I plan where the important parts of the sketch
are. While I put down these strokes, I am also
constantly thinking of where my light sources
are coming from. As the sketch becomes clearer
to me, I switch between pens with different nib
sizes, and put down lines or values that will help
establish the lighting and mood of the sketch.
In college, I recall a number of classes that
encouraged me to experiment with techniques
and the exposure from those classes definitely
influenced the way I sketch today. One of the
best pieces of advice I have been given is to not
be precious with sketches because we learn and
grow the most from our mistakes. Regardless
of how much time you have spent on a sketch,
if there is something obviously wrong with it,
you should not fear starting over. Being able to
accept your mistakes and having the courage to
move past them is part of becoming successful.Although attending an art institution can
help one learn and develop techniques, I do
not think it is a mandatory path to becoming
a successful artist. Having met a number
of successful self-taught artists, I think that
constant practice, the drive to keep pushing
your limits, and having the curiosity to challenge
yourself with new things are more important
characteristics that can lead one to success.59
2DARTIST MAGAZINE | ISSUE 136