How Do You Find Your Style?
One of the most common questions I get asked is "how do I find my style as an artist?"At the beginning of our art journey, we tend to mimic others, trying on different styles to see if any fit. The mistake we make at this stage is to look outwards when all the answers really lie within.The truth is that we all have a unique style (or voice) - just as we all have a unique face. But we often lose touch with ourselves and along the way we lose touch with that unique style.In my online courses, I help artists to reconnect with the parts of themselves that matter, the parts where their authentic, honest expression lies.I believe there are 3 keys to doing this:1) We need to recognise what feels good to do: how do you enjoy working? Do you like big bold brushstrokes? Or are you happiest when you are drawing in fine detail? Does it feel good to use a palette knife? Do bold colours feel good to you, or do you prefer to mix more subtle shades? Do you enjoy collage?The best way to find these things out is to experiment with your materials. Try everything you can think of and take note of what you most enjoy. Notice the times you feel 'in flow.' These are the times when you are working in the way that most suits you.2) What do you like to look at - in your work and other peoples’? When we are drawn to something in the work of other people, it's because we want something about that work in our own. So notice what type of art you are drawn to, and pinpoint exactly why. Once you find something you like, try bringing it into your work in your own way.3) What do you care about? What excites you or annoys you or drives you or just makes you feel happy? What change would you like to see in the world? If you could tell other people one thing, what would it be? What are your most deeply held values? What pastimes bring you joy? These are just a few of the questions you can ask yourself in order to get closer to your own authentic creative expression.The answers to each of these 3 questions combine to make up your unique style.
Why this is so important
Becoming a good artist is like becoming a good anything – it takes time and it takes practice. But if it’s hard, you won’t do the work necessary. Most of us make it harder for ourselves because we do things we don’t love and that don’t come naturally, and we do that because we think it’s the right way.When you follow the things that feel good and the things you like to look at, you will have fun. When you have fun, you will keep pursuing your work through the days when it doesn’t go so well and through the days when you’re tempted to just lie in bed – but you don’t want to because there’s this thing you are trying to solve and you want to go have another go at it.And along the way, you will start making work you love – that feels like you. That's when you know you are tapping into your unique artist's voice.If you are interested in learning more about how to find your unique style, sign up for my weekly artist newsletter, packed with useful tips, ideas and inspiration. You can get on the list here.PS: There is an Art Juice episode on this subject, so check it out HERE if you are interested in learning more.