Tip 4: From a Professional Artist to the Aspiring Teen Artist

Artist: Aimee Ayres - Co-founder of Dweba School/ Artist

Art Links: @up_intheayres

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A good attitude and an open mind. Fundamentals: If you are open to learning and/or the essentials

growing, putting ego aside and submitting to the process, you already have one of the most important elements to creating something great.

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On Research‍

As a kid I used to believe I didn't need to look at examples to make something great, but somehow thought it was different to copy other people's artworks - and subsequently made very mediocre 'art' 1 didn't understand the idea of using other images and concepts as a starting point to strengthen and build up my own.

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Now I can say with complete certainty that reference is everything. Ever since I accepted the process of drawing inspiration from others and relying on a collection of images as my research and reference points, I have made better art and gotten better at communicating my ideas more clearly.

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Lastly, research and more knowledge in general on anything are only beneficial as a human with an expanding brain and help add more substance to life and experiences.

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Motivation /Inspiration

The most important thing I've had to learn when it comes to inspiration is not to let it paralyze you. Don't look at what other people are doing and let it intimidate you by comparing it to you and your abilities."We all have a unique journey that can't be directly compared to another's.

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The best thing to do is have personal goals for your art and let other artists and their work motivate you to keep going, but also know that you need to have your own voice and tell your own story.

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Finding a Style 

Put in the hours to explore different styles + approaches, mimic others' styles and shift your focus more from style to content.

This will come with time, be patient and enjoy the process.

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Choosing A Medium 

Don't limit yourself to one. Try out as many as possible to see their potential and use, then focus on one or two that you enjoy the most and try to master them. See it as more of playing and experimenting rather than something set in stone - be fluid and flexible and don't let the medium define you and your art

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The right drawing habits 

Drawing every day or really as often as possible is another must. Take your sketchbook everywhere and commit to actually using it then and there. Tell your story through your sketchbook and art. Don't be afraid of the messy and ugly' parts - it's all a part of your journey and your story! 

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Also! Take breaks, go outside, practice good posture and have fun!

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Growth

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Don't force it. You are allowed to have off days where you feel demotivated or down.

Let it happen and be gentle with yourself. You can always return back to creating and drawing when your head is in a better space. Taking time off is okay!

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