6 Practical Ways to Expand Your Artistic Horizons and Explore New Mediums

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 19 June 2023 6 min read

As an artist, it's important to continually grow and evolve in your craft. One of the best ways to expand your artistic horizons and explore new mediums is by utilizing the many resources available to you. In this blog post, we'll discuss some practical and accessible approaches that can help you broaden your artistic toolkit and discover new horizons in your creative journey.

1. Embracing Online Resources

For budding artists or experienced creators looking for new ways to expand their artistic horizons, the internet can be an invaluable resource. There are numerous online platforms available where you can learn about new mediums and techniques, and even practice your skills with the guidance of experts. Here are some popular online resources to consider:

Skillshare

Skillshare is an online learning platform offering thousands of classes covering various creative topics, including illustration, painting, and digital art. With a subscription, you gain access to an extensive library of video lessons taught by experienced artists and professionals. Skillshare can help you:

Discover new mediums and techniques
Learn at your own pace
Receive feedback from fellow artists

Udemy

Udemy is another popular online learning platform that offers a wide range of art courses. You can choose from topics such as drawing, painting, or even animation. Unlike Skillshare, Udemy courses are individually priced, allowing you to purchase and own specific classes without needing a monthly subscription. Benefits of using Udemy include:

Access to in-depth courses on specific topics
One-time purchase of courses
Learn from industry professionals

YouTube

YouTube is a treasure trove of free content for artists looking to learn new skills or explore different mediums. Many talented artists and educators share tutorials, demonstrations, and tips on their channels. To make the most of YouTube, you can:

Subscribe to channels focused on your interests
Participate in the comments section for feedback and discussion
Save playlists of helpful tutorials for future reference

By embracing these online resources, you can find ample ways to expand your artistic horizons and explore new mediums in a practical and accessible manner.

2. Experimenting with New Materials

Another way to expand your artistic horizons is by experimenting with new materials. Trying out different art supplies and techniques can help you discover new possibilities in your work and unlock your creative potential. Let's take a look at some popular mediums you can explore:

Acrylics

Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that offers a wide range of possibilities. It dries quickly, allowing you to layer and build up your artwork easily. To get started with acrylics, consider the following tips:

Invest in a basic set of acrylic paints to experiment with
Practice blending colors and layering techniques
Experiment with different surfaces, like canvas or wood

Gouache

Gouache is a water-based paint that has a unique, matte finish. It can be used similarly to both watercolors and acrylics, making it an exciting medium to explore. To begin experimenting with gouache, try the following:

Purchase a starter set of gouache paints
Experiment with different levels of water dilution for varied opacity
Practice painting on watercolor paper or illustration board

Watercolors

Watercolors are a classic medium that can produce beautiful, delicate effects. They're perfect for artists who want to explore a more fluid and organic style. To get started with watercolors, consider these tips:

Invest in a beginner-friendly set of watercolor paints
Learn basic techniques such as wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry
Practice on watercolor paper to achieve the best results

By experimenting with these new materials, not only will you expand your artistic horizons, but you'll also gain a deeper understanding of different mediums and how they can enhance your creative process.

3. Taking Local Art Classes

Taking local art classes is another excellent way to expand your artistic horizons and explore new mediums. By learning from experienced instructors and working alongside other artists, you can pick up new techniques, get inspired, and grow as an artist. Here are some places where you can find art classes near you:

Community Centers

Community centers often offer affordable art classes covering various mediums and skill levels. They provide a welcoming environment for artists to learn and connect with others who share the same passion. To find art classes in your area, you can:

Check your local community center's website or bulletin board for class listings
Ask friends or family members if they know of any available classes
Search online for art classes in your city or town

Art Schools

Art schools, colleges, and universities often offer continuing education classes for people interested in expanding their artistic skills. These classes can provide you with a more structured learning environment and access to professional-grade resources. To find art classes at an art school near you, try the following:

Visit the websites of local art schools or colleges to see if they offer continuing education courses
Contact the school's admissions office for information on class schedules and registration
Keep an eye out for open houses or information sessions to learn more about the school and its offerings

Whether you choose to take classes at a community center or an art school, you'll be on your way to expanding your artistic horizons and exploring new mediums in a supportive and educational environment.

4. Collaborating with Other Artists

Collaborating with other artists is a fantastic way to expand your artistic horizons and explore new mediums. By working together, you can learn from each other's experiences, share ideas, and create unique artwork that combines your individual strengths. Here are some tips on how to connect with fellow artists and start collaborating:

Networking

Networking is essential for connecting with like-minded artists who can inspire you and push your creative boundaries. To build your network of fellow artists, you can:

Attend art events, such as gallery openings, art fairs, and workshops
Join online art forums or social media groups dedicated to your preferred medium or style
Reach out to local artists whose work you admire and express your interest in collaborating

Artist Meetups

Artist meetups provide an opportunity for artists to gather, work on projects together, and exchange ideas. These events can help you forge new connections and find potential collaborators. To locate artist meetups in your area, you can:

Search for artist meetups on websites like Meetup.com or Facebook groups
Ask around at local art supply stores or community centers for information on any upcoming gatherings
Consider starting your own artist meetup if none are available in your area

Collaborating with other artists not only allows you to explore new mediums, but it also encourages growth and innovation in your work. By working together, you can create something truly unique and expand your artistic horizons beyond what you could achieve on your own.

5. Immersing Yourself in Art

Immersing yourself in art is a wonderful way to expand your artistic horizons and discover new mediums. By surrounding yourself with diverse forms of art, you can gain inspiration, learn new techniques, and develop a deeper appreciation for the creative process. Here are some easy ways to immerse yourself in the world of art:

Art Galleries

Visiting art galleries can introduce you to various styles, techniques, and mediums you may not have encountered before. By observing the work of other artists, you can:

Discover new styles, techniques, or materials that you can incorporate into your own work
Learn about the history and evolution of different art forms
Gain inspiration from the creativity of others

Museums

Museums house a wealth of artistic treasures that can inspire and educate you. Exploring museums can help you:

Learn about the cultural and historical context of various art movements
Appreciate the craftsmanship and skill involved in creating different types of artwork
Draw inspiration from famous artists and their masterpieces

By immersing yourself in the world of art, you can expose yourself to new ideas and techniques that can help you expand your artistic horizons. As you discover new mediums and styles, you'll be inspired to push the boundaries of your own creative practice and develop a unique artistic voice.

6. Setting Personal Challenges

Setting personal challenges is an effective way to expand your artistic horizons and explore new mediums. By pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and trying new things, you can unlock your creative potential and grow as an artist. Here are some ideas for personal challenges that can help you explore new artistic avenues:

Art Prompts

Art prompts are a fun way to challenge yourself and experiment with new ideas, styles, or mediums. They can be found online or in books, and often consist of a word, phrase, or theme to inspire a piece of art. Using art prompts can help you:

Break free from creative blocks
Develop a regular art practice
Discover new techniques or styles you enjoy

Daily Drawing Challenges

Daily drawing challenges are a fantastic way to build your artistic skills and explore new mediums. These challenges typically involve creating a piece of art every day for a set period of time, such as a month or a year. Participating in daily drawing challenges can:

Improve your drawing skills through consistent practice
Help you develop a routine and commitment to your art
Encourage you to experiment with new materials, techniques, or subjects

By setting personal challenges and pushing yourself to try new things, you can expand your artistic horizons and discover new mediums that resonate with you. Embrace the learning process, and remember that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and exploring the unknown.

If you're looking to push your creative boundaries and explore new artistic horizons, don't miss the workshop 'Expanding your Creative Comfort Zones' by Celina Rodriguez. This workshop will provide you with practical tips and strategies to help you break free from your creative limitations and unlock your full artistic potential.