Many new artists fret about “finding their own style.” This elusive concept seems to be the holy grail of the art world, a badge of honor that screams, “I’ve arrived!” But what does it really mean to have a style? It’s that magical moment when someone looks at a painting and immediately recognizes it as yours. It’s when you walk through a gallery and can pinpoint which pieces belong to a particular artist because of the similar techniques and approaches they use. But, spoiler alert: style isn’t something you find; it’s something that finds you.
As you grow and mature as an artist, your style will inevitably evolve. Just as life experiences shape you as a person, they also influence your art. Think about the famous “blue period” or “cubist phase” of iconic artists. These phases are essentially the artistic milestones that mark their journey.
Finding the right medium and technique is crucial, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all process. Whether it’s pastels, watercolors, oils, or acrylics, each medium has its own unique qualities. Experimentation is key. Dive into all of them until you find the one that resonates with you. For me, it’s acrylics. Their versatility allows me to create effects ranging from watercolor-like washes to thick, palette knife impasto techniques. Acrylics are also fantastic for mixed-media pieces, adding depth and texture to my work.
Creating several pieces of work is another part of the journey. Some will be masterpieces, while others might end up gathering dust in the attic. But that’s okay. Art is about inspiration, process, mistakes, revelations, and the escape to a place where you can be your true self. You might be surprised when others fall in love with a piece you didn’t think was your best.
Observing how other artists work can be incredibly enlightening. If you’ve ever watched “Sky’s Portrait Artist of the Year,” you’ll notice the myriad of approaches artists take. Some start with small details and expand outward; others cover the entire canvas to eliminate the intimidating blank space; some sketch out the main points or use a grid system. Each artist’s method is as unique as their finished piece.
My personal approach involves many different techniques. There’s no right or wrong way to do it; it’s all about what works for you. Once you find a method that suits you, it becomes a familiar and comforting process.
Collecting examples of other artists’ work is a great way to inspire and inform your own style. I keep a folder—both digital and physical—filled with pieces that catch my eye. I make notes on what I like about each one. Is it the use of color? The style? The technique? By understanding what draws you to specific works, you can incorporate similar elements into your own.
Reviewing your own work is just as important. Ask yourself what you liked about a piece, what didn’t work, and what you can improve. Was it the composition, the color palette, or the technique? Art is subjective, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Sometimes, the pieces you’re most critical of are the ones that resonate with others.
Finally, continue to learn and challenge yourself. Attend classes, workshops, and keep stretching those artistic muscles. I recently took an online workshop, which was a fantastic way to experiment with different media and techniques.
In the end, don’t stress about developing your style. Just keep painting, enjoying the process, and your style will naturally develop. Remember, art is about the journey, not the destination. So, grab your brush, embrace the mess, and let your style find you. And who knows? One day, someone might walk into a gallery, see a piece, and say, “That’s definitely one of yours.”
