The 10 Commandments of Art

[@mindofwatercolor]

These are well assembled points and excellent food for thought Mark! Tons of meaty discussion points here! I can see why students would like to talk about these. I can see a whole class discussion (or longer) for each one of these "commandments". Now...if you had only drawn 10 frogs...LOL, jk!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you for checking this out, Steve. Originally, this was going to be a 10-part series, but I found it was just easier to put it altogether in one clip and keep it cohesive and in context. Today was a day of eye-rolling from students! lol! I had to talk about final projects, grades, and grade percentages. I think they much prefer the more philosophical discussions about art! :D And just for clarification, I started with 10 frogs, but 2 of them bailed on me for a better paying gig. Frogs. pffft! ;)

[@mindofwatercolor]

Haha! Yeah, frogs...and teens. Whatcha gonna do?

[@dashphillip9704]

You all probably dont care at all but does any of you know a way to log back into an instagram account..? I was stupid lost the account password. I would appreciate any help you can give me.

[@remyharvey6345]

@Dash Phillip instablaster =)

[@dashphillip9704]

@Remy Harvey Thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site through google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff atm. I see it takes quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.

[@MeowMeowKapow]

Also, I think it's important to make mistakes. Like.... a lot of them. Which I think goes hand-n-hand with the perfectionist commandment and the breaking rule commandment. Honestly, to grow, you gotta mess up a whole bunch, accept that it is flawed, understand what about those flaws didn't work, and use that honest evaluation to grow. I learn the most in my work by messing up, and not letting yourself stall out when you're afraid to fail requires a mixture of bravery, fearlessness, and bullheadedness that is absolutely required in art.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you for your always thoughtful and inspiring comments, Meow Meow Kapow! I cannot argue your thoughts at all. In fact, in an early draft of this list, one of the original points was "_Failure is Your Greatest Success._" Pretty much for the reasons you stated, failing at something over and over and over means we just are never going to learn. However, when failure at something points us in a new direction - even just a single degree or two - then it means we've learned enough to move away from the mistake and toward success. I hope you are feeling better and getting plenty of rest! :)

[@BoomerKeith1]

Mistakes are vital in development. The most important thing to remember is when you are making mistakes (for me, it's daily) it provides an opportunity to learn and sometimes a "mistake" ends up being something better than you intended. I used to play football and we had a saying (there is an old saying that goes: "Practice makes perfect", this is a version of that): "Perfect practice makes perfect". Of course there's no such thing as perfection in the artists eye, but practicing perfect art leads to "perfect mistakes" (If that makes any sense). The bottom line is that artists (especially beginning artists) should embrace mistakes as opportunity.

[@anniemadera5570]

I wish I had had you as a teacher when I was younger.

[@MDCampbell]

That may be the kindest thing anyone has ever said to me! Thank you so much, Annie! I really appreciate that! Stay well! :)

[@matthewtaylor8248]

I used to do this. What mattered most to me at the time was my identity. I "was" a certain kind of person, and by clinging to that I could consider myself special, and sometimes even fool others. Actually practicing would just poke holes in that illusion and confirm for myself that I didn't have anything real to be proud of. The solution for me was just as you said: putting in the work to get good at something. It's difficult, and requires sacrifice, but I can do something that brings joy to others, and no longer need empty boasting to feel valuable.

[@MDCampbell]

Well put, Matthew! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and for checking this video out. Glad you chose to post this. Cheers! :)

[@alyssav2124]

I come back to watch this video (and some of your others too!) whenever I'm having a hard time getting myself to draw. I'm neuroatypical, so creativity is pretty difficult for me, but I never stop trying. Your channel has been a huge inspiration to me and I really appreciate your attitude toward the process of creation. Your patience when it comes to drafting a single piece or idea, and acceptance of imperfection in one's own work are traits I have particularly learned from. Thanks so much for sharing your work on here, and helping to inspire people of all ages. :)

[@susanmazzanti5643]

While taking a break at choir practice, I made the statement that perfection was what I said it was. What I was trying to say was that I had the right to judge what I was doing at that moment the best I could do at this time and others got to make the same observation about their work. This has allowed me to express myself much more freely.

[@katemoonkate]

I like the internal focus of this. How it's fun to be an artist.what amuses me is the profundity of the narrative while you draw those wild wonky eared frog guys..

[@carried9130]

Enjoyed this picture and discussion points. I was so into art as a kid, but I never went anywhere with it. High school brought a horrible teacher who could not explain her methods and was one of those who, if you didn't understand her methods or agree with her, you were crap, NOT an artist, etc. I did crafting as well but as my mid twenties came, I was caught up in full-time work and other things, and lost my whole drive with any art or crafting. I'm in my forties now, and what you said about the drive to create rang very true for me. A couple years ago, I jumped back into art with both feet. Trying a lot of things, which makes practicing one or two all the time not realistic, but I'm finding what I like to do by exploring different mediums. And I found that staying in the lines sometimes when coloring is not as easy as it was when I was a kid! I bought some sharpies on such a sale I had to get them, and just colored a page with them to see how it would go. As a kid, I'd color well and within my lines practically in my sleep, as an adult I have a few little mistakes here and there. It's funny how I expected my brain to just jump back into coloring mode when I haven't colored in decades. (And wow, to count time like that now...) So I'm learning to paint, relearning coloring and drawing, learning paper crafting and mixed media. And while I'm struggling at the new stages (always hated this part lol), I am loving the creating, and I rediscovered that special contentment and happiness I had creating something when I was younger.

[@ellenm7806]

Another great video, all excellent points you've brought up! It helps me to keep replaying your most motivating videos for company in/out of the studio as positive reminders to keep things moving along and maybe even to get me out of my own head, lol. Thanks so much for the much-needed talks, it's like having a friend that understands what's in my creative mind. :) Happy creating and a great week!

[@Lostpanda123]

Great advices! Thanks for sharing them.

[@recoveringsoul755]

So many Froggies!!! 🐸🐸🐸 So much Green!!! 🔲🔲🔲 My Favorite critters and color. Thank you

[@essietangle9931]

Im glad you are out there working with students. Learning to express ones self though art, music, etc is wonderful at a young age and throughout life. I appreciated when you said that there are times when you just need to say I am done. Bye, take care and lets all be an encourager.. Happy New Year!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Essie Tangle! Funny enough, I'm glad to be learning from these young people. I'm being taught a lot about patience, humility, and the art of listening more, talking less - which for me is a big deal! LOL! Thank you so much for your thoughts and your time! I hope you and yours are all doing well! :)

[@owingsart]

I agree with Essie. 👍🏻😃

[@rebeccashaw957]

I love your heart and brain. I need to listen to this every morning.

[@soucky1]

Oh Mark, first of congratulations for being the Teacher for these so LUcky students, tell me where it is i wan't a be your student because you are an Excellent teacher and this is somethings i had in my mind since the first video i've watch, i tought you wear a Psy. Mark i don't know if you realized the Good vibes and feeling so much better after heard you teaching us a lots of things. Every time i watch your 10 wathever things it's start to ding, ding on my head and Ge's Louise! i don't see my life the same way and i worked hard to change some very important habbits or things who bugs me since long time but you put your finger on it so....... i am obsess by perfections, i know i won't have the perfections on my Art but to me gave-up i just can't i remember i had to do plan for Artitic classes for every teachers and i didn't sleep for a full week because i was never satisfied until i show my plan to a collegue who told me come on Sylvie this is Perfect so i say are you shure??? Thank God i could sleep after that for 2 weeks in vacations at Bora, Bora LOL! Anyway i don't wan't to do a long comment but with you it's like i could sit and chat all day long because you are so intelligent, Brilliant, so mature and i don't know the world but it's feel Good. Thank You so much for sharing, chatting, Drawing, all of that on how 15mn. or so for myself i willthink of your 10 COMMANDMENTS for the rest of my evening and i will share every advices and meditated on your teaching lessons. I have lots of respect for you Mark, i really appreciated everythings you've share to make me feel better and gave me the keys to live on the better way my Head, heart and body are very Please to met someone like you Mark xx :-) Blessing!

[@cheridehart8625]

"Creative time is sacred". Definitely, It is my prayer, especially when I have difficulty praying.

[@nikeetasingh272]

I realise this video is a few years old but I wish I had heard these commandments 30 yrs ago when I was contemplating whether I take art or your standards subjects at high school. And I wish you were my teacher too!.....your words and thoughts show there’s nothing wrong with wanting to do art everyday!....I will definitely be taking these on board and changing my perspective on what I need to do for myself and not have to follow what people expect me to do. Thank you Thank you Thank you!🙏😊

[@MDCampbell]

I'm grateful for your time watching and especially your kind feedback, Nikeeta Singh. Thank you for that. Funny, but even though it's an older video, I went back and re-watched it myself. I still agree with the points I made, but the funny thing is that it's a strong reminder for myself to be the kind of creative person I want to be. It's kind of weird to learn from ourselves, but really... perhaps we are own best teachers, especially when years go past. Cheers! ~ Mark

[@65sunnyday]

Hi, Mark - I love listening to your thoughts about the creative process. Keep them coming!

[@lauradains2734]

I'm so glad that you have this opportunity to re-experience the class room. I hope that you are learning as much from the students as the students are learning from you. I also hope that your friend is on the mend and healing smoothly. Thank you for your always insightful additions to the conversation of the art world. You manage to phrase things so concisely and with no hint of condescension. Happy New Year to you, your family and your new found art family at the school.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, Laura Dains! I appreciate your comment about "no hint of condescension," as that's always something I worry about. The last thing I would want is to come off like a know-it-all blowhard! lol! As for learning from the students, well, I'm constantly amazed at the things I'm learning from them - most of which has nothing to do with art, but being a humble, quieted adult who can listen and provide meaningful feedback for young people that move at a speed much faster than me, but who process conceptual ideas far slower. It's really eye-opening and inspiring! I hope you and yours are all doing well, too! Cheers! :)

[@missdeon4907]

1. We do not own our creativity. It is borrowed from the universe. 2. Art is NOT about Money or Fame. 3. Art is a self portrait 4. Creative time is to be revered as sacred. 5. We will Honor & Respect our Creativity 6. We will not seek Perfection it does not exist. 7. We must know the Rules before we can Break them. 8. We Pay Homage. We Do Not Steal. 9. We Will Seek to be Original. Everything has not been done before. 10. We will be artists. Not critics ❤

[@karinhedenvind8595]

All your videos are always interesting and fun but I think this is your best so far - I had to listen to it twice! Very interesting thoughts and I especially appreciate that you brought back the idea of artists are (or should) creating because they need to, not for money or fame.Thank you for making this (and all) your video.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, Karin! I can't express how much your feedback means. It's hard to know whether this kind of topic will be received well or frowned upon, so your comment just made my day. Cheers and hope you're well! :)

[@SharonNolfi]

Lots of wisdom in these commandments. Something I often tell myself: "Done is better than perfect." I love seeing how your drawing evolves on the paper. Thanks!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, Sharon! Seriously, I see so many of these young people in my class who will start a drawing and just give up and toss it away, saying, "I messed up." I look at it and think, "no you didn't!" lol! I suppose once they start having to buy their own paper they'll think twice about tearing it up! lol!!! Stay well! :)

[@SharonNolfi]

On a related LOL note, my daughter, age 30, is expecting her first child (our first grandchild). Last week she asked me, incredulous, "Do you have any idea how much all this baby stuff cost? It's going to cost a fortune!"

[@MDCampbell]

That's really funny!!! Congratulations to your whole family on the arrival of your new grandchild! Many blessings for good health for both baby and mama! :)

[@MrsBarnabas]

@@MDCampbell " I suppose once they start having to buy their own paper they'll think twice about tearing it up! lol!!!" Oh, so very true!!! :D The whole of your comment strikes deep resonance with me. Something I love doing with the students is to show them how to turn their 'mistakes' into a part of the work. Commandment no 1 million and one: Never tell someone what you are painting until it's finished! What began as a big, accidental blob with a little imagination may turn into a really great part of the painting, and who's to know we didn't intend just that? It was meant to be there wasn't it, or it wouldn't be there at all! When the current course reaches the right point, I'll give them the link to this - because sometimes students need to hear it from 'someone else' before they will truly accept the ideas we present (especially when they think I'm 'just being kind'), and you tell it in such a way, it'll grab anyone's interest, especially with that painting to watch being developed at the same time. Thank you!!!

[@MDCampbell]

@@MrsBarnabas that's an excellent point! lol!

[@AnnieAlisa]

Thank you very much! I follow you since 4 days. I'm from Italy and I love the way you think about art and the world itself... I won't give up this time! Thanks!

[@ligaskirbauska8652]

Love it! TY so much,I’m self taught artist,so making long road by my self,without much of good advice.I will listen to this video from time to time,to keep those ideas,commandments alive in me...Sometimes (to don’t say many times)I just don’t like part of my painting and I keep painting,painting,then suddenly when I like that part I don’t like rest of painting,colour suddenly I want more brighter or whatever and I just keep painting and overpainting,overlaying Many,many paintings in one.Its very hard for me to let the painting go,say it’s good,yes it’s not perfect but it’s beautiful and worst to have own life,I’m like crazy mother attempting to make kid better,destroy it wihile sometimes make it better and sometimes it just get to point when I’m sick of that painting,I remember some fases what was grate and I overpainted,So I just suddenly start whole new painting on top of old one..I don’t even know how many paintings I’ve done,they had even stand on living rooms wall for couple years,and I just suddenly decide it’s boring and I just want to overpaint it..Yee.Im that crazy artist,frustrated with my skills and knowledge sometimes,but enjoying process a lot,learning a lot and just having blast....But I feel that I really have to start to let them go when they are good,don’t need to rise the painting for years,just let them go and have own life...without the need of God Like perfection...just let them be art,sometimes fun,sometimes,silly,sometimes beautiful,sometimes dark or whatever it becomes,just stop judging through prism of own eye as only perspective point...painting is just tiny part of all this artist beeing,sometimes it’s even very tiny part,worst or hardest part happens in head of artist.Its like if we are scared to be judged by others based on our work and in same time we have this inner need,feeling that we need our art to be liked,We in some way relate to our art like part of our self,judging my art,is like judging most vulnerable part of my self..Sorry for going to long,I just wanted to say TY for grate videos and Chanel,I find lot of good,interesting,Wise,friendly energy over her.Energy that I was missing and needing,messages what guide and inspire,TY

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Liga Skirbauska, for taking your time to watch this video and leave such thoughtful feedback. It is definitely a long road for all artists to find that place where they are comfortable with the work they love to do, and I hope you are enjoying the creative person you are, for all that you are, because like me and all other artists, you have a unique voice that is all your own. Best wishes!

[@amysamin]

Another winner, Mark! So much to think about, and somehow you managed once again to talk about things that I really needed to hear. Thanks for another great video and discussion. I envy the students you’re working with. Hope your friend gets his medical issues sorted out and is able to come back to work. And your frogs are awesome!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, Amy, for your continued support and your continued inspiration on Instagram. I sincerely adore your work and look forward to checking in whenever I can! Makes my day! I'm glad you enjoyed this one, as I wasn't sure how it would go over. From the responses, it seems to be good. I hope all is well on your end and again, thank you so very much! :)

[@kathrynsloan4694]

CONGRATUALATIONS. Mark. I wish I could sit in your class. Those students are blessed.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Kathryn! I really appreciate your kind thoughts and consider the videos I put out to be like my class! lol! Even though I've only been working with these kids for a month, I've gained their trust and their respect. It's an unbelievably exciting and rewarding experience that I can barely put into words. It's also quite exhausting, as teaching is much like being a performer where you're "on" from 6:45am until 3:30pm, most days. Still, I'm loving it! :)

[@kathrynsloan4694]

Mark, it is a win, win if you enjoy what your doing and the Kids enjoy the process. I am glad that you have had the opportunity to affect these young minds. You are an awesome role model and kids these days so dearly need that. Enjoy the moment, Mark and take the Blessing. It is yours. As Always, Kathryn

[@elsagrace3893]

This is one of the most interesting videos I have seen and I am on here daily. Very unique, to me. I’d love to hear more about your teaching experiences including the happy, sad, frustrating and fulfilling.

[@aidanmccormack5443]

When I’m writing music, I often just write three different options for the next four measure phrase in a piece. I just sit there trying to think which is best and which will let me expand a motif more greatly through the piece. Now I have to remember “Done is good!” Awesome video. :)

[@anacatarina117]

That painting is so good I love the concept and the characters. I like the message as well.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, SomethingHasToChange! I appreciate your feedback and time to watch! Cheers! :)

[@dianebishopdesigns]

I really enjoyed all these points. I have often felt that wanting to be a perfectionist with my art has held me back from just creating so now I try to go more with the 'done is good' approach.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Diane! I agree. For me, when I came upon that realization it was very liberating. And now, sharing that insight with a younger generation, I'm hoping they get it. They're very smart, but young artists tend to be very harsh critics about their own work. I hope you are well and I appreciate your thoughts! :)

[@BrandonNielsen87]

I have this problem. I have been called a perfectionist before.

[@edzejandehaan9265]

Those are some very good points. Food for thought. I am not a professional artist, it's a personal thing for me. This resonated with me. Oh and I really love your enthusiastic coffee breaks!

[@kathrynsloan4694]

Mark, I loved this video. Art has been such a blessing in my life, it has helped me to take time to create and find beauty in simple things. It has also led me to writing and expressing my self in Writing. It has helped me to slow down and create and discover beauty in my life. I never thought Art would be the thing I would find to spend my free time but I am so glad I did. I have met the most wonderful people and I have learned more about myself. Thank you so much for expressing so well what I was feeling.

[@MDCampbell]

I completely relate to your perspective, Kathryn Sloan, even with regard to writing, as well. I'm happy you enjoyed this one and thankful for your kind words! :)

[@aellaterra9843]

So true ;) brightest of blessings

[@froezz]

Be blessed. :-) thank you so very much.

[@heidicook2395]

Hi Mark, thank you for this video I like the book you showed us. But even more than that I liked how you told us what's been going on in your life. I remember when I went from working part-time to full-time. It took me months before I could do more than just work and crash. I just had a cat at home to take care of, not a family. I'm looking forward to when you get used to your schedule and have time to start replying to comments on your older videos. I'm a new viewer and I'm learning a lot from your videos I look forward to being able to dialogue with you soon. Thanks

[@higherground711]

All really good things to take to heart and keep in mind. ^_^ I'm moved by this. Thanks.

[@kathrynsloan4694]

I am out of work right now d/t a back injury and watching old you tube video to inspire me today but the School Shooting in Florida is hampering my creative time today. I had to turn off the news. This video seem appropriate today.

[@adfundumdus6826]

I truly wish all of us could find the time, the place and the mental state to be as reactive as one can be. The world evolves around people who think out of the box.

[@palmamingozzi5736]

We don’t have a serious Gallery on Staten Island, no less a serious collector, critic, newspaper and magazine for the arts. Hopefully NY can take notice, we have many artists here that are under appreciated.

[@dovel1000]

Great video. Gave me lots to think about. Thanks!

[@marcusart5076]

I do agree that these make sense, great video.

[@ekawidodo4309]

thank you sir ... love your vlog so much 😊

[@FerylMusic]

Thank you for this. ☮️

[@FerylMusic]

I could almost cry, listening to this. I’m going through some real turmoil creatively, and respectfully amongst peers so there’s some real food for thought here. I’m at the coffee break :)

[@AnastasiaR]

Wow I loved this video so much! You are very wise, Mark. I agree with all of these. I will rewatch this during times that I feel lost. ♥️

[@MDCampbell]

Aw, thank you so much for your generous feedback, Anastasia! It sincerely means a lot to me! As for being wise, well, I honestly just tell it the way I see it. If folks agree or find it useful, then that's the world to me. If not, well, I tried and I think that trying and putting ourselves out there is far better than not trying and sitting in silence. I think. lol! :)

[@lisaswank-artfulinspiratio1865]

Awesome Video Mark! You hit upon several great points. It was really nice to see you develop your frogs on the crowded lilypad In one color... nice work👍

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, Lisa! I really appreciate your feedback! As for the frogs, I admit, I have a bizarre love for monochromatic artwork... and frogs. Cheers! :)

[@carolshain2163]

Beautiful!

[@zlee11]

This was brilliant. Lots to think about. The drawing was enjoyable too. Thanks you.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much for watching, Zlee11, and especially for your kind words! Cheers! :)

[@mapeandrews3951]

I usually find your conversations very thought provoking and inspiring but this one has so much meat in it I concur with Steve it could derive into infinity. With your permission and proper credit I would love to use your 10 commandments with my college students. I think the number 9 is a great way to look at something from a new perspective, I too have been bothered by the same comment for years but just did not have as great an answer to it as you do. Out of curiosity, now that you have opened the door to this subject, how about the question about What is art? I think artists are in the only profession that doesn't have a clear, simple agreed upon description. Love your mind, videos and your characters.

[@mariototsi5987]

Love ur coffee breaks!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Mario Totsi! I admit... I do too! lol! :)

[@N_A__]

Just stumbled on your channel. I love your style. You got a new sub. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@sylviariess4024]

I so much agree with you. Feel every point you made, while writing. It always was my talent, and I love it, but I noticed I can not live off it. So I went to vetschool. I love it too. I can help my patients and I got more creative, than I ever expected, just because I do not need to worry about the money. An by the way ... I adore those frogs yo are drawing. :D

[@artat777]

Wow great video I was hypnotized buy your drawing the music and the voiceover content.

[@rgrdesigns]

Wish you had been my teacher 45 years ago.

[@barbarawalworth7511]

🙏🏻💕Thank you

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you for checking this one out, Barbara Walworth!

[@DrawingWithFire]

Great video Mark! 😁 I love how the frogs came out... a ribbidting bunch. 😉 CONGRATS on going back to high school. I hope you enjoy your time with the kids. I hope you are doing well & staying warm. 🤗

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, as always, Valerie! The frogs kept croaking, "Bud. Wise. Er." lol! Enjoying the school spirit again, but to be honest, it's a great insight to make me realize just how glad I am to have actually made it through high school! omg!! Cheers to you and Jason and hope all is well! Warm is the word, right now! lol!

[@cincyjoju336]

Thank u so much MDC it was so helpful

[@MDCampbell]

And thank you for taking the time to check this one out, Cincy Joju!! Cheers! :)

[@KarijnsWatercolors]

Loved this video, and good luck with your new (but old) teaching job. I do not know how it works where you live, but sending this video out to your class before meeting them might be a good 'presentation'. It shows your love for art and your dedication to the job that your friend entrusted you with. If I were a student, I know it would take a lot of anxiety off me to already know something about my professor, especially if he's going to be awesome. :D

[@MDCampbell]

I appreciate your feedback, Karijn - thank you! Before being offered the job, my friend had me come in to present a lecture to the classes about being a professional designer & illustrator. What I think he was doing was seeing how I would be with his students and how they'd interact with me. He told them about my channel, and a lot of the kids had a good introduction to me, before I really even met them, without me even really knowing it! lol! Going into the classroom has been great, and every day seems to get better and better. I can't tell you how grateful and sincerely humbling the experience has been so far! Cheers! :)

[@PamelaRubel]

For some reason your videos are hitting me like bricks 🤣 but more seriously, this is an important discussion when it comes to art. When you talked about honoring your creative time, I really understand what you mean. When I just do things in between, rushed, without really giving my best, it doesn't even feel the same, I don't get "results" or in better words, I do not see true progress. On the opposite end of the scale it is so much better and effective when, even I have very little time, I really put my mind to be creative, and go into it with more purpose. And yes, "I strive for perfection" is an excuse I use far too often to justify my lacl of effort. Bravo, great video! Loved the frogs(even though in real life I cannot see one near me without jumping in panic hahaha)

[@GenWivern2]

Very interesting and wide ranging, thank you Mark. Far too much to discuss here: these subjects require several cups of coffee each. The matter of money and art is particularly thorny ... Grayson Perry is good on that and provides a lot of food for thought.

[@JacquiWil]

Good luck with the teaching gig :-) Some sage advice in this 'coffee break chat' ... those frogs are adorable and super cute ... would make a great start for a children's book ;-)

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, Jacqui! I appreciate the well wishes on teaching and especially your kind thoughts on the video/art. As for a children's book... hmmm! :)

[@jeanreiter3175]

Great advice!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much, Jean Reiter! :)

[@jeanreiter3175]

And the frogs are great too, such a fun piece.

[@robertahutchison6651]

it's mesmerizing to watch your pen move up and over and around. i wanna know how to do that. btw...dem frogs are da bomb! esp. like the guy with the long tongue...hahahaha. tks for sharing your knowledge.

[@ColoredMud]

I'd definitely say that my passion for art is to the extreme extreme, so yeah the money does not interest me so much, but it would be nice to get paid for what I love. X3

[@MDCampbell]

I agree, MyArtJourney! I was fortunate in that I found a way to make a living from my art, but it took many years and the persistence of a charging rhino to get where I got to. Now, however, even my career has severe ups and downs and bidding out contracts, seeking out new clients, and taking jobs I know are sometimes back to basics for me (ie. production design, junior design, etc) simply keep the bills paid. But, that's "work." My art is not work, it's my love. And oddly enough, I rarely sell my personal work, even upon request. I should probably change that. lol! Thank you so much and I hope you're well! :)

[@MeowMeowKapow]

I think these commandments are really interesting, and I think the discontinuation of the quest for perfection was the hardest one for me to learn the hard way. I used to do a lot of things that were extremely tight, full of stippling, and obsessively clean. Then I gave up and learned to love the bomb and have been much happier in my art. Luckily, that's something I grew out of in high school/college. =^.^= Also, you're totally right... It is an "unyielding desire to create" that keeps me going. Gosh though, wouldn't it be nice if it could at least somewhat reasonably be feasible to make a real living? I feel like so many of us end up abandoning our art because we require money to thrive and jobs that make money often leave us exhausted. I'm so glad you're enjoying your new students! Sometimes I miss being a teacher, and sometimes I don't but... I think people like you and I, who've put our voices out here in the great wide world of the inter webs, are pretty much always teaching and refining their ability to communicate knowledge to others. Do you feel like you've grown as a teacher since the last time you were in the classroom? I'm so pleased to hear that they were engaged and interested in your lessons. =^.^=

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you again! A few thoughts. In my youth, I was meticulous, drawing with my eye an inch off the paper to catch every detail. Back when I hit 40, I needed glasses and now I draw about two feet from the paper, trying to keep my eye on the lines and I feel more like James Thurber before he went blind! I tell my kids not to gauge their future based on mine - I got really lucky and between right place/right time and a severe persistence in going after every job, gig, and opportunity that came my way, I've had a very successful career as an artist, but specifically in graphic arts and commercial illustration. My personal work is not something I pursued for a career, so it was always the thing I came home and allowed me to exorcise all the corporate yuckiness. Both that and music are what kept me sane throughout the bulk of my career. But, yes, it should NOT be so difficult to make a living as a working artist. I'm hoping that changes for the generation coming up. Lastly, I know what you mean about missing teaching/not missing it. Being in the classroom, I remember vividly the things I loathed about the profession 25 years ago, primarily the kids who simply don't give a $%&# about anything. They are such negative weights that just get in the way of everybody. The difference is, I have definitely grown - exponentially - since 25 years ago. I see those negative do-nothing kids and while I acknowledge them and give them respect if they pay it to me, I simply treat them like rocks in the water and go right around them, whereas before I got hung up on them. It allows me to focus so much more intently on the students who really need and want guidance and support. And I love that, even more than I did back then! It's so much more rewarding, now. Stay well, my friend. I'm so glad you're out there and I get to share thoughts with you. Cheers! :)

[@heatherh3457]

In the quest for perfection excellence is lost.

[@nixotinix]

I remember that my 3rd grade teacher, when we went up to tell her we were done, she'd say, "Are you done or finished?" She said that, when cookies are taken out of the oven, they are done. When they are frosted and decorated, they are finished. I put this perspective into art. When a piece of art is coloured or shaded if black and white, it is done. When you are happy with it, it is finished.

[@paulrivera3252]

It inspires us older peeps too

[@MDCampbell]

Very happy to hear that, Paul! :)

[@daganmoriarty1973]

Well done! Enjoying the channel! : )

[@Vic101able]

This is a nice drawing, but there were so many times a long the work l personally would called it good, but it's your work and you knew where you were going with it!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much Vic101able! A bad habit of mine is to sometimes overwork a piece. I try to remember, "simple is better!" but often get caught up in the details. ;)

[@Dan.B.Artist]

Some great thoughts!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you so much! :)

[@Rokvtm]

Very good advice. Thanxs If I am not sure to like or dislike, I would go to ‘like’. I value the artist trying and doing

[@pawannathART]

Wow great video.. always loved your videos..

[@_Caspergers_]

My problem with number 8 is that I always feel like any inspiration is just stealing. I mean, I know sometimes I like to mimic things I enjoy (like my avatar) but I don't claim those really as my own. I've always had this mindset that anything I make needs to have no outside influence, which funnily enough seemed to be a theme around the 20's (im not too fond of 20th century art, but studied it enough). In my mind, stealing is stealing and unoriginal, even if it's paying homage, since it came from an outside source. I don't like that I think like that, but I'm still not really sure how to get over that way of thinking

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you, Casper, for watching and for taking the time to leave your thoughts. I understand your position, but let me see if I can give an example. The most classic painting that has been reinterpreted by more artists than any other is _The Madonna with Child_. It's been painted by Raphael, Giorgione, Botticelli, Duccio, Jan van Eyck, Algardi, Desidaro da Settignano, Fillipo Lippi, Tiepolo, Caravaggio, Francesca, Giotto, Da Vinci, Boltraffio, Michaelangelo, del Sarto, de Messina, Verrocchio, Penni, Parmigianino, Titian, Masaccio, Memling, Cimabue, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, and yes, even Lennon & McCartney. It's the most prominent example of the most unoriginal subject painted time and time and time again, because primarily, each artist is not only paying homage to the figures and the background of their story, but they are paying homage to all the other artists that came before them. While they may be "stealing" the idea, in some people's minds, they are merely leveraging the concept and subject and interpreting it in their own, unique style. I mean, if you look at the difference between Boltraffio's version and Penni's, there's a vast and huge difference from Lippi's and van Eyck's. So, perhaps, if we allow our mind to expand just a little bit, we can see that pure stealing is one thing, but paying homage is a respectable tribute, all on its own, to present our ideas in tandem with the original artist who inspired it. That's just my take. I hope that made some sense. :)

[@MrMark28]

I dont think that its for the universe but for the public, this comes from Hindemith. Hindemith was a composer, musician. (Yes, I am taking it a bit slightly of course on how you meant it, but for some reason I see it making sence.... but yes yes, defenetly not ours since anyone alter anything of it. However as artists we should know how to mold it to know what we want to show to others to trigger certain emotions..... I think rules defenetly help and guide one quite a lot, but not nessesary.... Haha i relate to the abstract story, amybe because i really dont know how to draw, i only doodle..... honestly quite jealous of those that can. That said, known rules cant help or make you better..... Hm, maybe not call them rules but blue prints, reminds me of total serialist music..... Whn I started drawing ( i like calling it doodle, tho recently I have been trying to get better at drawing flames and plants; abstract, remember?) I never knew the rules, and honestly i still think i dont... I just drew what looked nice or that had some sort of figure consistancy..... Also, good vids like always. And nice drawing, seriously quite jealous of your drawing... Good luck with the teaching thing.... i like how you know and expect it to be differ than teaching uni/ college..... Also dont be surprised if students get attacked more to you, i notice that with the arts sometimes its an outlet (for many of us) but for the younger ones sometimes even more.... How old are you again? Seriously, I usually dont coment, but listen specially to the adults cause they are easy to offend at times ( lingo? age gap?) you try to coment or say something and they think you are down talking or watering down the talk or something..... but its impresive to hear an older gent be open, but then again this is only talk anyway.... Just glad that you know it will be differ. I really do hope things go well for you. Also remeber to not take any crap from students, dont be scared to call them out to the office or something. Its grerat that you are inthusiastic about this teaching but also remeber everyone has differ intentions in the class setting..... Gah, I wish you would draw fire or a flame haha, thatd be something. I tried to go over the spelling in here but whine and sleep make it bad to try to spell things correctly lol..... hm, maybe I should get back to watching them vids you make, its been a while. And yes I might sound like a 4 year old typing but yep im in uni. I really dont coment but something just made me. Have a good night and let us know how things go. GBY mate :)

[@MDCampbell]

Hi MrMak2121! Thank you for your wonderful and thoughtful reply! I'm grateful for your time. I also appreciate your advice on dealing with students! lol! In the first few days, I realized they were beginning to walk over me. I caught on quick and nipped it in the bud. I have a saying, "Expect Respect," which I told them, and which means, "I expect nothing but respect from you, and in turn, you should expect nothing but respect from me." They like that attitude and things have been going great since. And yes, they do seem to be taking to me, not just with art, but personally, which is amazing. I'm really glad you took the time to comment. I assume that if you're in university, you must be quite busy! Thank you so much and hope you are doing well! Cheers!!!

[@madnesslives]

Great video!

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you!

[@upinthesky.]

Hello. I have been watching your videos since last year. I want you if you can do a video for best watercolor that is non toxic or at least less toxic. I searched here and there and still can't decide what to buy? I read that M. Graham watercolor is good for being less toxic and only need to wash the mouth with water if someone or kids eat it (this is what I searched). Do you know a brand that is non toxic or is it impossible to find some best artist grade watercolor? Thank you

[@MDCampbell]

Hello In The Sky! Thank you so much for checking the channel out and your comments. Unfortunately, the only paints I use are higher pigmented artist grade paints that, to my understanding, are all _not_ non-toxic. I've come across some basic beginner watercolors that are not artist quality, but have good results and _are_ non-toxic, though I have not used them in my experiences. One that comes to mind is _Daveliou Watercolor_ which are non-toxic, supposed to be professional grade, and the company offers money back if not satisfied (from what I've seen). I think you can get them on Amazon (link below). Thank you again and best wishes! tinyurl.com/y7dfma4w

[@upinthesky.]

M.D. Campbell thank you so much for your comment. I will look at what you mentioned and see how it is work :)

[@FetteHenne2009]

I loved your video. Just yesterday I read "steel like an artist" which follows the same direction your advice has taken. But this "borrowed from the universe"...idk, I can't wrap my head around it. Maybe I didn't get your point language wise :/ And your artwork: I love your style so so much, I wish I could also have such unique ideas and translate it trough my own unique style. But whatever I try, it does not hit the nail right on the head... it is like not having the right word in your native language for expressing an elementary emotion....does that even make sense...? idk anyway - good video and thanks for letting me ramble on xD i'm looking forward to your next one

[@MDCampbell]

Hi Terry! Thank you for your feedback and checking this one out. I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Just today, I was doodling in class while the kids were working. A student looked at what I was drawing and said, "how did you find your style?" It was such a big question, that I had her sit down and asked her to draw something. From there, we talked about style, passion for art, the years it takes, and so on. It was clear she had been lifted to a new level after we talked, as she left with such a brilliant sparkle in her eyes and a rare enthusiasm that made me smile, ear to ear. Art, for me, is almost always a spiritual experience. And when it's not, I can totally feel it - I feel like I'm forcing it. By "borrowed from the universe," I simply refer to the idea that creativity comes into many of our lives from a place of great spiritual import. That we are able to access and possess it for a brief time while we're alive, and then, when we pass on, it returns back to the universe from where it came, to be passed on to someone else. And yes, you made perfect sense. But trust me, more times than not I am constantly searching for the right word, both in my art and when I'm speaking, and often, I just can't get it. Thank you again and sorry, now I'm the one who's rambling! lol! :)

[@hannah8722]

_I found you!! This is Hannah btw_ _This is awesome, definitely subbing!_

[@jonashansen7273]

I have another perspective on the phrase "everything has been done before", and that is because I've ran into to people who had seen something, movie, serie, painting and whatnot, use a well known premise, but the way the old premise is used is done in a new way. But just because the premise is well known, they would dismisse the whole thing as unoriginal. With such a strict view on what indicate originality, then everything really has been done before! So I use that phrase when people have , in my opinion, an unreasonable bar for what makes something original.

[@lorettahead5097]

how can I break the bondage of thought that every painting or sketch I make has to look real...i would like to be free to express w/o obsessing over natural/perfect art

[@lenoralb]

I was sooooo waiting for you to use pink for the tongue. It would have made the piece less mono-chromatic.... unless that’s what you were going for.

[@KateTheSleepyTeacher]

Awesome video. I like the idea of creativity being borrowed. Does the guy worth 925 M want to adopt a daughter ?

[@MDCampbell]

Get outta here!! That dude needs a SON!!! lol!! Thanks for checking this out, Kate! Hope you are doing great! :)

[@KateTheSleepyTeacher]

M.D. Campbell maybe he wants “twins”. Bahahha

[@Ed-lz4jv]

skip to 2:48 to have any idea what he is talking about

[@NoOne-hg1qc]

i think the 'saying everything's been done before means you have no imagination' is a little harsh. there is a lot of creativity of novelty to be found in what's around us, but it all builds off other things as well, doesn't it? and in a world so populated, and with so much technology and understanding, I think it can certainly be more difficult to 'discover' new ideas. what if someone is truly being creative, thoughtful, and imaginative, but finds that other people have separately come up with similar ideas already? is it not fair to say that can be discouraging? what if they just don't know HOW to engage their imagination -- is it not fair to say they may contain it, but don't know how to use it yet? p.s. I love your videos :D

[@anamariefalk3796]

I don't agree with all of these completely, but they're still all great points

[@paulwhite760]

Perfection does exist...it is the process by which you make the ' mistakes ' and change to a better understanding of possibilities. You are as you are, when you are ; tomorrow you will be more. Keep on keeping on and and you grow into gold, from once being lead. Perfection is the alchemy of knowing through the burning crucible of experience concordant to your will. As for art and money...if it was good enough for leonardo or michelangelo to bid for contracts...well then ,it is good enough for me to get off my arse to be professional and sell my stuff and talk to clients. You will still have to unceasingly, hone your skills. Quality always sells. Make sure others can see it.

[@LindaUrsin]

I keep telling people "perfect doesn't exist"

[@MDCampbell]

I find that I say it probably more than I should! lol! Thank you, Linda! :)

[@LindaUrsin]

Same here :D

[@navyboymommygramma]

....,but more importantly....frogs. Need I say more? I didn't think so 😁

[@MDCampbell]

lol! Thank you, Elizabeth Gronlund! Gotta say, I have a penchant for frogs! :)

[@typograf62]

There are drawings and paintings to be made. And a floor to be cleaned. And by the way a job to do (that is a job that has nothing to do with art). So working on those pictures not yet done becomes stolen time, bad conscience. And that really kills art. Accept a house not quite free from dust and work not done this week. As for perfection, I'm not a perfectionist. But sometimes I have a higher mark for "just good enough." One thing I really miss was my father criticizing my works. Why did you choose to do this? You can do better than that and so on. I was taken seriously. Now I just experience empty praise. Critique is not nescessarily a killer.

[@AirEnderman13]

Lol, the painting in that gallery looked like some toddlers drew on a wall

[@decayingfairy3996]

I understand and can respect your perspective on criticism but, I would much rather be criticized and be able to improve, than have somebody 100% understand my art.

[@MedaHalmaciu]

Congratulationa on your teaching opportunity. Loved hearing your ideas especially since they are so different from what we hear nowadays. But why do you say the talent comes from the univese if you actually believe in God. You expressed all your other ideas clearly without fear you would offend anyone.

[@MDCampbell]

Thank you Meda Halmaciu! I'm glad you mentioned the universe/God aspect. My position isn't that I worry about offending anyone, but rather respecting the spiritual perspectives of others. I have my beliefs, but recognize the beliefs of others, as well. There are many teachings in the world, from Christianity and Buddhism, to Hindu and Muslim. All are contained in the spiritual realm of the universe, which is where I believe creativity has its origins. For me, I believe my creative spirit is on load from God. But, my Indian friend may believe hers comes from Saraswati, goddess of art & knowledge. And, of course, many people do not believe in a spiritual power at all, and that's where I call upon the power of the creative force in Nature, and the persistent need for regeneration and rebirth in our world. Sorry if I get too far into this, but it comes down to simply recognizing, for me, that the creative spirit within me is merely channeled from the universe around me, be it God, Nature, or just the air I breath. I can't say for absolute certain! I hope that all made some kind of sense! lol! Cheers! :)

[@Welhelm]

How old are you 25 years

[@MDCampbell]

Yes, I began my teaching career when I was just one year old. Amazing, right?

[@DistractedDaisy]

you are so write on no. 1

[@faxx8832]

Who do the frogs look like pickles

[@MDCampbell]

Who do pickles look like the frogs

[@HalfMaskMan]

When i saw the title I thought it was about restriction maybe cause my Christian background at interpreting commandments. Hahaha 😅 oh well. Good liberating commandments though.

[@MDCampbell]

I have to say, it's my Christian background that inspired these commandments! thank you and cheers! :)

[@AbhyTries]

In India A person got very popular saying abuses on you tube and many trending pages from India suck so your 2 point is not so correct in our country. It is hard to live here,you people are born in to privilege of basic amenities. Here people kill each other for just speaking out against a religion.I am not procrastinating but many things just don't go true here.How will one buy supplies when most of it is not available in our country ? and shipping charges are mostly un affordable in a country which has so much poverty.

[@cvisuali]

Good start but seems like you are giving up on the notion of art empire but allow for the notion of technology or business empires. #cvisuali

[@123rockfan]

Completely disagree, trying to reinvent the wheel can end badly for some artists.