ARTminute Ep. 06 "The Power of Observation"

Thanks to a fairly hectic production schedule the last couple of weeks this blog entry is coming to you a little late but, here it is nonetheless!

Today I want to talk to you about the power of observation. You know, the thing that made Sherlock Holmes such a good detective? Now, I know that he's fictional and that you're an artist not a detective but, just bear with me for a sec and I'll explain. 

From my perspective, an artist's power of observation is what sets them apart from non-artists and it's also what allows that artist to develop a unique artistic expression and style. Usually when we set out to learn how to draw we focus a lot of our energy in honing technical skills. The problem is without simultaneously developing your voice as artist you'll end up with artwork that is well executed technically but, it will lack feeling, and what is art that doesn't elicit an emotional response?

Okay, so when I talk about observation I'm really talking about all the things that you experience on a daily basis that stick with you. All those big and small things that impact you are what you should take note of so that they can inform your work. The world is full of people, places, things, smells, sounds, textures, and emotions that can inspire you to create but, it can all very easily pass you by if you let it. 

So, open yourself up to the world, let some of that stuff in and then let it out again in your work. ​

TODAYS’S LESSON: You have to be observant of the world around you and your reactions to that world in order to let those feelings and experiences inform your artwork.
HOMEWORK: Go out into the world, live your life, take note of the things that attract your attention.

Good luck my little blueberries, I'll be back in a few days with more insights.

Stay awesome!
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