5 answers
ja'reese
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
2
Questions
Asked
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what are the most needed tools on my way to becoming an artist?
I'd really like to know
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5 answers
Adrienne Whiting
Student/Recent Graduate
1
Answer
Corona, California
Updated
Adrienne’s Answer
I think it depends on the type of artist you plan to be. For example, are you pursuing fine art, or are you leaning more towards animated type of art like what you'd see on TV or movies?
I am more of an animation and character design artist, but I have tried fine art in both school and experimented with it at home. Overall, I think you need to try out different mediums. And don't worry about the price: you don't have to start off with the most expensive paints or pencils or technology to be a great artist. I've seen many artist create amazing drawings with just a ball-point pen or mechanical pencil. So buy what you think you can afford.
The one thing I really do recommend you always keep is a sketchbook. Big or small, even pocket sized, always have a sketchbook with you and draw whatever you like, whenever you like. Make sure to do studies from life, such as drawing people, scenery, plants, whatever you see with your eyes.
One of the best advice I was given regarding my sketchbook was don't treat it like a sacred book. Don't feel like every drawing in it has to be a perfect, finished drawing. Just scribble. It can be messy. In fact, many instructors and employers like seeing your thought process in your sketches. So don't be afraid to just go crazy with your pencil or pen!
Pick a medium
Get a sketchbook
Draw from life
Don't be afraid!
I am more of an animation and character design artist, but I have tried fine art in both school and experimented with it at home. Overall, I think you need to try out different mediums. And don't worry about the price: you don't have to start off with the most expensive paints or pencils or technology to be a great artist. I've seen many artist create amazing drawings with just a ball-point pen or mechanical pencil. So buy what you think you can afford.
The one thing I really do recommend you always keep is a sketchbook. Big or small, even pocket sized, always have a sketchbook with you and draw whatever you like, whenever you like. Make sure to do studies from life, such as drawing people, scenery, plants, whatever you see with your eyes.
One of the best advice I was given regarding my sketchbook was don't treat it like a sacred book. Don't feel like every drawing in it has to be a perfect, finished drawing. Just scribble. It can be messy. In fact, many instructors and employers like seeing your thought process in your sketches. So don't be afraid to just go crazy with your pencil or pen!
Adrienne recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
ja'reese
Tashnim Husain
3D Modeler & Graphic Designer
29
Answers
Dhaka, Dhaka Division, Bangladesh
Updated
Tashnim’s Answer
The most important tools on your way to becoming an artist aren't physical ones, but rather internal ones: curiosity, creativity, and a desire to learn and experiment. However, there are some essential physical tools that will help you express yourself and develop your skills. Here are a few:
Sketchbook:This is your most essential tool! A sketchbook is a portable canvas for your ideas and a space to experiment without judgment. Fill it with drawings, observations from life, and anything that inspires you. There are many different sizes and types of sketchbooks available, so find one that suits your style and needs.
Drawing Pencils: A good set of drawing pencils will allow you to create a variety of lines, tones, and textures. Start with a basic set of H, B, and HB pencils, and experiment with different brands and hardness levels to find what you like best.
Erasers: Don't underestimate the importance of a good eraser! A kneaded eraser is great for picking up pencil marks without damaging the paper, while a vinyl eraser is good for general cleanup.
Sharpener: Keep your pencils sharp for clean lines and precise details.
Drawing Paper: There are many different types of drawing paper available, from smooth to textured. Experiment with different weights and textures to find what you prefer. For beginners, a good quality printer paper is a perfectly acceptable option.
Drawing Board (optional): A drawing board can help to keep your paper flat and prevent smudging. However, it's not essential, especially when you're starting out.
These are just a few of the basic tools you'll need to get started on your artistic journey. As you develop your skills and explore different mediums, you may find yourself adding other tools to your collection. But the most important thing is to simply start creating!
Sketchbook:This is your most essential tool! A sketchbook is a portable canvas for your ideas and a space to experiment without judgment. Fill it with drawings, observations from life, and anything that inspires you. There are many different sizes and types of sketchbooks available, so find one that suits your style and needs.
Drawing Pencils: A good set of drawing pencils will allow you to create a variety of lines, tones, and textures. Start with a basic set of H, B, and HB pencils, and experiment with different brands and hardness levels to find what you like best.
Erasers: Don't underestimate the importance of a good eraser! A kneaded eraser is great for picking up pencil marks without damaging the paper, while a vinyl eraser is good for general cleanup.
Sharpener: Keep your pencils sharp for clean lines and precise details.
Drawing Paper: There are many different types of drawing paper available, from smooth to textured. Experiment with different weights and textures to find what you prefer. For beginners, a good quality printer paper is a perfectly acceptable option.
Drawing Board (optional): A drawing board can help to keep your paper flat and prevent smudging. However, it's not essential, especially when you're starting out.
These are just a few of the basic tools you'll need to get started on your artistic journey. As you develop your skills and explore different mediums, you may find yourself adding other tools to your collection. But the most important thing is to simply start creating!
Jennifer Jackson
Film Director
73
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi ja'reese,
The tools needed on the path to becoming an artist, particularly as an art teacher or art therapist, encompass a range of materials, knowledge, and skills tailored to the specific goals of each profession:
For an Art Teacher:
1. Teaching Credentials: Obtain the necessary teaching credentials, which may include a Bachelor's degree in art education or a related field, as well as a teaching license or certification.
2. Art Supplies: Build a collection of art supplies suitable for a classroom environment, encompassing various mediums such as paints, drawing materials, clay, and more.
3. Curriculum Development: Acquire skills in developing art curricula and lesson plans that align with educational standards and cater to diverse learning styles.
4. Classroom Management: Develop effective classroom management and instructional techniques to engage and inspire students, fostering their creativity and artistic growth.
For an Art Therapist:
1. Clinical Training: Pursue clinical training in art therapy, typically involving a Master's degree in art therapy or a related mental health field, along with supervised clinical experience.
2. Therapeutic Art Materials: Accumulate a diverse array of art materials suited for therapeutic use, considering the therapeutic benefits and safety of each medium.
3. Counseling Skills: Acquire foundational counseling skills and an understanding of psychological principles to effectively use art as a therapeutic tool.
4. Ethical Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with ethical guidelines and legal considerations relevant to providing art therapy in a clinical setting.
5. Interdisciplinary Approach: Embrace an interdisciplinary approach, collaborating with mental health professionals to integrate art therapy into comprehensive treatment plans.
Ultimately, the most essential tools on the path to becoming an artist, art teacher, or art therapist encompass a comprehensive blend of education, practical skills, artistic resources, and a deep understanding of the unique responsibilities and objectives of each profession.
Best of luck!
Jennifer
The tools needed on the path to becoming an artist, particularly as an art teacher or art therapist, encompass a range of materials, knowledge, and skills tailored to the specific goals of each profession:
For an Art Teacher:
1. Teaching Credentials: Obtain the necessary teaching credentials, which may include a Bachelor's degree in art education or a related field, as well as a teaching license or certification.
2. Art Supplies: Build a collection of art supplies suitable for a classroom environment, encompassing various mediums such as paints, drawing materials, clay, and more.
3. Curriculum Development: Acquire skills in developing art curricula and lesson plans that align with educational standards and cater to diverse learning styles.
4. Classroom Management: Develop effective classroom management and instructional techniques to engage and inspire students, fostering their creativity and artistic growth.
For an Art Therapist:
1. Clinical Training: Pursue clinical training in art therapy, typically involving a Master's degree in art therapy or a related mental health field, along with supervised clinical experience.
2. Therapeutic Art Materials: Accumulate a diverse array of art materials suited for therapeutic use, considering the therapeutic benefits and safety of each medium.
3. Counseling Skills: Acquire foundational counseling skills and an understanding of psychological principles to effectively use art as a therapeutic tool.
4. Ethical Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with ethical guidelines and legal considerations relevant to providing art therapy in a clinical setting.
5. Interdisciplinary Approach: Embrace an interdisciplinary approach, collaborating with mental health professionals to integrate art therapy into comprehensive treatment plans.
Ultimately, the most essential tools on the path to becoming an artist, art teacher, or art therapist encompass a comprehensive blend of education, practical skills, artistic resources, and a deep understanding of the unique responsibilities and objectives of each profession.
Best of luck!
Jennifer
Sarah Platt
Artist/Marketing
2
Answers
Hendersonville, North Carolina
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
An imagination and the willingness to learn and to make mistakes.
Tammy Symons
Artist
1
Answer
Logandale, CA
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
Train your eye to see by drawing. Explore different mediums, oil, acrylic, pastel etc. I’m really enjoying acrylic because if I don’t like it or it’s not quite right, I can paint it out, and start again. Saves on canvas boards and canvas.