What is an Art Style?
An art style is a consistent and recognizable way of creating art. It's the unique characteristics that make your work identifiable. Having a distinct style is important because it not only helps people recognize and connect with your work, but it also strengthens your identity as an artist.
Why Have an Art Style?
A recognizable art style can set you apart, making your work more memorable and helping you build a stronger connection with your audience. It provides a sense of cohesion across your portfolio and allows others to know what to expect from your art.
Exploring Art Mediums, Genres, and Techniques
Finding your art style often begins with exploration.
- Experiment with different mediums like watercolor, digital art, acrylic, oil, or ceramics. Each medium offers a unique way to express your creativity.
- Dive into various genres such as abstract, realism, or still life.
- Explore different subject matters like landscapes, people, or objects.
- Try out different techniques, whether they are clean and precise or loose and free, detailed or simple.
The goal isn't to achieve perfection right away but to discover what resonates with you.
Art classes, whether online or in person, can be incredibly helpful. For example, in Richmond, you might explore classes at the Visual Arts Center or the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Finding Inspiration
Look around in your world and pay attention to what you are naturally drawn to—what styles, color palettes, textures, or themes capture your interest?
Inspiration often comes from studying other artwork and artists. While copying art can be useful for practice at first, it’s essential to develop your unique perspective and add your personal touch.
Consider blending elements from various artists you admire. Austin Kleon’s book Steal Like an Artist discusses this concept of drawing inspiration from multiple sources to create something uniquely yours.
Creating a Lot of Art
The more you create, the more you’ll learn. Don’t be discouraged if your early work doesn’t meet your expectations. This is a normal part of the process. As Ira Glass famously said, “For the first couple years you make stuff, it’s just not that good... It’s trying to be good, it has potential, but it’s not.” Practice is key.
- Make an art to-do list of ideas, styles, or themes you want to explore.
- Participate in art challenges on social media or create your own, like the 100-day project.
- Share your work online, if you feel ready. This can be a valuable exercise in building confidence and receiving feedback.
- Remember, there’s always a place for your art. There is a lot of beautiful art our there, but don't let this discourage you. There's always room for your unique perspective.
Reflecting on Your Work
Take time to reflect on what you enjoy about different materials and processes.
- Do you find watercolor relaxing because of its fluidity, or do you prefer digital art for its precision?
- What color palettes do you find yourself returning to?
Reflect on the styles that feel most natural to you and consider what you might want to change or develop further.
Think about what you want your art to say.
- What message or feeling do you want to convey?
- If you’re a commercial artist, it’s important to consider what your audience might appreciate.
- If you’re creating purely for yourself, focus on what brings you joy.
Balancing Multiple Styles
It’s okay to work in different mediums or styles, but it can be beneficial to find a way to tie them together with common elements—whether it’s through color, themes, or techniques.
If having one style doesn’t work for you, embrace the versatility of working in multiple styles. Many artists forgo the idea of having one style and are artistic chameleons. Kyle T Webster is a great example of this.
Embracing Evolution in Your Art
Your style will likely evolve over time, and that’s perfectly fine. Don’t feel confined to one approach—let your art grow and change as you do. Enjoy the journey of creative discovery, and remember that finding your style is a process that unfolds over time.
Finding your art style is a journey of exploration, inspiration, and practice. Embrace the process, and allow yourself the freedom to grow and evolve as an artist.