Begin Your Art Journey: Step-by-Step Guide to Start as an Artist

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 5 June 2023 10 min read

Starting your journey as an artist can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. But, how to get started as an artist? This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process and set you on the path to success. Let's dive in!

Discover Your Passion

Before you can begin creating masterpieces, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what type of art truly sparks your interest. This involves exploring different art styles, finding inspiration, and developing your own unique style.

Exploring Art Styles

There are countless art styles out there, and discovering which one(s) resonate with you is the first step in becoming an artist. Some popular styles include:

Realism - focusing on capturing subjects accurately and in detail
Abstract - using shapes, colors, and textures to convey emotions or ideas
Impressionism - capturing the feeling or impression of a scene, often using loose brushstrokes
Pop Art - incorporating popular culture and bold, vibrant colors

Experiment with different styles by replicating existing works or creating your own. It's okay to mix and match elements from various styles to create something uniquely you!

Finding Inspiration

Inspiration can come from anywhere and anything—nature, music, literature, or even your own emotions. Make a habit of carrying a sketchbook or journal with you, and jot down or sketch ideas as they come to you. This will help you develop a rich library of ideas to draw from when creating your art.

Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore new subjects or techniques. Sometimes, the most unexpected experiences can lead to the most remarkable creative breakthroughs.

Developing a Personal Style

As you explore different art styles and experiment with various techniques, your own personal style will start to emerge. This is your unique artistic fingerprint, and it's what sets you apart from other artists. Pay attention to the elements that consistently show up in your work—color palettes, subject matter, or even your preferred medium. These factors contribute to your distinct style.

Remember, developing a personal style takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and embrace the journey. After all, that's what being an artist is all about!

Gather Essential Tools

Now that you've started discovering your passion, it's time to gather the tools you'll need to bring your artistic visions to life. From basic art supplies to digital tools and organizing your workspace, let's dive into the world of art tools and how to get started as an artist.

Basic Art Supplies

Regardless of the art style you're pursuing, there are some fundamental supplies you'll need to create your masterpieces. Here are some essentials to consider:

Pencils - A range of graphite and colored pencils for sketching and shading
Erasers - Different types, such as kneaded and gum erasers, for correcting mistakes
Paper - A variety of paper types, like sketch pads, watercolor paper, or canvas, depending on your medium
Paints - Acrylic, oil, or watercolor paints based on your preference and style
Brushes - A selection of brush sizes and shapes for various techniques and effects

As you progress in your art journey, you may find yourself wanting to experiment with new materials and mediums. Don't be afraid to explore and try new things!

Digital Art Tools

For artists interested in digital art, you'll need some tech-savvy tools to create your digital masterpieces. Here's a list of essentials:

Drawing tablet - An essential tool for digital artists that allows you to draw directly onto your computer
Stylus - A digital pen used in conjunction with a drawing tablet or touchscreen device
Software - Programs like Adobe Photoshop, Corel Painter, or Procreate for sketching, painting, and editing your digital art

Getting comfortable with digital art tools may require some practice, but it opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities!

Organizing Your Workspace

Having a dedicated and organized workspace is vital for nurturing your creativity. Consider these tips when setting up your art studio:

Location - Choose a space with ample natural light, good ventilation, and enough room to store your supplies
Storage - Keep your tools and materials organized with shelves, drawers, or containers to easily find what you need when inspiration strikes
Work surface - Invest in a sturdy table or easel that offers a comfortable working height and space for your projects

Remember, your workspace should inspire and motivate you. Fill it with items that spark your creativity, like artwork, plants, or inspiring quotes. After all, this is where the magic happens!

With your passion discovered and your tools gathered, you're well on your way to becoming an artist. Remember, practice makes perfect, and don't forget to enjoy the process as you start your art journey. So, what are you waiting for? Let's get started!

Hone Your Skills

Alright, so you've discovered your passion and gathered your essential tools. Now it's time to focus on honing your skills. Learning and improving are key aspects of how to get started as an artist. So, let's dive into various ways you can develop your artistic abilities and become a better artist!

Art Classes and Workshops

One of the most effective ways to improve your skills is by taking art classes or attending workshops. These can provide hands-on guidance and valuable feedback from experienced instructors. Here are some options to consider:

Local art centers or community colleges - Many offer affordable classes for beginner to advanced artists in various mediums and techniques.
Private lessons - If you prefer one-on-one instruction, consider hiring a local artist or art teacher to give you personalized coaching.
Workshops and retreats - These immersive experiences can be a fantastic way to learn new techniques, meet fellow artists, and gain fresh inspiration.

Remember, learning is a lifelong process, so don't be afraid to take classes or attend workshops even when you feel more experienced!

Online Tutorials

In today's digital age, there's a wealth of online resources available to help you strengthen your artistic skills. From video tutorials to blog posts, you can find a treasure trove of knowledge right at your fingertips. Some popular platforms for online art tutorials include:

YouTube - Search for channels dedicated to art tutorials and demonstrations in your preferred medium or style.
Online art courses - Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or Coursera offer a variety of art courses taught by professionals.
Art blogs and websites - Many artists share tips, tricks, and tutorials on their blogs or websites, which can be a goldmine of information.

Using online tutorials is a flexible and convenient way to learn, allowing you to hone your skills at your own pace.

Practice and Patience

As the saying goes, "practice makes perfect." Consistent practice is essential in developing your skills and refining your technique. Here are some tips to help you stay committed to your art journey:

Set goals - Establish specific, achievable goals for your art practice, such as dedicating a certain amount of time each day or completing a particular project.
Experiment - Don't be afraid to try new techniques, styles, or mediums. This can help you grow as an artist and discover new creative possibilities.
Be patient - Remember, becoming a skilled artist takes time, dedication, and perseverance. Embrace the learning process, and don't get discouraged by setbacks or challenges.

As you practice and improve, you'll gain more confidence in your abilities and find joy in your artistic journey. So keep going, and always remember to enjoy the process!

By honing your skills through classes, online tutorials, and consistent practice, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful artist. In the next section, we'll discuss how to build an impressive portfolio that showcases your unique talents and helps you stand out in the art world. Stay tuned!

Build Your Portfolio

Now that you've got a solid foundation in honing your skills, it's time to showcase your work and learn how to get started as an artist by building a strong portfolio. This is a crucial step in establishing yourself as a professional artist and attracting potential clients, galleries, or collectors. So let's dive into the process of selecting your best work, creating a digital portfolio, and presenting your art in the most attractive way possible!

Selecting Your Best Work

When building your portfolio, it's essential to choose pieces that represent your unique style and demonstrate your technical abilities. Here are some tips to help you select your best work:

Quality over quantity - It's better to have a smaller collection of exceptional pieces than a large assortment of mediocre ones. Aim for around 10-20 of your best works.
Variety - Show a range of techniques, styles, and subject matter to demonstrate your versatility as an artist. However, make sure your portfolio still feels cohesive and focused on your personal style.
Recent work - Include pieces from the past few years to show your current skill level and artistic direction. It's important to keep your portfolio up-to-date and relevant.

Remember, your portfolio is your chance to make a strong impression, so be selective and only include work that you're truly proud of.

Creating a Digital Portfolio

In today's digital world, having an online presence is essential for any artist. A digital portfolio allows you to easily share your work with potential clients, galleries, and fellow artists. Here are some key elements to consider when creating a digital portfolio:

Website platform - Choose a user-friendly website builder like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress to create a professional-looking portfolio without the need for coding skills.
Navigation - Organize your portfolio in a clear and easy-to-navigate way. Consider using categories or tags to group similar works together.
High-quality images - Showcase your art with high-resolution images, and ensure they accurately represent the colors and details of your work. This is crucial in capturing the attention of potential clients or collectors.
About page - Include a brief bio, artist statement, and contact information so visitors can learn more about you and your artistic journey.

By creating a digital portfolio, you'll be one step closer to establishing your online presence and making a name for yourself in the art world.

Presenting Your Work

Once you've selected your best work and created a digital portfolio, it's time to focus on presenting your art in a way that draws attention and leaves a lasting impression. Here are some tips to help you showcase your work effectively:

Titles and descriptions - Give each piece a title and a brief description, including details like the medium, size, and creation date. This helps provide context and allows viewers to appreciate your work on a deeper level.
Consistent branding - Use a consistent color scheme, font, and layout throughout your portfolio to create a cohesive and professional appearance. This reflects your attention to detail and commitment to your art.
Storytelling - Share the inspiration, process, or story behind your artwork to connect with your audience and give them insight into your creative journey. This helps to create a more personal and relatable experience for viewers.

By presenting your work in an appealing and engaging manner, you'll increase your chances of attracting clients, galleries, or collectors and successfully getting started as an artist.

With a strong portfolio in place, you're ready to take the next step in your art journey: establishing your presence in the art world. In the upcoming section, we'll explore how to use social media, networking, and exhibitions to make connections and grow your career as an artist. Stay tuned!

Establish Your Presence

Great job on building your portfolio! Now that you have a strong foundation, it's time to get your art out there and learn how to get started as an artist by establishing your presence in the art world. In this section, we'll discuss using social media, networking, and participating in art shows and exhibitions to make connections and grow your career as an artist. Are you ready? Let's dive in!

Did you know that social media can be a powerful tool for artists like you? It's true! Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest can help you showcase your work and connect with potential clients, fellow artists, or even fans. Here are some tips to make the most of social media:

Choose the right platform - Focus on platforms that emphasize visual content, like Instagram or Pinterest, as they're ideal for showcasing your art.
Consistency is key - Post regularly and maintain a consistent theme or style across your posts to create a cohesive and recognizable brand.
Engage with your audience - Respond to comments, ask questions, and share behind-the-scenes content to create a sense of connection with your followers.

Remember, social media is not just a place to showcase your art; it's also a platform to share your story and build relationships with others who share your passion.

Networking and Collaboration

As the saying goes, "It's not what you know, but who you know." Networking is an essential part of learning how to get started as an artist. Connecting with other artists, gallery owners, and industry professionals can open up new opportunities and help you grow as an artist. Here's how:

Join online communities - Participate in forums, Facebook groups, or art-specific platforms like DeviantArt or Dribbble to connect with like-minded individuals.
Attend local events - Art workshops, gallery openings, and other community events can be a great way to meet people in your local art scene.
Collaborate - Partner with other artists on projects or exhibitions to expand your network and learn from one another.

Don't be shy; put yourself out there and start building those connections!

Art Shows and Exhibitions

Ready to showcase your art in the real world? Participating in art shows and exhibitions can be a fantastic way to gain exposure, sell your work, and meet fellow artists. Here's what you need to know:

Find the right venues - Look for local galleries, art fairs, or community events that align with your style and audience.
Prepare your work - Make sure your art is professionally framed or mounted and have high-quality prints or reproductions available for sale.
Network - Use these events as an opportunity to make connections, gather feedback, and build relationships with potential clients or collaborators.

Remember, the more you put yourself out there, the more opportunities you'll have to grow and succeed as an artist.

And there you have it! By following these steps and putting in the effort, you'll be well on your way to learning how to get started as an artist. So go ahead, discover your passion, gather your tools, hone your skills, build your portfolio, and establish your presence in the art world. Your art journey awaits—happy creating!

If you're ready to begin your art journey and need some guidance on how to get started, don't miss Adrian Valencia's workshop, 'Getting Started and Taking Off as a Creative'. This workshop will provide you with step-by-step guidance and practical advice to help you kickstart your artistic career and make your mark in the creative world.