oscara8454]

I was curious about starting. I was actually just thinking to myself that I am too late. That starting to try at 20 is too much. That others have been doing it since they could hould a pencil. Thank you for reminding me of one of the things I like to say to myself. It's never too late to make a change.

[@gerrid9092]

@@oscara8454 Don't make my mistake. I held back because we had to choose between band & art in middle school. Then I always felt like I would be too behind everyone to pick it up after that. I envy you starting so young. Don't let anyone or anything hold you back from being creative and enjoying it. Have fun!

[@Skinnychelle48]

Me too! I’m 61 and I’ve been at it for a year! Love it!

[@KikkiF]

Agree and will add ”Earth without art is just Eh” And to all us aspiring artist: Keep working and enjoying your art and don’t let other tell you what’s right or not!

[@ananyamishra9700]

So many people Said to me that I have to draw by seeing objects around me not seeing a reference photo . It is really helpful to me as a beginner thank you so much ☺️☺️☺️

[@ms.pirate]

Same, looking at references helps me learn

[@positiveproductions6699]

I think I'm going to start reference now because I have learned recently from trying to draw from life that it helps me better if I look at a photo then actually trying to look at the object itself

[@tkraid2575]

The benefit from not starting with photos, as a beginner artist myself, is that I could easily draw anything from imagination without searching up many frames of a photo to draw something. Photo references are good when you want to have an idea about the kind of colors you want to play with, or a kind of pose you wanna incorporate into an original work. The dangerous thing about photo references is that it has the tendency to put one into a state of "if I can copy the photo, then it means I understand what's going on in it" when it fact it's the opposite. I'm not saying it's wrong to take photo references. All I want people to know is that photo references are usually reserved for the time when you've got your fundamentals right and you wanna look at photos for inspiration.

[@positiveproductions6699]

@@tkraid2575 Thanks for the advice I'll keep that in mind

[@DRT813]

@@tkraid2575 I agree. Drawing from photos is much easier than from life, because it's already a 2D picture. There's nothing wrong with using photo references as an artist, but for a beginner drawing from life is usually considered important to develop the necessary skills.

[@lir3379]

Mistakes: The point of a piece where I say " OKkkk time to branch out & experiment". Coming from a very poor childhood, my biggest obstacle was the fear of wasting materials so I never bought good stuff & was still hesitate to start. At 65 I still have a sketchbook that my Grandmother gave me at 13. I'd used 3 pages. Really too bad as the work is rather good. Your words would have been very welcome then & are a boost now.

[@farasanchez2618]

Thank you thank you thank you, over 50 years ago when in high school my art teacher said I wasn’t good enough to go to art school. I put off my enjoyment of painting and drawing and did other crafts to compensate. After all that time, a few years ago I found myself drawing faces just simple pencil drawings. It’s time to finish them, you inspired me and I am grateful.

[@maggietattersfield2859]

I’m 80 and during lockdown I started doing KZbin art classes. I love it and I have set myself the goal

[@maggietattersfield2859]

Of learning to paint and draw to the best of my ability by the time I am 100 (in 20 years time) if I am lucky enough to life that long. ❤️🎈❤️

[@snowimayko659]

Just because someone telling you that you are not good enough at something doesn't mean that they are entirely right, you can keep doing it, improve and make things in a way that makes you appreciate it. Not them. So don't let a person's word about your skill at something determine what you do in life.

[@farasanchez2618]

Thank you for your words you are right ‘We are good enough”

[@keziagreste]

Just yesterday my father was questioning my drawing skills cause I drew a realistic potrait of my cousins from a "picture". It'd be a lie to say that his words didn't affect me. But now I'm glad that I came across your video :) you're such an awesome person 💜

[@nordicpink]

And could your daddy draw that from a foto? A lot of people still can’t draw what they see, especially portraits. The level of judgment that comes out of people’s mouths just amazes me…and from parents to their kids. 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@annazilla]

People who arent making art are the ones that are quick to tell you youre doing it wrong! Remind yourself that there is no such thing as bad art as long as its what you love to do. You are free to use whatever you want that inspires you and sometimes it just isnt about you or your art, its more about them. Parents are just being parents! Do you and keep doing what you love.

[@zaraneon3968]

Even I experience this...I am in 10th now so my parents force me to study

[@morgansaturn1240]

@@nordicpink Yeay, that's kinda sad. I also had a lot of art shaming from my family. So now I just never let them see. I think we should not care this much about what the others think about what's "real art" and how it is supposed to be, and even what we are supposed to draw. Art is for ourselves. Let's just draw or paint whatever we want to. =)

[@pumpkinpepsi]

When I was 15 I drew 4 hand studies because someone told me that hands were the hardest things to draw. My mum and her father were both super talented artists and my mum had never been really judgemental or anything but not really supportive either, just not paid attention to my art or I didn't show her. But she went off on one saying they weren't good and I "spent too much time on the analysis" (they were for school, and the analysis took like 5 mins cos I've always been able to bs academic writing quickly). But they were good. The shading wasn't great (I used to go very hard and dark with 5 and 6b pencils) but the proportion and angles were right and I spent ages drawing them from grids. This shit bothered me. But I didn't believe they were bad, I was just mad that my mum couldn't see they were good, or that she was pissed off with me about something else and just saying that. 🤷 I'm 34 now. I still draw hands. And people who say that shit are often making what to them is a throwaway comment that we latch on to. Don't hold on to it.

[@KayBethBookish]

My biggest issue that I think I would have loved to know when I started out (like I'm not still a beginner at only 6 months in haha) is that art takes a lot longer than you think. I did a really terrible painting a couple of weeks ago and it took about an hour. Re did it this week and took three hours-funnily enough it turned out okay! So yeah, slow down and always expect it to take a lot longer than you think so you don't get fed up halfway through!

[@endlessstudent3512]

You call that slow? I usually need at least 10 hours for a good colored pencil drawing :O

[@KayBethBookish]

@@endlessstudent3512 I'm still learning right now so obviously some day my skill level will be high enough to need to spend ten plus hours on a piece but right now I am still at how to draw a circle almost stage so yeah three hours is a long time for someone just starting out.

[@warrentan831]

It took me over a year to get to my current level, so I agree

[@NNG1314]

Yeah things take time!! Like in a test if you rush then you definitely will have more silly mistakes. Well done🙂🙂

[@RoryChronicles]

I had the opposite problem as a kid - I saved my good art supplies for the really good artwork... that I never felt good enough to do. I would tell myself to play with them and mess around to see what I could do with them.

[@TheTerrylwg]

A friend who is a magnificently creative artist, when I mentioned to her that I had no creativity, told me that's it's something you are born with (or not), insinuating that I was out-of-luck and would never have any. This was a terrible thing to say and so untrue! Creativity can be developed! Don't let others tell you differently.

[@ariellenathanson1640]

I like to tell everybody that they have creativity that they were all born with it, that people have been doing it their entire evolutionary history. That it's so natural to be creative as humans that children do it. its our weird adult thinking that gets in the way of our creative. That we have to prove ourselves (to whom? Idk) or show some natural talent OR have some sort of hardcore discipline "to make it". At a certain point when do you as the master of your life allow yourself to try things? Why don't we get to learn new things and suck at them for a while? Don't we make the rules? I find it really invigorating to try something new and really be bad at it, but to still be interested. And to continue to learn and grow through being really bad and maybe be really decent one day. I mean time passes no matter what might as well try everything under the sun.

[@vivianscircle]

You need better friends. No one paints masterpieces from the get go. Even Da Vinci went to as a disciple to learn to paint properly. He had talent sure but it was practice that made him the artist that is reverend around the world. It's mainly practice. Creativity is not "something you are born with". Creativity is there. All you have to do is practice and find what works best for you to express it. There are artists out there that do not know how to draw and yet they create amazing pieces. Pollock didn't became famous for his straight lines. He literally splashed paint all over a canvas.

[@craftyden8832]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYTLaZ6MYr99Z9k

[@doubtful_seer]

Creativity _is_ something you’re born with. You, and every human, are/were/will be born with creativity as it is part of what allowed us to evolve as a species! You just need to draw that creativity out. But never forget, you have that same creativity in you that our ancestors did that helped them survive and thrive. From creating tools to making life worth living, we all have creativity in us. It’s just how we train our creativity to work for us. And no matter your age, it’s always possible to train your creativity in new ways.

[@parthsavyasachi9348]

If one has common sense then it is all that is need for most things in life.

[@jameslyons9229]

As someone who's been drawing for five years now, I can agree with every point, especially the expensive art supply one! I remember thinking I needed expensive copic markers to make good art and so I was confused when I got them that my art didn't MAGICALLY transform. Even with the most expensive art supplies, you still need the skill to use them.

[@btsarmy-yd6ri]

after 4 months of drawing, i have improved so much that i cant believe. i learned so much from you.thank you.

[@markaaron142]

I remember when they say using grid is cheating but when I saw other professional artists using it I told myself why do I need to listen to others opinion if more professional artists do it and that really helps me on doing my own styles. I really love this motivational videos even I'm not begginer anymore I really still need some advice and this really help me. Hope you keep doing this kind of videos. ❤️

[@leonardo.diCATio]

The idealogy that you can even "cheat" I'm art is so odd. Art is art, I feel like cheating can only go to tracing or copying and sharing it as your own. And even so, that's situational. Use what you want to use to make beautiful art, because in the end, art is subjective.

[@DiegoB0525]

After my surgery I started using cheap supplies until my skill level got better again. Nothing wrong with doing art with cheap supplies. Great video!

[@MissT3871]

I use cheap supplies as well as a beginner. I'm learning to draw for fun and can't justify spending a lot on supplies of I'm not selling and it's just for fun

[@achord9204]

Treat yourself, I used cheap pencils and realized the difference between them and it does affect my work

[@achillelalonde]

First of all thank you for this video, a fine gift for beginners, as well as artists at all levels. I’ve been earning some of my livelihood creatively for over 50 years, and several of your tips were very useful for me to hear at the age of 73. I wll take the Liberty to offer feedback and add to your offering. Hopefully you’ll not take offence, as this video seems genuinely intended to support folks. Beyond allowing ourselves to use reference photos I would encourage people to allow themselves to learn and be inspired from the work of other artists. Part of classical training has traditionally included spending hours in museums copying the work of the masters. Japanese classical art includes repeatedly copying specific pieces over and over. Learn any way you find works for you. As to fine art supplies, I agree totally, use whatever your budget allows. That being said, I had a teacher ( on KZbin, my art school) who early on encouraged us to use the best you could afford, and not simply the cheapest because ‘I’m not good enough yet’. As a watercolour artist this is particularly important with respect to paper. Good paper makes a huge difference for that medium, and if you learn on cheap paper, your work will not only progress more slowly, but when you switch to better paper later you will need to re learn to work differently. I particularly appreciated you encouraging us to try different styles. Even after 50 years of I still have a tendency to judge my work harshly. For the past few years I’ve done photo realistic painting, and thought there was something wrong with that because it wasn’t creative enough. I saw other artists who were far “looser“, I somehow was ready to put my style down as not ‘artistic’ or original enough. Do what you enjoy, and perhaps also explore outside what you judge yourself good at, or comfortable with; allowing your work to change and evolve. Also allowing yourselves to try different mediums; over the course of 50 years I’ve worked in many different mediums, as well as working at dozens of other professions; some not related to “art” whatsoever. You might want to consider the notion of the art of living. As Hellen Keller said something like, life is either a great adventure or nothing at all. Enjoy it all thoroughly, even the tough bits.

[@horttulfnexo]

Wanted to adress the same points. Could not agree more👍

[@beckyr1668]

Thank you for this added perspective!

[@achillelalonde]

@@beckyr1668 most welcome. Likewise thank you for your contribution to my own process.

[@Beruthiel45]

76 year old here with the same thoughts. Thank you. I recently replenished my supplies after a hiatus due to serious life threatening illnesses, and decided I was going to please myself as to what I worked on, which medium I liked best, and to try out several others I'd been afraid of from paying too much attention to art professors. After I'm gone my family can keep or toss out my endeavours. I won't know and it won't hurt me, but I'll have had the pleasure of creating something again and enjoying the process too. I'm never going to be a Rembrandt or any other genius so why beat myself up? I tried, and improved, and learnt, still doing so, which means I haven't, and I'm not going to, waste my time. 🥴

[@MichelleMoreusArt]

Well said. thanks

[@sonijam]

I like drawing in a sketchbook because there is less pressure and kindles my creativity when I'm not feeling particularly inspired and often leads to ideas that I can explore later in a painting.

[@neyt2165]

#5 Tip hits me hard. I would rather spend 2 months in a single piece of artwork rather than just random sketches. I thought I'm the only one that's not into fast sketches. You are really inspiring and an eye opener for artists like me huhu. You have my gratitude!🖤

[@carmenf.desousa-aritst3044]

My thoughts exactly....

[@dianaclift9271]

I love the "real artist" analogy, the poor, struggling bohemian who eats, breathes and lives art. I believe that art is a sense of being, how you feel when you create. Enjoy creating art and if you make money along the way, well done you :-)

[@linl344]

Thank you for talking freely. Isn’t that the definition of a true artist? It’s great that you speak from the heart.

[@1southpaw2]

This is good advice/reminders for artist of all levels. Thanks so much.

[@donnarosebusa3863]

I've been procrastinating...thank you for making me realize I can just start. Just thank you. You're absolutely right. On all points.

[@judithjeffers7666]

The part about having to have best pencils, brushes, really hit home for me. Back in the late 60s one of my first color sketches was done with children’s colored pencils on typing paper. At the moment I’m working on wire wrapping/weaving jewelry. This group of artists that I met online have been the sweetest and most helpful I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.

[@Disirablepossessions]

Thank you Kirsty, this was a lovely video and as an older beginner, I can relate to most of your advice.

[@nishisharma7256]

A had an art teacher who constantly told me that I am not making good art at any of the competitions and I should make art like one of the friend did but since I gave my opinion more importance , I am happy today.

[@Eva-em6uj]

I guess I can be glad that I never really had all those thoughts and concerns about my art. I‘m not looking at my art in a way of always pointing out the smallest mistakes I made and then hating what I just drew. For me it‘s mostly about realizing what I could do better and to have a plan about what to change and practice. I also always knew that I didn’t need the craziest supplies and I knew that reference photos were just something to help me figure out what colors and shades I needed for certain parts of my drawings.

[@marywhaley4675]

I found that doing doodle art, cartooning, and the repetitive tangle art helped me to greatly improve my drawing skills. Thank you for all you do.

[@khategarcia6737]

Thank you Im still a first year college student taking this course and this is a huge encouragement for me thank you☺️

[@glynjones5702]

I totally agree with you Kirsty - do your own thing and follow your own personal brand of individuality. I am 72 years old and have spent half my life being told that my way of doing things, from spreadsheeting to art or even working in the kitchen. If what you do works and you feel more at ease with your methodology, don’t listen to the stick-in-the-mudders. These types of people rarely improve themselves.

[@kittykatsfc13]

Can u do a video with you earlier artwork when you started art? I would love to see how your artwork progressed till now. Thank you for all your amazing information on art 💞💞💞

[@mlicj]

An artist, possessing and living positive energy, an encourager of others....what more reason to subscribe and keep her in my resource art teachers? Thank you Ms Kirsty...👏👏👏👏🎈🎈

[@mizuki2264]

Yeah, whenever I draw from references I always keep being harsh on myself. I drew my favourite drawing using a bunch of different references because I don’t have a great photographic memory (or memory in general) but now I’m starting to like it thanks to this video :-)

[@sudhanshuchoudhary17]

you are really awsome,i started following you before 3 years from now ,and trust me i have got huge perfecting in my work ....You are really nice in telling hard things in simple way, BIG FAN ma'am KIRSTY PARTRIDGE...love from INDIA.

[@juststartingover2735]

Thank you! I needed this, it validates my decision. I got so overwhelmed by all the materials and expectations I ended up doing nothing..frozen by fear of not doing anything worth sharing. Ultimately I got rid of most of my art supplies, keeping very few and out of sight in case one day I decide to try again. I feel better now, no expectations, no guilt.

[@artistnyX]

As a young, budding artist I've learnt more from you than any other teacher in my school I really appreciate your channel and tips so so much Love from India ❤️

[@grantharper6033]

Wow, Kirsty, this video is perfect and some of the best advice I have heard a professional artist say. Demonstarating the use of cheap or economy materials was brilliant because the actual creating art is far more important than worrying about how lightfast those crayons are or how long will the piece last. Initial drawings don’t need to last for years and years. Artists on social media definitely don’t post all of their work, but choose the best. Look at a photographer, a creative person, who will take multiple shots of one pose to get just the right image they want. As for the ‘rules’ and what the masters did….can anyone honestly claim that Da Vinci wouldn’t want to master Procreate or Photoshop digital art given the opportunity, or that Caravaggio wouldn’t be delighted by the layer modes for applying his glazing layers to create such intense colour? I wonder how your old art teacher would have gotten on drawing a lion head if she had to be sat just two or three feet in front of a live lion of the plains of the Serengeti 😂😂😂. Might be worth treating her to a safari holiday just to see! Brilliant advice from a brilliant artist who is relevant to todays expectations and demands along with current tools available. Remember, the old masters had to mix their own paints from raw pigments, they couldn’t nip on Amazon and order a tube of fine quality Windsor & Newton. And who these days wants to buy stuffy, dark oil portraits of family members?

[@jamieedie1005]

Thank you for making this video. It touches on thoughts and issues so many of us have. I once had a teacher tell me if I couldn't follow exact methods given to me or draw exactly what I was told in the same style that I would never be a good artist and never create a good piece. I learned that everyone has their own style and methods to achieve the look they want but it doesn't make them wrong. Every person can try to recreate the same exact thing but it will always look different because of this. One thing I would love to add to your rules is just because you have kids doesn't mean you have to stop working at it. I gave my art up for 12 years because I had kids and then realized that I didn't need to so I picked it back up. I wish I would have continued and sat down to teach the kids when they were small. We could have had art time together. Anyways, I really enjoyed this advice.

[@dhanashreechaware9568]

When you were talking about drawing only from real life objects and showed drawing of a tiger it was honestly funny

[@deannamiller2710]

I thought the same thing. That art teacher would have a really hard time drawing tigers lol

[@keziagreste]

How about Dinosaurs? That teacher will have to invent a time machine for that

[@craftyden8832]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYTLaZ6MYr99Z9k

[@nerdmaid1240]

Haha exactly. I mostly paint woodland wildlife. I'd spend half my time chasing squirrels and asking them to sit still.

[@hummingbird828]

I love your explaining style. It's so sincere relatable an non judging. Thanks for all the good advice!

[@MaryPrasadArt]

Some good advice for beginners! I would just like to note that if artwork is to be sold, the materials used should be lightfast, which usually means artist quality and higher cost. Also, beginners may struggle more with lower quality papers and other supplies. Artist quality materials are typically more highly pigment and the papers also more durable.

[@glenndykes7732]

Agree with everything you said and I also prefer to sit down in my studio with reference photos to draw and paint . I’m 64 years young and I simply will not let anyone tell me it has to be a certain way . I have refused invitations to local art guilds and commission work because it’s FINALLY about what I want to do as artist . With this mindset I’m learning so much now from artist like yourself it’s just been a blast .

[@endlessstudent3512]

right, I remember taking a class for nudes. The teacher showed drawings of masters like matisse etc. And I had the audacity to say that I do not think those so very great and that got her fuming. She did not accept any critical comment. And then I drew the nudes different from standard, i experimented with composition, colors, shading etc. She always told me off, for doing WRONG because i did not follow the old masters. I left that class, because art should be free and not restricted to a norm, like math.

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

I’m a self-taught/educated artist (4 years now). I started out with the cheaper quality art supplies and worked mostly on my basic skills for drawing/sketching/Watercolor. I used & still use reference photos (mostly from my own photographs). As a matter of fact just this past spring 2022, I upgraded my art supplies after using up all my cheap supplies. I have not tried to selling or actually making a living from it yet. I usually give away some of my artwork to family and friends. Thanks for sharing this wonderful video!

I always remember my art teacher saying that you should practice art every single day. And when the book, "Art before breakfast" came out, I thought that's what I should be doing. Just like the book, "Mini Habits" talks about 1x push up every day. But I much more prefer longer exercise sessions, so that I can fully relax, but also push myself harder. By the time I've showered and dressed and got my bag ready, what good is it to be rushing back home after just 15 minutes? It's the same with sitting down to my desk. By the time I've moved the computer screen and keyboard off the desk, and laid out my supplies for the project, I might as well keep it out for that day or two, instead of rushing to tidy it all up again. 🙏Thanks for sharing this video and all your other videos! 🤗💕

[@deborahmercer1897]

I totally agree with your concept that your own artistic expression should not be based on someone else’s idea of who an artist is. My first art teacher taught me that creativity blossoms from practicing your art in a way that reflects your own style, feelings and sense of enjoyment.

[@OrganizeCreateDecorate]

Very good advise, Kristy. I was very lucky to never have anyone tell me how I had to do something creative. In fact, pretty much the opposite. Being an artist is expressing yourself. Whether that's with a photo or looking at the real thing, it'll always have a your interpretation of it in the final creation.

[@mcfa0251]

Thank you, this is really wonderful. I admit to get taken up with trends, trying to find what I want to do, need to, must do or should do in art. Now retired it would seem I have all the time to do art, but sometimes I want to crochet, sewing on my treadle sewing machine. I also HAVE to maintain the house, and repairs, painting, replacing siding...... I love to make art, I draw while waiting for appts. but drawing from daily prompts every day becomes a chore or obligation to be like other art makers. I'm 70 yrs old been making art since I was a child, but for this year of being retired and making art, FINALLY I like my style of art, not photo realistic, but realistic. This video just validates what I finally relized recently, I am an artist and my style of creating art, painting or drawing is good art. Thank you, love this video

[@travisnobleart]

It's absolutely amazing how far I'll go on a project before really sitting down with my feelings and coming to the realization it's not something I want to be doing. I would have saved so much hardship had I only had that self talk sooner. I am learning to listen to my feelings more, and it's a practice as much as the art.

[@jadedenthusiasms]

I'm happy I saw this :) I rip myself apart over most of these things and have had a couple people (not ones I keep around me often) that have said the thing about real artists don't paint from references, even though they are my own references from my own photography, and it definitely made me feel I was correct to think I'll never be a "real" artist. When my husband or son, or anyone says I'm an artist I say "oh no no no😳 I just started in my 40"s out of necessity for a beautiful outlet but it's never anything great!" Cuz I feel embarrassed for anyone to think that I think I'm good or a real artist. But your video is great and so true!! Art is supposed to be just someone's own expression of whatever they're feeling...so I don't understand people that tear down others because they feel someone's art is too easy or not real art....to me its just feelings put out there amd it can be done in SO many different ways whether traditional art, drawing painting or cooking or dancing or singing or many other things...when its a personal expression of their passion I feel its their art. My issue is that I absolutely feel that about others...but not myself :/ so, I'm working on it :) but these were great reminders! Thank you so much!!

[@definecoco27]

You definitely have a point! And it makes sense in what you do. When you focus on what you design. This is quite beautiful and very challenging and creativity is always your best choice in life.

[@paulamarieart]

The last 2 points have really hit home with me. I'm definitely a graphite pencil girl and definitely without a sketchbook but have been feeling the pressure to conform lately. Prints have never worked for me either but it's so easy to get sucked into the trap of feeling you should be offering them. Thanks Kirsty

[@VitasArtworks]

You are right, it's totally okay by drawing from reference photos. But it's a nice experience to draw some things from live 😊 Every artist learn with every drawing or painting and improve their skills I think 😊 but I think with great supplies its sometimes also easier to draw with. Quality for quantity. Buy less, but good quality supplies. In some techniques the paper is really important for example in pastels. Pastelmat is expensive but a game changer. Or cotton Papier for watercolor. I agree Sketchbooks are not necessary, but it feel so free to draw in it 🥰🥰 I really enjoy it since last year. I am a bit more free within a sketchbook and not under pressure and I experiment more than before 🤭🤭 I really learn in it und make also little study 😊 thanks for this video

[@Annie.C.61]

I was told so often to draw from life and that it was "cheating" to draw from reference photos, that it was essential to draw every day etc etc. Your advice is invaluable and thank you so much for this video. I wish I'd had this kind of advice many years ago, however, even now at 60 I'm so grateful to you because I've learned something (as well as all the wonderful things I've learned from your other videos). Thank you for all that you do, especially your free stuff as I'm on a limited income but I'm saving hard so one day I might be able to do your other courses. All the very best to you :)

[@metatechnologist]

#1) The problem with not doing this is that the light can change for various reasons which can mess up what you are doing as a beginner. Really good point.

[@jenniferterry5540]

Hi Kirsty Love your channel, I too had an art teacher that discouraged me and I didn't start painting realism and find I was a natural till 15 years later! I too found my self pleasing others with commission work I didn't like, instead of only painting what inspired me. I love painting animals, landscapes not so much. Never had the confidence for portraits but thanks to your tips I'm going to have a go!

[@larryglatt2548]

Thank you for the advice in this video. At 83 I'm not trying to be a full or even part time professional artist, I just want to draw what it is I like to draw. I made some of the mistakes about equipment purchase you commented on & later realized the error & expense. Also, I realize that the daily drawing "exercises" I did were helpful for me to get to the 'meat' is is that I am drawing or painting I wanted to do. Again, thank you.

[@b_hanock4388]

Every time someone would tell me to learn to draw from life I would doubt myself because I just could not do it well. It really prevented me from exploring and trying new things because I eventually began to think good art was only the art that others would appreciate, which meant trying to stick to what worked, which meant every mess up just led to a lot of frustration. Over time I just stopped trying, because I didn't enjoy doing it anymore. The free time from Lockdown made me want to have another go at it. Thank you for the video, it really gave me confidence

[@banger355tw]

I have to say that carrying my sketchbook with me has improved my drawing tremendously. Maybe it’s just the type of drawing one feels in touch with. Art can be done for many reasons. Moving around your drawing quickly can push and stretch your abilities. A sketchbook is your laboratory, your journal, the zen in your meditation and your best friend. I caution you against downplaying the ever present lifebook (sketchbook). I fell in love with mine again this cold windy morning at the lake. My studio.

[@chiptenor]

Kirsty, everything that you said is really 'down-to-earth' good advice. In the creative process, 'one size does not fit all'. I believe your comments probably took a lot of 'strain' off many artists that it's OK not to necessarily always follow the 'supposed' accepted ways. Thank you.

[@ahmedalmurshidi2638]

You are an honest person, you are genuine and that is the most important thing, no one is born perfect, and you are right, we shouldn't let other people's opinions let us down.. you said it, everyone makes mistakes even the best of us. thank you for your nice words that always support us and make us feel good about ourselves even if we are not in our best shape. bless you.

[@YashSancheti_Art]

Thank you ma'am, I am a beginner artist in KZbin & your videos always inspire me to create better and better. From India 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳

[@connieebinger6343]

Hi Kirsty! Thank you so much for this video! I’m a beginning artist and have been thinking all of these things, buying whatever watercolor palette people are using in order to get the colors and the quality they’re getting. What you’re saying makes so much sense! I love giving myself permission to just create what I wanna create and not what someone else thinks I should be creating in order to make money. I love your drawings! They are gorgeous!

[@alice_inwonderland1083]

The beauty of being an artist is that its YOUR expression of what you see :)

[@krystallindsey3378]

This was very helpful. I would have to say the most helpful advice you shared for me was knowing there are multiple ways to make an income as an artist and that you don't have to sketch everyday. Do what makes you most happy.

[@mornasev]

I never even knew 'reference photo' was a thing. Like you, I was taught to draw what I see, which I'm not good at. I stumbled on one of your videos months ago (thank you weird YT algorithm) where you used a reference photo. Oh the world that has opened up to me! I'm actually a pretty good artist! I have a lot of learning to do, but I am on my way now and I actually love drawing/painting! Also, thank you for your presence on this platform. If it weren't for you, I would have never known how much I needed art in my life.

[@endlessstudent3512]

This not using reference fotos bullshit is nerve twisting. I live in a big town. I I want to draw a landscape, I have to drive an hour. And then O only have flat land with a few trees. After doing this 3 times i was sick of it. I like more dramatic landscapes. Am I not permited to do so just because I cannot see such landscapes in real life? I mean who can afford to fly around the world constantly to draw these landscapes? Really???? Also i like drawing portraits. But I really do not know that many models that like beeing drawn AND have their likeness uploaded on the internet. So I draw from random photos. This whole topic is just misguided, really.

[@mornasev]

@@endlessstudent3512 I'm not sure what you're talking about, but before I knew that I could recreate an existing picture, I used to draw from memory. It made perspective very hard. I misunderstood the difference between 'copying' something (bad) and 'reference photo' (good). Never once in my comment did I say that you or anyone else couldn't do what they want. I was talking about my learning.

[@endlessstudent3512]

@@mornasev in short: I was saying that it is completly fine to draw from references as much as one wants

[@mornasev]

@@endlessstudent3512 I totally agree.

[@lindarusinko103]

100% true. Every artist should watch this video. Love your artwork!!

[@socalsal627]

Thanks for your comment about sketchbooks! I am the same way as you; I just don't get a lot out of it and I actually got a lower grade from my College art professor who forced us to carry a sketchbook and then turn it in at the end of the semester. I spent 3 frantic days trying to fill it with random things and I guess she could tell. It really brought me down and made me think that maybe art isn't for me after all. I am so relieved and encouraged by your comments on this because I do really love art but my favorite is to set aside several hours and work on something really in-depth! :)

[@amdawn01]

Great Advise Kirsty!!! Very encouraging and motivating for beginners and current artists. You've touch on some areas that I've experienced as an artist. I appreciate the confirmation you've provided!!!😊😊😊

[@ChrisR_68]

Thanks so much for this Kirsty, It actually helped me the 1st time in watched it, I just watched it again and realised I had seen it. It really helps to not get in the mindset of I have to be doing this or have to be doing that. Once ya let go of this 'have too' it's better, it just takes off a little pressure really and do what you want yourself to be doing of ya see what I mean,these 5 points are all really good cheers again Kirsty xxx

[@Mechanoid]

1:00 lesson 1 3:04 lesson 2 4:56 lesson 3 - although it helps 7:04 lesson 4 8:45 lesson 5

[@cryptogran]

I’ve just discovered your channel and I’ve spent the afternoon binge watching your videos. Now I have a real problem..... I WANT TO TRY IT ALL! At the same time 😂🤣😂🤣 There is no doubt that you are a great artist but honestly I think your real calling is that you are an amazing, fabulous and inspirational teacher. I agree with all your points, except I won’t tell my husband that you don’t need the best supplies, I’ll keep that one for myself 😜🤣😂😀 I look forward to continuing my journey with you 😀

[@funnypeopleswim]

I agree with all of your points. I too like drawing and painting from reference photos and just sitting and working for long session. I don't really like to draw from life/still life etc. Also I agree that you don't need expensive tools to make good art. At the end of the day the artist just needs to understand the tools. Great video!

[@natford8271]

“‘Should’ is a six letter expletive.” Quote from my therapist.

[@crystalheart9]

I learn more from tutorials where the artist makes a mistake and then shows how to correct. Thank you for this helpful video Kirsty.

[@keanberg4]

This was so helpful and in my opinion art is abt feelings and self-confidence like being yrself u do wuts make u happy and no one should ever tell u otherwise So I just wanna ty. U helped me a lot coz today my grandma was telling to do bball instead of art coz it’s there in the spring but I won’t be as happy and my mom can tell that. Just be ur unique awesome and have awesome day

[@reemzaghmout9932]

Thank you for this video it came in time for me I honestly always think what I will do with my art I wanna start an art carrier but I don’t feel like selling prints maybe I think of teaching or taking commissions but the most important now it to do what I love and that’s what will happen you motivated me through this talk thanks again and have a good day 😊😊😊😊

[@mariaadrian2751]

This video is exactly how I feel about drawing what I want vs. what others impose I should be drawing. I love drawing realistic portraits of dogs and other types of animals. Thank you for addressing that drawing what I love is exactly what I should do if I love it. Instead of venturing out in areas I really do not enjoy. Since I thought that’s what artist should do.

[@darleneracicot3034]

Art is a hobby a d love to learn from watching your tutorials. Thanks for your encouragement and guidance.

[@WhatAColourfulWorld]

You're the first person I've come across that shares my view on sketchbooks. Teachers in uni were always on my back about filling sketchbooks with tons of concept drawings for my paintings and whatnot, but I can visualise pretty well in my head what I'm going for and it just seemed like waisted time and effort. I just did the painting then scribbled some drawings afterwards and pretended I drew them for the painting.

[@endlessstudent3512]

same with me :D. Also: I like to draw sketches in different sizes and on different papers. I always felt a sketchbook limits everything.

[@anaperez5442]

Thank you for pointing out that having top of the line art supplies is not imperative when you decide to create your art. Also for saying that it's OK to use photos as reference for your art. Thank you for this video!

[@priangaveerasingam5141]

Journey is the matter. Enjoy your choices!

[@suzeca-22]

I was teaching myself to do watercolor painting last winter. I started following online tutorials then 4 or 5 months later joined a watercolor Facebook group. I immediately felt under pressure. We were being assigned photos to paint that were too hard for me. Many of the other members would paint theirs really fast and post them. I told myself too hard is good for me it will sharpen my skills. After a couple months I guess my skills did improve but what I found was that now when I sat down to paint I was anxiety ridden and overwhelmed, sitting in front of a photo I had no interest in painting. It was not fun. That is not why I wanted to learn to paint. One day I just stopped. I haven’t painted since may now.

[@gorillagirl7135]

Hi Susan, why not just get those paints and paper out again and just go for it, in whatever style and technique you feel may work for you? I agree it can be overwhelming to be in a group that insists on painting in a set style - doesn't work for me either. I have found that experimenting or just " playing" with different media, mixing up stuff and ideas, works best for me and " happy accidents" arise from time to time. Perhaps get a cheap " joblot" of supplies from an auction, then you won't feel you are " wasting" expensive stuff, and you can draw on old grocery packets, cut up magazines for collage, add scraps of fabric, etc. Only two rules - 1) oil based media only works on top of water- based, not the other way round, and 2) Have FUN! Hugs from London. Xx

[@arkheavyindutries]

I'm far from a begginer and I find your comment about sketchbooks really enlighting. I can't remember how many times I've bashed myself over not drawing on it so often, when in reality I don't really need it for finished work. Thanks!

[@marnierose7816]

I can relate to all of it, put off drawing for a long time because I couldn't commit to everyday, I did an emotion a day by googling a cartoon image and have many blank squares with prompts I have to go back and finish...I did however love this process and the nudge to do even 5 mins a day, and all the artists saying keep all your bad art and don't throw it away so you can look back and see how far you have come in 12 months, truly greatful for that advice. And it's funny to look back at when I put a nose where an ear would go and wonder what on earth I was thinking and realising my perspective is getting better. Art comes from within, I think we need to be inspired and take good advice from others but apply all principles to what we love to do. Thank you for an awesome video.

[@LaRaArtUnlimited]

Hope you are feeling well and healthy Kirsty. Love your videos and this is very useful in every single way possible way.. have a good day

[@claretmichelangeli3000]

I absolutely agree with you. It is a matter of expressing yourself!

[@crystinanna7829]

Oh my gosh the footage of the eyes!!!!😲😲😲 incredible!!! It totally distracted me from what I were saying because the eyes with wrinkles and watery looking ones were so brilliant!!😍

[@gregriessland1552]

I hate sketching I only do it get a feel of the piece I am working on. Daily random sketches really felt like waste of paper and time. I always draw from photos, lots people send me references and then I draw them in my style. It has been really great to build those relationships. Anyway keep up the great work Kristy and stay safe.

[@claritzairosario68]

Oh, thank you!!!😊 I don't feel comfortable with some rules, I think, the real artist must enjoy drawing and paintings, no matter where you are, or the materiales you have...because that's how we are, we are creatives, and and I think the rest does not matter🥰❤🥰❤🥰❤

[@Ilanshiran]

These 5 tips really make me feel good as a beginner artist. Thanks, Kirsty

[@farukhhasan11]

Hi Kirsty you are so young and a master artist. I really appreicate how you teach us art, drawings, painting, etc. May God bless you amen! This video is based on real life facts rather mystrious believes around a newbies artist.

[@Bassbarbie]

I think the sketchbook thing can help for people like me who don’t have a background in drawing. It helps me think it doesn’t matter and just observe and try and replicate what I see, light, shadows and shapes, with no pressure. I don’t feel I should do it daily or anything, but I do think it has helped my drawing skills…. a bit ha ha! Also when I bought some better pencils…. Oh my, how much easier it is to blend them and they are more pigmented. They are a joy to use!

[@lecolintube]

Only thing I’d add about the sketch book idea is that it’s really good to push yourself artistically (drawing when you don’t feel like is one way of doing this), and constant use sharpens your skills. Totally correct this doesn’t have to be drawing in a sketch book, (it can be sitting down to draw a 50hr image from a reference photo) - however making sure you keep pushing your self technically or conceptually is so valuable for your own art (I believe😉).

[@ceemarbella]

Thanks Kirsty your advice is so valuable particularly for beginner artists who want to make their love for art a living. I am one of those, although I am a self-taught artist in a very different genre, I think your advice is very sensible. I hope to become like you one day... doing what you love to do as a career. Kudos!

[@OloveMeowiesCreations-63945]

I believe it is important to draw what You love and in time with practice and enjoyment of doing skills improve and you come to like and ultimately love Your art creations! I will also say, keep those earlier drawings so in a year or so you can actually see how much you have improved! I will also say when those improvements seem insurmountable and so frustrating you could be on the brink of that aha moment of accomplishment! Never ever give up! There are many many many styles of art so do what feels right for you!

[@mikogirma107]

kristy what shall i say your the best you helped much thank you very much for all of your support :)

[@duamuneer6990]

Thank you kristy Im beginner and i always thought only some my drawing are good and others were really bad and most time i became sad but u really showed me tht not only me but artists also make mistakes🙂❤

[@suekatarynych8821]

Last year I watched two many videos stating that you need a sketchbook. Got a sketchbook and have not wanted to draw since. Hopefully this gets me back on track

[@ahmedalmurshidi2638]

yes, you can actually make good art with cheap materials, if you give it the time and effort, you can come up with really nice artwork. thanks for inspiring and supporting us.

[@beverlydepasquale1986]

Great great advise! I relate to all of it. The voice in my head is the worst. I am a terrible sketcher. However, I love to hyperfocus on a realistic drawing and spend time like that. I just felt like I am never going to be a real artist because it takes me a long time. Also, I am super critical of my own work. Recently, I went back and looked at some earlier drawings and one in particular jumped out. It wasn't that bad but I had taken an eraser to a huge portion of it in my frustration. Thank you for validating my feelings!!

[@ms.pirate]

How do i give this comment 30k likes?

[@Zogtee]

Good advice. it is best to just get started and explore what you want to do, and try to enjoy yourself.