This is incredibly important advice. I’d also like to add in that if you feel like your style changes it’s because you discover and try out new things which is good because you can later implement them in your other pieces. However, most of the time these changes in style are barely noticeable to an outside viewer, you might think it makes a drastic difference because you know how you usually draw but to an outside viewer it’s a natural progression of your style, the same way you change as a person, gradually and thoughtfully. With each new thing you experiment and try out you gain more experience and it’s up to you which ones to continue implementing or which ones to leave in the past. I’ve realized this only lately and majorly thanks to Adam’s videos. I can’t thank you, Adam, personally enough. You’ve been a major support that’s kept me going through thick and thin. These videos really make my day.
"That basic boring self that you are is only basic and boring to you" That's so true, and so important to be aware of. I've got to remember to tell myself this when I get nervous about meeting people.
15:36 - 15:54 Damn - I can't believe that Adam snatched my ankles from the comfort of my bed at 8:30 in the morning. I'd like to think I draw whatever interests me, but in my day-to-day dealings with people I don't believe many people care much about my opinions or feelings on things. I don't believe there is much of any reason for them to care, especially everyone has their own things going on. I think at some point that mindset leaked into my artistic expression; there are times I'm emotional and consider making art to reflect those feelings, but I think that my feelings and the way I'm thinking of expressing them aren't unique to me, and I just let the feelings pass.
It really spoke a lot to me, because I got so used to growing up where no one cares about feelings, and that expressing them was a complete waste of time.
I need to stop crying, my graphic tablet is getting wet :D Adam, your words always hit me deep in the core, your talk always feels like a warm nice hug. and i really need this now, so thank you - you wonderful human being :) Greetings from germany and keep it up man. I enjoy listening to you so much in the morning.
I went from drawing anime style, to concept art, to vector art, to a more painterly style, to speedpainting... I even tried some basic 3D! It took a pandemic for me to stop, look back, and realize what it is that i have fun doing and, most of all, what i'm pationate about. Turns out its the more cartoon style of illustration. Its great to admire other people's work, but it doesnt mean you should incoporate or follow their style.
This is something that is looming atop my head during the last months. It feels like there IS an undercurrent, a voice of expression calling from the chaos of murk thrown up by trying to run around doing everything. Which gets nothing done. But honing in to that soft, barely audible voice is incredibly difficult, and that is somewhat the reason for that wandering about all the aisles of artistic, or better said overall creative possibilities, because it's NOT just about painting or modeling. It's about expressing those inner fascinations. Philosophy is a very good way of putting it. It ends up were trying to find not a single "point" where we shall stand, but a way of bringing together all those things that fascinate us. Not all will survive the journey. But what do we get out of their collision? A mess or something beautiful? That's a terrifying question. It took Duffman basically half his life to get there, so why are we all in a hurry? Well, that drive just doesn't let us be. The desire to create something of quality is contradicted by the undefined and shattered into many, an unsustainable route. I guess our mind is the problem. It wants this and that, but we really just need it to shut up... And just manifest what we identify with internally, instead of externally. Active rumination.
I am not an artist. I just come to watch you create a piece and listen. But man, even for where I am in life this message hit home quite a bit! Loved it!
Literally as I was listening to this I was looking at another artists work and thinking "I'm gonna try to do this" and, while it's not a bad idea to try something else, it's important not to get drunk on it, if that makes any sense.
It’s hard to fully articulate how much this very thing has hurt me over the decades…I used to be so confident with my expression, be it writing or art, I never worried about whether it was “good enough”, I just loved to create whatever popped into my head. And then one day, in my teens, I discovered _other_ people’s art, and that all began to change. At first, I tried to incorporate what I admired, like you described, but in the end, it was always a disappointing attempt. I didn’t stop looking though, and the more I saw, and admired, the less I wanted to draw. It was as if all that skill and genuine creativity so utterly eclipsed my own, that there was no point. What I was capable of, the ideas that came to me, were just nothing in comparison. And sad to say, after many years of struggling, I gave up. I stopped sketching, I stopped creating characters and stories, I stopped dreaming. I left the duty of creative expression to those others, who I saw as so much more gifted, more worthy of the opportunity, than me, and went a different way. I had dreamed of being an animator, a concept artist, a story writer, someone who could truly bring their ideas to _life_ - I wanted that more than anything - but I couldn’t do it; in the end, I didn’t even try. Even now, all I do is watch. And I wonder…was that really me, all those years ago, filling sketchbooks, filling pages, dreaming all the time? Did I really change so much? Did I become someone else? Did that part of me die and cease to exist when I stopped believing in it? Truthfully, I don’t know. I know that it hurts when I think about it, that something deeply painful is moved whenever I hear someone like you, Adam, or any other artist I watch, speak about how they’ve struggled, and persevered, through the same things that I have felt, and been crushed by. I think that some of it is shame, and some of it is hope; but most of all, it is that horrible certainty that, even now, I _still_ don’t belong, that I never will. That no matter how much affinity I feel for something, the truth is, it’s not what I’m made for. I don’t know _what_ I’m made for. I’m not a real artist, I’m not a real writer, I’m not even a real scientist, and that’s what I’m _trained_ to do. I just _exist_ somewhere in the space between other people. But ANYWAY…that’s entirely enough of that xD thank you, Adam, for sharing your experience…it made me cry…Carry on xP
You are most definitely a true artist. The way you express yourself with words is beautiful. They are not just plain words, I could feel the emotion behind it while reading and dived into your mind for a short few seconds. Please do not give up on yourself and your creative spirit. What makes us so utterly beautiful is, that we all are so unique in the way we remain and express ourselves. Take it to your heart and create what has been locked up in there.
@@larissazahner7883 Wow..thank you for those words...truly, they could be some of the nicest compliments anyone's ever given me :') I hadn't realised how much it hurt that no one ever noticed or appreciated how much I pour into my words, until somone did. So thank you for sharing it 💜 I feel very encouraged 🤗
@WrigglePiglet --> The most precious and fragile spark of creation died within me about 4 years ago. I have absolutely no idea what happened. It is literally like a part of me just faded into nothingness and I became empty inside; an automaton. My whole life was an adventure of creation, an inferno of ideas. 3D renders, animation, design, music, video editing, writing..nearly finished a novel too, not to mention entire video game levels polished and playable. I could not wait to get out of bed to throw myself into this amazing whirlwind. Then...suddenly darkness. Almost from one day to another. Nothing but cold ashes. I still try from time to time but now the act of creation feels so pointless and forced. As years ruthlessly tick by, soon enough, I will have to accept that my most cherished characteristic is dead, never to return. It seems that you and I are not so different; we both feel an intense sense of loss. Loss of self. I have no wisdom for you friend, not even a whisper of hope. All that I can tell you is that someone, somewhere understands you and knows your pain. With sincerity I wish that I could offer words of comfort and respite, alas I cannot. Thank you for your honesty and effort. Be well.
Thanks for your honesty, Adam. I've always leaned towards your side of the argument, we should be finding our philosophy (style) asap so we can live the best life and have work come to us because we're known for that particular thing. Taking the basic individual parts of ourselves for granted - Is exactly what we need to focus on to express ourselves authentically. Love this topic.
I just discovered your channel like 25 minutes ago. The first video that i watched in you channel was "Procrastination is not related to your laziness." I just started drawing 2 days ago. In all honesty I already bought the materials i need to start drawing like 6 months ago. I started drawing for about 2 days then stopped, I always say to myself that it's too hard. Well because of you I wanted to start drawing again. You're an inspiration. Thanks!
I havent been following you that long but.....i cannot wait for you to post another video, this is a highlight of my day. Because of you I have been moving forward with my own art. This hasn't happened in years. You saved me from utter destruction with myself and my art. Thank you.
Every time I start to struggle with my resolve or fail to see the artistic side of me,,, a video of yours always pops up into my recommended. Reading comments of people who are/ have gone through the same thing just shows how similar we all are. Thank you. I don't have a very long and meaningful thing to say besides Thank you. You have helped me and others in ways you may not even fathom, so just,,,, thank you.
Your videos are so valuable to me Adam, there's nothing better to listen to for me while painting. I want you to know that after hearing your quit smoking story I quit myself and am now over a month smoke free. Thank you.
After thinking abou this topic I realized that, to me, style is taste. Or at least is closely related too. My style of clothing is what I like to see and (would) like to dress. My style of music is music that I enjoy listening. So my style of art is drawing things as if the intended audience is comprised of lots of me. Things drawn in a way that I'd enjoy to see. I don't know if it's the same for everyone, but for me it matches what Adam said. I need to know exactly what I like. I need to know what my tastes are. I need to know myself. For it was when I learned who am I that I discovered what I like, and thus, what my style is.
You know, Adam, this talk really got me without me expecting it! I have never cared for style, I only went with it as you said. E.g. as a hobbyist teen I always "stole" stuff from mangaka I liked, the eyes here, the body shapes from there, and so on. But only recently I have gotten to a point where I don't know what to do. Since I decided two years ago that I want to become a professional artist, I don't know which way to go. I love grotesque stuff, survival horror or soulsborne concept art and I'd really love to paint these great gothic buildings for such dark games. Heck, I found out a few months ago that I love drawing achitecture which I had never believed in before! On the other hand my mind and heart always crawl back to my Nintendo, anime and japan loving self as if they want to tell me: "You know you are still a child at heart. You are the most happy when you do things you always loved but somehow surpressed the past ten years. You could not live without Nintendogames and deep inside you you know that you belong to Japan, heck, you even did japanese studies for that! Go for your dream and fulfill it with the triforce inside you!" I am so torn. xD
When I am lost, I always listen to your videos to stop feeling alone and to remember myself that all this back&forth are part of the process. Thanks for your videos
Philosophy. Wow. That’s a perspective. Style has always haunted me all this time. Especially when i derailed from art for 6 years. Coming back expecting to just pick up where I left off was a dream. The muscle memory and the mentality was totally different already. But this. Style became a thing. But this makes total sense. Thank you for this Adam...Philosophy...Wow...I’m going to share this on my introspection blog soon...
Man no matter what you have a way of sounding like my grandfather who always believed in me as an artist and it always brings me to tears in a good way
I’m glad I discovered your channel a couple weeks ago. It’s crazy how easy it is to calm down and draw, just listening to these videos. They’re very therapeutic and centering, in some strange way.
You’ve tackled this perfectly. I went to , in my opinion, the top Art H.S. of NY and despite that I felt no different from anyone else . In fact , I felt like my talent wasn’t cared for even in the eyes of my own surroundings. Time and time again you remind me why what i do matters and with this video it blatantly tells me that I’m different . Thank you
You know Adam, it was actually you who inspired my desire to really determine what my inspirations are and who I want to be as an artist. I’ve been a bit of a style chameleon for the past few years but there’s been one artist in my life who’s work I have never stopped admiring nor wanting to be like: Tony DiTerlizzi. If you haven’t seen his work or heard of him, please take a few minutes to do so. A few months ago I came across your book review on Brian Froud’s Faeries and realized I had been a small child when I first saw this book in a public library. Within about 5 hours of watching your video I had purchased an old library copy off of eBay and have been studying his work ever since. I determined that I love Brian Froud’s work, the work of Tony DiTerlizzi, but I also really love director Miyazaki’s work. So I’m now trying to mishmash anime and spider wick chronicles together, essentially. Anyways, aptly timed video from you since this past week I have been grinding out figuring what my style is and I’m really, really enjoying the journey of discovering what exactly that is. Thank you, Adam!
Omg, thank you so much! I needed this so much! You always talk about what I need in the exact moment! Take care, hugs. I cant express my gratitude enough :>
Somehow, every week you manage to make a video on the subject I'm struggling with at the moment. It feels like you are taking the algorithm one step farther. "What do I need to know, hear, learn, understand this week?" And that's exactly what I get when I open TH-cam. Your content is the only thing that stands out from all the noise. True honest insight. Not only the message,but more important than that , how you share it. Every video is an extension of your art. The simplicity, the tone, the mood, the music. And your art itself is an extension of who you are as a person. You manage to stick to your vision, your own philosophy as you mention, instead of chasing a formula based on numbers in the pursue of "success". So lucky to have you influence my journey. Hopefully some day I can "pay you back".
Great video as always Adam. Defining my style has been the hardest thing to focus on personally over the years. My most recent art I finished I really tried hard to just shut out all the outside influences (other artists and money) and tried to be genuine to my own feelings and desires. I think it is one of my stronger pieces and it might not sell like crazy but I'm happier for making it. It helped me find my passion again in creating for myself and not people pleasing. Being true to yourself is a long term investment.
I only recently came across your channel and I truly appreciate your calm and comforting videos. It is easy to feel lost, uncertain and insecure about art. Thanks for the help to reflect on the purpose of- and remember the 'spark' for- creating art.
Hi Adam, I just found your channel and listened to what you had to say. I’m short for words to express the inspiration and determination you put out to lift my spirit and continue with my journey. I still need to watch your other videos which look interesting. I love the way you describe style and I have to agree with you. It is not easy to realize what exactly one is missing until someone else might point it out, and this time sir, it is you who spoke loud and clear about style! Wow! Thanks so much! This video came into my life at the right time and I have to appreciate the time, the effort and the commitment to your people to guide them directly into the right path. I’m inspired now and it is thanks to you. I’m subscribing to your channel and I have lots of videos to watch! Many blessings and much success in everything you do. Most of all, please be safe.
thank you for such a lovely video what a strange coincidence that, not even an hour ago, I was lamenting how lost I felt, how I didn't know how to define myself I think I have an idea what direction to go in now
I think a style develops by itself if you don't rely too much on artistic role models as you say. I know for myself that I've got a kind of style (not always loved by myself) that at least ist recognizable. I find it much harder to develop a kind of narrative with my art, a structure where you can see my train of thoughts, my interests. Artist that manage it e.g. Loish or Bastien Lecouffe Deharme are not just recognizable by style but at the conglomeration of style and narrative. Btw subscribed ;)
This is perfect timing, I'm working on the biggest project I have ever tried (a five chapter comic over the course of one month XD) and am really doubting myself and my drawings to be able to do this in a way where I can reach the people I want to. Your video gave me some great insights on how to move forward without being consumed by the ever present stream of "not good enough" going through my brain :P
Hey, Adam. Just wanted to comment here to let you know that your life experiences and stories have helped me get through a lot of self doubt and negativity regarding my art and me as a person. Thank you for creating videos and thank you for telling us your story. As always, you're amazing ❤
Ahhh, I LOOOVE how you work on the same drawing through different videos. It makes the focus not on the finished art product, but rather, the process itself, which is often underappreciated and overlooked in a sense.
Thank you Again Adam, your advise comes just right on the moment i needed it. been feeling very low almost wanting to quit art overall, because i can clearly see the stuff i draw is not really popular.. or nobody really seems to give a shit about it, i love what you do please keep doing these videos!
I really liked what you said about the old and tattered, it is those things that incorporate into my building and landscaping etc, it makes the place feel timeless and lived in. Thank you for your talks 💎
Your videos are invaluable and wonderful. More people need to hear them and they always come out when I seem to need them them most. Thank you for helping us navigate the often confusing world within ourselves.
I remember watching a TED talk (in french) this weekend kinda linked to that topic, here's the link if you want to listen to it: th-cam.com/video/Y7Xbsa7ss4I/w-d-xo.html The last exercice the speaker ask us to do is to remember our childhood hero and his/her first quality we associate with them. It's more than often a quality or a value that is deeply rooted into you. It made me think about my art heroes and what drives me to create when I was a kid. I went deep inside me, and looked at these little pieces of me. I understood what I did for myself, what I did to please other and that make me feels fake and I want not enjoying creating anymore. Lemme be clear, I'm a freelancer artist for 7 years now, work is something and personal art is another thing. The point is, I was unable to create for myself and it made my love for art barren. I was creating for work only, and I'm able to switch easily between art styles because I kinda erase my own philosophy. For the past 3 years, I was on a journey to fall in love with art again and I found out that the best way to find yourself is like Adam suggest us, look at your younger self, your taste, your goal, your love. I want to be known as a creature designer because I have a blast doing creatures, thinking about how they eat, walk, reproduce. Paint their environments, create ecosystem! And for now on, regarding my personal work, I'll work in that way and eventually, as I grow on that path, I'll attract projects that suit my philosophy! Love guys!
I look forward to these videos. Every one that I've watched, I feel like a piece of myself falls into place and is validated. I feel like the doubts about myself as an artist are slowly resolved and I can move forward. In the 2 months that I've been following your channel, I've felt myself grow so much, and I want to thank you for sharing your experiences. 💛
Thank You for sharing this... I spent 2 whole years stagnating and basically stopped creating art for myself. I love artistic expression but sharing my art with others had always made me feel vulnerable and over time I realized how much what you create actually says about you. I'm not worried about finding a style or an artistic voice because I know who I am deep down and what kinds of things I'm easily drawn to. I used to experiment with all kinds of approaches a lot too! It's just that nowadays I get kind of embarrassed whenever someone sees my drawings. It feels like sharing a very intimate part of myself with people and I'm sensitive to the judgment. I love getting feedback though and I appreciate people helping me to improve but exposing yourself to larger audiences often comes with many different groups of people, not only artists. Sorry if it's not entirely on-topic but when you mentioned discovering yourself, what you like, and experimenting with it, it really hit home for me. I used to be so in touch with myself and I really miss those times.
This is by far the best video on this topic. It broke it down in such an understandable way, it's honestly the first one that has made sense to me. Thank you Adam, for being you. Thank you for bringing me peace of mind as always.
Thank you so much, Adam. I've been trying to find my style and improve and been running away from the things I like to draw: horror and dark castles. I've been told to draw cuter things like anime and pictures of people in bright settings. I don't like drawing those things, and because no one told me the dark things I like to draw are great, I never committed to it. I guess I needed permission to be myself. It's a challenge to be authentic every day. Thank you again, I love your videos.
Hi adam, i always listen to your videos while drawing and sometimes when i need to remember some things to myself through the life stories you tell. Im really grateful because you touch several points of insecurity i personaly feel as a begginer artist. Thanks for doing this :)
I was feeling very down about art again and your videos (to me its more of, a podcast or something good to listen to) are helping me cope with my struggles. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and helping other artists this way. The music was calming already and your words struck to me quite a lot. In a good way, of course. Happy painting, everyone
Thank you, as always. Any video of yours moves me and gives me the strength to either go on or start creating art. I'm a fashion designer and I feel like your words apply so well to my approach to how I make clothes. Especially after 1 month of being forced to stay home, I gained some creativity back and I'm trying to let go of negative thoughts that might originate from what I do. I compare myself to others too much, and it's not good.
Thank you I enjoy watching your videos they have often given me peace and a better understanding of my self. There have been times that I've been really harsh with my critique of myself. Of how I do things and what the end result is, usually in the pursuit of an art style. I like the mindset of what is my art philosophy than style it makes me feel less trapped and more excited for what I want to convey.
Turns out I can’t find my art style/philosophy because I REALLY don’t know myself. When you said to look inward and think about who I am as a person, I truly couldn’t think of anything. This is a tough cookie to crack, because like you said, it also applies to music. And I am an independent music artist as well…😅
Hi Adam! I'm a junior illustration student and I have a project to interview one of my favorite artist and was wondering if you were available for a few questions, ten or so?! Been subbed to you for a while, the faries video you made opened my eyes to what look/genre I wanted to pursue. Sorry if youtube comments are a bad place to ask. I tired Instagram aswell.
Thank you so much for your advice. It really helped me on my journey on becoming a better artist. I struggled a lot recently thinking about what kind of artist I want to become and if it's even the right choice at all. Well, your video inspired me a lot - seeing my style as a philosophy and the progress of finding myself. Really glad I stumbled upon your channel!
I don't know how you are doing it... but you talk about some things that may be quite obvious or about things wchih I already heard at Academy and you make them so easy to understand. I have a feeling that when I am listenig to you I start to understad all of these 'obvious' things for the first time. You realy make learnig easy
The way an artist approaches their work can vary from time to time. Sometimes I see a very clear image in my mind and I feel extremely compelled to 'get it out' and down on paper. Other times I do studies, just draw and interpret what I see or doodle whatever comes to mind. Or I might need to illustrate a specific idea or concept and approach it with a design focus. (For example a character design or storyboard for animation).
my mother describe me as weird... It did hurt on the time.... now I like it, if even my mother thinks i am weird, i must be very weird hahaha and I was thinking about the things I like as you said, things I like since I understand myself as a person, and I realize I like very specific things and I totallly could and want to put these things in my art, because they are pretty cool
Adam are secretly my FBI guy? 😂 Lately I’ve been feeling like my art lacks... soul? If that makes any sense. I enjoy how I draw, so it’s not completely technical but I feel like I still need to push it from an emotional stand point. So I’m taking this week to go back to stuff that I loved as a kid, stuff that made me want to become an artist when I grew up and just make notes on why it made me love art and storytelling. It’s definitely gonna be fun!
For a few months, I've been floored wondering why I couldn't come up with cool shots like in other amazing animation reels. Now, I am starting to remember some stupid fun ideas I want to try.
Woow ... I just found the best channel on youtube , Thank you so much! Your art also reminds me a lot of Guillermo Del Toro's characters ...." Monsters Are Living, Breathing Metaphors"
This is off topic, but would you ever consider doing a video where you talk about the 'grind' of art? As in just how much work is required to make it into the professional industry. Sort of like 'FZD's Design Cinema Podcast - Learning On Your Own'. I understand your channel and content is about artists taking it easy on themselves, but it would be interesting to hear your thoughts on the insane work ethic it takes to become a skilful artist. Cheers.
Slight off topic - gotta still finish the vid. So far awesome and thank you Adam BUT OH man I was wondering who you were painting AND MAN IT WAS OUR OLD FAVORITE BABA JAGA :3 Couldn't be more happier or attached to the painting of yours than with this one. Big thumbs up ;)
This is incredibly important advice. I’d also like to add in that if you feel like your style changes it’s because you discover and try out new things which is good because you can later implement them in your other pieces. However, most of the time these changes in style are barely noticeable to an outside viewer, you might think it makes a drastic difference because you know how you usually draw but to an outside viewer it’s a natural progression of your style, the same way you change as a person, gradually and thoughtfully. With each new thing you experiment and try out you gain more experience and it’s up to you which ones to continue implementing or which ones to leave in the past. I’ve realized this only lately and majorly thanks to Adam’s videos. I can’t thank you, Adam, personally enough. You’ve been a major support that’s kept me going through thick and thin. These videos really make my day.
Hugely valuable advice
The art community is so friendly and peaceful i love it
Not all of it tho... sadly
There are some toxic ass people but still ,experienced artists wanting to help beginners and artists seeking help is the most wholesome thing ever
There will always be toxic people, which makes our contribution to society that much more important
"That basic boring self that you are is only basic and boring to you" That's so true, and so important to be aware of. I've got to remember to tell myself this when I get nervous about meeting people.
15:36 - 15:54
Damn - I can't believe that Adam snatched my ankles from the comfort of my bed at 8:30 in the morning. I'd like to think I draw whatever interests me, but in my day-to-day dealings with people I don't believe many people care much about my opinions or feelings on things. I don't believe there is much of any reason for them to care, especially everyone has their own things going on. I think at some point that mindset leaked into my artistic expression; there are times I'm emotional and consider making art to reflect those feelings, but I think that my feelings and the way I'm thinking of expressing them aren't unique to me, and I just let the feelings pass.
It really spoke a lot to me, because I got so used to growing up where no one cares about feelings, and that expressing them was a complete waste of time.
I need to stop crying, my graphic tablet is getting wet :D
Adam, your words always hit me deep in the core, your talk always feels like a warm nice hug.
and i really need this now, so thank you - you wonderful human being :)
Greetings from germany and keep it up man.
I enjoy listening to you so much in the morning.
same man, its what gets me up and going on the worst days. great replay value :D
I feel a lot better that I'm not the only one who started crying.
Adam really spoke what I've been struggling with without being able to express.
I went from drawing anime style, to concept art, to vector art, to a more painterly style, to speedpainting... I even tried some basic 3D! It took a pandemic for me to stop, look back, and realize what it is that i have fun doing and, most of all, what i'm pationate about. Turns out its the more cartoon style of illustration. Its great to admire other people's work, but it doesnt mean you should incoporate or follow their style.
This is something that is looming atop my head during the last months. It feels like there IS an undercurrent, a voice of expression calling from the chaos of murk thrown up by trying to run around doing everything. Which gets nothing done.
But honing in to that soft, barely audible voice is incredibly difficult, and that is somewhat the reason for that wandering about all the aisles of artistic, or better said overall creative possibilities, because it's NOT just about painting or modeling. It's about expressing those inner fascinations. Philosophy is a very good way of putting it. It ends up were trying to find not a single "point" where we shall stand, but a way of bringing together all those things that fascinate us. Not all will survive the journey. But what do we get out of their collision? A mess or something beautiful? That's a terrifying question.
It took Duffman basically half his life to get there, so why are we all in a hurry?
Well, that drive just doesn't let us be. The desire to create something of quality is contradicted by the undefined and shattered into many, an unsustainable route.
I guess our mind is the problem. It wants this and that, but we really just need it to shut up...
And just manifest what we identify with internally, instead of externally.
Active rumination.
It's like an inverse prism everything you have learned and experienced focuses into one and becomes your art style.
Thank you for the permission to actually fall asleep
I am not an artist. I just come to watch you create a piece and listen. But man, even for where I am in life this message hit home quite a bit! Loved it!
I don't usually comment anywhere, but I want to say that your videos are amazing. I wouldn't be where I am now without your content.
Literally as I was listening to this I was looking at another artists work and thinking "I'm gonna try to do this" and, while it's not a bad idea to try something else, it's important not to get drunk on it, if that makes any sense.
it makes
@@marcelperes6842 thank
It’s hard to fully articulate how much this very thing has hurt me over the decades…I used to be so confident with my expression, be it writing or art, I never worried about whether it was “good enough”, I just loved to create whatever popped into my head. And then one day, in my teens, I discovered _other_ people’s art, and that all began to change. At first, I tried to incorporate what I admired, like you described, but in the end, it was always a disappointing attempt. I didn’t stop looking though, and the more I saw, and admired, the less I wanted to draw. It was as if all that skill and genuine creativity so utterly eclipsed my own, that there was no point. What I was capable of, the ideas that came to me, were just nothing in comparison. And sad to say, after many years of struggling, I gave up. I stopped sketching, I stopped creating characters and stories, I stopped dreaming. I left the duty of creative expression to those others, who I saw as so much more gifted, more worthy of the opportunity, than me, and went a different way. I had dreamed of being an animator, a concept artist, a story writer, someone who could truly bring their ideas to _life_ - I wanted that more than anything - but I couldn’t do it; in the end, I didn’t even try.
Even now, all I do is watch. And I wonder…was that really me, all those years ago, filling sketchbooks, filling pages, dreaming all the time? Did I really change so much? Did I become someone else? Did that part of me die and cease to exist when I stopped believing in it? Truthfully, I don’t know. I know that it hurts when I think about it, that something deeply painful is moved whenever I hear someone like you, Adam, or any other artist I watch, speak about how they’ve struggled, and persevered, through the same things that I have felt, and been crushed by. I think that some of it is shame, and some of it is hope; but most of all, it is that horrible certainty that, even now, I _still_ don’t belong, that I never will. That no matter how much affinity I feel for something, the truth is, it’s not what I’m made for. I don’t know _what_ I’m made for. I’m not a real artist, I’m not a real writer, I’m not even a real scientist, and that’s what I’m _trained_ to do. I just _exist_ somewhere in the space between other people. But ANYWAY…that’s entirely enough of that xD thank you, Adam, for sharing your experience…it made me cry…Carry on xP
You are most definitely a true artist. The way you express yourself with words is beautiful. They are not just plain words, I could feel the emotion behind it while reading and dived into your mind for a short few seconds. Please do not give up on yourself and your creative spirit. What makes us so utterly beautiful is, that we all are so unique in the way we remain and express ourselves. Take it to your heart and create what has been locked up in there.
@@larissazahner7883 Wow..thank you for those words...truly, they could be some of the nicest compliments anyone's ever given me :') I hadn't realised how much it hurt that no one ever noticed or appreciated how much I pour into my words, until somone did. So thank you for sharing it 💜 I feel very encouraged 🤗
@WrigglePiglet
--> The most precious and fragile spark of creation died within me about 4 years ago. I have absolutely no idea what happened. It is literally like a part of me just faded into nothingness and I became empty inside; an automaton. My whole life was an adventure of creation, an inferno of ideas. 3D renders, animation, design, music, video editing, writing..nearly finished a novel too, not to mention entire video game levels polished and playable. I could not wait to get out of bed to throw myself into this amazing whirlwind.
Then...suddenly darkness. Almost from one day to another. Nothing but cold ashes.
I still try from time to time but now the act of creation feels so pointless and forced. As years ruthlessly tick by, soon enough, I will have to accept that my most cherished characteristic is dead, never to return.
It seems that you and I are not so different; we both feel an intense sense of loss. Loss of self.
I have no wisdom for you friend, not even a whisper of hope. All that I can tell you is that someone, somewhere understands you and knows your pain.
With sincerity I wish that I could offer words of comfort and respite, alas I cannot.
Thank you for your honesty and effort.
Be well.
@@larissazahner7883 same it hit me right there
You sound like a great philosopher to me
Love you too Adam. You're awesome.
4 minutes ago and I just woke up? What a way to start the morning!
Thanks for your honesty, Adam. I've always leaned towards your side of the argument, we should be finding our philosophy (style) asap so we can live the best life and have work come to us because we're known for that particular thing. Taking the basic individual parts of ourselves for granted - Is exactly what we need to focus on to express ourselves authentically. Love this topic.
I just discovered your channel like 25 minutes ago. The first video that i watched in you channel was "Procrastination is not related to your laziness."
I just started drawing 2 days ago.
In all honesty I already bought the materials i need to start drawing like 6 months ago. I started drawing for about 2 days then stopped, I always say to myself that it's too hard. Well because of you I wanted to start drawing again. You're an inspiration. Thanks!
I havent been following you that long but.....i cannot wait for you to post another video, this is a highlight of my day. Because of you I have been moving forward with my own art. This hasn't happened in years. You saved me from utter destruction with myself and my art. Thank you.
Every time I start to struggle with my resolve or fail to see the artistic side of me,,, a video of yours always pops up into my recommended. Reading comments of people who are/ have gone through the same thing just shows how similar we all are. Thank you. I don't have a very long and meaningful thing to say besides Thank you. You have helped me and others in ways you may not even fathom, so just,,,, thank you.
Discovered your channel recently and I really appreciate your perspective
If I could, I would hug you right now. Thank you once again. I wish you all the best :)
Your videos are so valuable to me Adam, there's nothing better to listen to for me while painting. I want you to know that after hearing your quit smoking story I quit myself and am now over a month smoke free. Thank you.
After thinking abou this topic I realized that, to me, style is taste. Or at least is closely related too. My style of clothing is what I like to see and (would) like to dress. My style of music is music that I enjoy listening. So my style of art is drawing things as if the intended audience is comprised of lots of me. Things drawn in a way that I'd enjoy to see.
I don't know if it's the same for everyone, but for me it matches what Adam said. I need to know exactly what I like. I need to know what my tastes are. I need to know myself. For it was when I learned who am I that I discovered what I like, and thus, what my style is.
You know, Adam, this talk really got me without me expecting it!
I have never cared for style, I only went with it as you said. E.g. as a hobbyist teen I always "stole" stuff from mangaka I liked, the eyes here, the body shapes from there, and so on.
But only recently I have gotten to a point where I don't know what to do. Since I decided two years ago that I want to become a professional artist, I don't know which way to go.
I love grotesque stuff, survival horror or soulsborne concept art and I'd really love to paint these great gothic buildings for such dark games. Heck, I found out a few months ago that I love drawing achitecture which I had never believed in before!
On the other hand my mind and heart always crawl back to my Nintendo, anime and japan loving self as if they want to tell me: "You know you are still a child at heart. You are the most happy when you do things you always loved but somehow surpressed the past ten years. You could not live without Nintendogames and deep inside you you know that you belong to Japan, heck, you even did japanese studies for that! Go for your dream and fulfill it with the triforce inside you!"
I am so torn. xD
When I am lost, I always listen to your videos to stop feeling alone and to remember myself that all this back&forth are part of the process. Thanks for your videos
awesome content this is art therapy for me thank you Adam
Philosophy. Wow. That’s a perspective. Style has always haunted me all this time. Especially when i derailed from art for 6 years. Coming back expecting to just pick up where I left off was a dream. The muscle memory and the mentality was totally different already. But this. Style became a thing. But this makes total sense. Thank you for this Adam...Philosophy...Wow...I’m going to share this on my introspection blog soon...
Man no matter what you have a way of sounding like my grandfather who always believed in me as an artist and it always brings me to tears in a good way
I’m glad I discovered your channel a couple weeks ago. It’s crazy how easy it is to calm down and draw, just listening to these videos. They’re very therapeutic and centering, in some strange way.
You’ve tackled this perfectly. I went to , in my opinion, the top Art H.S. of NY and despite that I felt no different from anyone else . In fact , I felt like my talent wasn’t cared for even in the eyes of my own surroundings. Time and time again you remind me why what i do matters and with this video it blatantly tells me that I’m different . Thank you
You know Adam, it was actually you who inspired my desire to really determine what my inspirations are and who I want to be as an artist. I’ve been a bit of a style chameleon for the past few years but there’s been one artist in my life who’s work I have never stopped admiring nor wanting to be like: Tony DiTerlizzi. If you haven’t seen his work or heard of him, please take a few minutes to do so.
A few months ago I came across your book review on Brian Froud’s Faeries and realized I had been a small child when I first saw this book in a public library. Within about 5 hours of watching your video I had purchased an old library copy off of eBay and have been studying his work ever since. I determined that I love Brian Froud’s work, the work of Tony DiTerlizzi, but I also really love director Miyazaki’s work. So I’m now trying to mishmash anime and spider wick chronicles together, essentially.
Anyways, aptly timed video from you since this past week I have been grinding out figuring what my style is and I’m really, really enjoying the journey of discovering what exactly that is. Thank you, Adam!
Omg, thank you so much! I needed this so much! You always talk about what I need in the exact moment! Take care, hugs. I cant express my gratitude enough :>
Somehow, every week you manage to make a video on the subject I'm struggling with at the moment. It feels like you are taking the algorithm one step farther. "What do I need to know, hear, learn, understand this week?" And that's exactly what I get when I open TH-cam.
Your content is the only thing that stands out from all the noise. True honest insight. Not only the message,but more important than that , how you share it. Every video is an extension of your art. The simplicity, the tone, the mood, the music. And your art itself is an extension of who you are as a person. You manage to stick to your vision, your own philosophy as you mention, instead of chasing a formula based on numbers in the pursue of "success".
So lucky to have you influence my journey. Hopefully some day I can "pay you back".
Great video as always Adam. Defining my style has been the hardest thing to focus on personally over the years. My most recent art I finished I really tried hard to just shut out all the outside influences (other artists and money) and tried to be genuine to my own feelings and desires. I think it is one of my stronger pieces and it might not sell like crazy but I'm happier for making it. It helped me find my passion again in creating for myself and not people pleasing. Being true to yourself is a long term investment.
I only recently came across your channel and I truly appreciate your calm and comforting videos. It is easy to feel lost, uncertain and insecure about art. Thanks for the help to reflect on the purpose of- and remember the 'spark' for- creating art.
Hi Adam, I just found your channel and listened to what you had to say. I’m short for words to express the inspiration and determination you put out to lift my spirit and continue with my journey. I still need to watch your other videos which look interesting. I love the way you describe style and I have to agree with you. It is not easy to realize what exactly one is missing until someone else might point it out, and this time sir, it is you who spoke loud and clear about style! Wow! Thanks so much! This video came into my life at the right time and I have to appreciate the time, the effort and the commitment to your people to guide them directly into the right path. I’m inspired now and it is thanks to you. I’m subscribing to your channel and I have lots of videos to watch! Many blessings and much success in everything you do. Most of all, please be safe.
thank you for such a lovely video
what a strange coincidence that, not even an hour ago, I was lamenting how lost I felt, how I didn't know how to define myself
I think I have an idea what direction to go in now
this was so inspiring.. u have no idea how much u helped my mental health!! I've been so down about art in general, i think u lifted me back up!!!
I think a style develops by itself if you don't rely too much on artistic role models as you say. I know for myself that I've got a kind of style (not always loved by myself) that at least ist recognizable. I find it much harder to develop a kind of narrative with my art, a structure where you can see my train of thoughts, my interests. Artist that manage it e.g. Loish or Bastien Lecouffe Deharme are not just recognizable by style but at the conglomeration of style and narrative.
Btw subscribed ;)
This is perfect timing, I'm working on the biggest project I have ever tried (a five chapter comic over the course of one month XD) and am really doubting myself and my drawings to be able to do this in a way where I can reach the people I want to. Your video gave me some great insights on how to move forward without being consumed by the ever present stream of "not good enough" going through my brain :P
When he started talking about his daughter man I Lost It😭. So beautiful, great advice thanks dude!!
Hey, Adam. Just wanted to comment here to let you know that your life experiences and stories have helped me get through a lot of self doubt and negativity regarding my art and me as a person. Thank you for creating videos and thank you for telling us your story. As always, you're amazing ❤
Ahhh, I LOOOVE how you work on the same drawing through different videos. It makes the focus not on the finished art product, but rather, the process itself, which is often underappreciated and overlooked in a sense.
is crazy how there is always a video of you discussing the issue that im lately wondering about, you are awezome ily tysm
Thank you Again Adam, your advise comes just right on the moment i needed it. been feeling very low almost wanting to quit art overall, because i can clearly see the stuff i draw is not really popular.. or nobody really seems to give a shit about it, i love what you do please keep doing these videos!
I really liked what you said about the old and tattered, it is those things that incorporate into my building and landscaping etc, it makes the place feel timeless and lived in.
Thank you for your talks 💎
This is best uplifting material. Thank you very much!
Your videos are invaluable and wonderful. More people need to hear them and they always come out when I seem to need them them most.
Thank you for helping us navigate the often confusing world within ourselves.
I remember watching a TED talk (in french) this weekend kinda linked to that topic, here's the link if you want to listen to it: th-cam.com/video/Y7Xbsa7ss4I/w-d-xo.html
The last exercice the speaker ask us to do is to remember our childhood hero and his/her first quality we associate with them. It's more than often a quality or a value that is deeply rooted into you. It made me think about my art heroes and what drives me to create when I was a kid. I went deep inside me, and looked at these little pieces of me. I understood what I did for myself, what I did to please other and that make me feels fake and I want not enjoying creating anymore.
Lemme be clear, I'm a freelancer artist for 7 years now, work is something and personal art is another thing. The point is, I was unable to create for myself and it made my love for art barren. I was creating for work only, and I'm able to switch easily between art styles because I kinda erase my own philosophy. For the past 3 years, I was on a journey to fall in love with art again and I found out that the best way to find yourself is like Adam suggest us, look at your younger self, your taste, your goal, your love.
I want to be known as a creature designer because I have a blast doing creatures, thinking about how they eat, walk, reproduce. Paint their environments, create ecosystem! And for now on, regarding my personal work, I'll work in that way and eventually, as I grow on that path, I'll attract projects that suit my philosophy!
Love guys!
I look forward to these videos. Every one that I've watched, I feel like a piece of myself falls into place and is validated. I feel like the doubts about myself as an artist are slowly resolved and I can move forward. In the 2 months that I've been following your channel, I've felt myself grow so much, and I want to thank you for sharing your experiences. 💛
This talk was light a light switch in my brain. Thank you.
Thank You for sharing this... I spent 2 whole years stagnating and basically stopped creating art for myself. I love artistic expression but sharing my art with others had always made me feel vulnerable and over time I realized how much what you create actually says about you. I'm not worried about finding a style or an artistic voice because I know who I am deep down and what kinds of things I'm easily drawn to. I used to experiment with all kinds of approaches a lot too! It's just that nowadays I get kind of embarrassed whenever someone sees my drawings. It feels like sharing a very intimate part of myself with people and I'm sensitive to the judgment. I love getting feedback though and I appreciate people helping me to improve but exposing yourself to larger audiences often comes with many different groups of people, not only artists. Sorry if it's not entirely on-topic but when you mentioned discovering yourself, what you like, and experimenting with it, it really hit home for me. I used to be so in touch with myself and I really miss those times.
This is by far the best video on this topic. It broke it down in such an understandable way, it's honestly the first one that has made sense to me. Thank you Adam, for being you. Thank you for bringing me peace of mind as always.
Thank you so much, Adam. I've been trying to find my style and improve and been running away from the things I like to draw: horror and dark castles. I've been told to draw cuter things like anime and pictures of people in bright settings. I don't like drawing those things, and because no one told me the dark things I like to draw are great, I never committed to it. I guess I needed permission to be myself. It's a challenge to be authentic every day. Thank you again, I love your videos.
You must be psychic because your messages always match what I am going through. Thank you. The message is wonderful.
I LOVE YOUR VOICEEEEEE
Hi adam, i always listen to your videos while drawing and sometimes when i need to remember some things to myself through the life stories you tell. Im really grateful because you touch several points of insecurity i personaly feel as a begginer artist. Thanks for doing this :)
I was feeling very down about art again and your videos (to me its more of, a podcast or something good to listen to) are helping me cope with my struggles.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and helping other artists this way. The music was calming already and your words struck to me quite a lot. In a good way, of course.
Happy painting, everyone
Always happy to see a new upload pop up :)
Thank you, as always. Any video of yours moves me and gives me the strength to either go on or start creating art. I'm a fashion designer and I feel like your words apply so well to my approach to how I make clothes. Especially after 1 month of being forced to stay home, I gained some creativity back and I'm trying to let go of negative thoughts that might originate from what I do. I compare myself to others too much, and it's not good.
We all do - just know that it’s an occupational hazard of being a highly critical self-motivated professional, not a sign of incompetence
i feel like every time i watch i gain so much more valuable knowledge than i expected to do thank you so much
Wow, it almost seems like Adam knows what is passing through our minds at this very moment, and hand-chooses the right topic just for us.
Thank you I enjoy watching your videos they have often given me peace and a better understanding of my self. There have been times that I've been really harsh with my critique of myself. Of how I do things and what the end result is, usually in the pursuit of an art style. I like the mindset of what is my art philosophy than style it makes me feel less trapped and more excited for what I want to convey.
Every single monday I'm looking forward to listening to your new video and being inspired. Thanks Adam
Turns out I can’t find my art style/philosophy because I REALLY don’t know myself. When you said to look inward and think about who I am as a person, I truly couldn’t think of anything. This is a tough cookie to crack, because like you said, it also applies to music. And I am an independent music artist as well…😅
Man, you are such an amazing person and artist. Thanks for these thoughts!
Hi Adam! I'm a junior illustration student and I have a project to interview one of my favorite artist and was wondering if you were available for a few questions, ten or so?! Been subbed to you for a while, the faries video you made opened my eyes to what look/genre I wanted to pursue. Sorry if youtube comments are a bad place to ask. I tired Instagram aswell.
this video is stunning and inspiring, as always. Your videos always calm me down and help me focus and believe in my own art!
Adam you are Awesome, Thanks for Sharing.
Thank you so much for your advice. It really helped me on my journey on becoming a better artist. I struggled a lot recently thinking about what kind of artist I want to become and if it's even the right choice at all. Well, your video inspired me a lot - seeing my style as a philosophy and the progress of finding myself. Really glad I stumbled upon your channel!
Lovely advice Adam. Thank you so much
This man is talking to my soul
I just discovered your channel and all the advice you've provided has been so incredibly helpful and comforting for me.
I really like listenning to your videos while i'm working. it helps me to keep going and draw more.
i look up to you my friend. Thank you for another beautiful episode!
I don't know how you are doing it... but you talk about some things that may be quite obvious or about things wchih I already heard at Academy and you make them so easy to understand. I have a feeling that when I am listenig to you I start to understad all of these 'obvious' things for the first time. You realy make learnig easy
The way an artist approaches their work can vary from time to time. Sometimes I see a very clear image in my mind and I feel extremely compelled to 'get it out' and down on paper. Other times I do studies, just draw and interpret what I see or doodle whatever comes to mind. Or I might need to illustrate a specific idea or concept and approach it with a design focus. (For example a character design or storyboard for animation).
Thank you for this :)
YAY A NEW VIDEO FROM OUR ART DAD
my mother describe me as weird... It did hurt on the time.... now I like it, if even my mother thinks i am weird, i must be very weird hahaha and I was thinking about the things I like as you said, things I like since I understand myself as a person, and I realize I like very specific things and I totallly could and want to put these things in my art, because they are pretty cool
Truly amazing messages in your videos. Thank you. Your content is very precious to me.
Adam are secretly my FBI guy? 😂 Lately I’ve been feeling like my art lacks... soul? If that makes any sense. I enjoy how I draw, so it’s not completely technical but I feel like I still need to push it from an emotional stand point. So I’m taking this week to go back to stuff that I loved as a kid, stuff that made me want to become an artist when I grew up and just make notes on why it made me love art and storytelling. It’s definitely gonna be fun!
Unlimited possibilities is the weakness of creativity. When you are limited you are able to be creative in ways you wouldn't have voluntarily done so.
Absolutely so
For a few months, I've been floored wondering why I couldn't come up with cool shots like in other amazing animation reels. Now, I am starting to remember some stupid fun ideas I want to try.
i really appreciated your videos,you really explained it in deph
Your videos make me feel some type of way
I literally cried a bit cuz I got so focused on others that I lost me. Thank you.
"Know thyself... I don't mean this in the biblical sense" Hahaha! I love the subtle Canadian humor.
the best advice!
thanks Adam, my father figure of art, i started doing art without even having an artistic voice
Your videos feel like an emotional shoulder rub after a long day
great way to start the day
Thank you Adam, it seems artists are the wise men of this area.
Amazing ❤️
blazing hot, had to rewatch 4 times to cool down
Woow ... I just found the best channel on youtube , Thank you so much! Your art also reminds me a lot of Guillermo Del Toro's characters ...." Monsters Are Living, Breathing Metaphors"
commissioning to these are the best.
This is off topic, but would you ever consider doing a video where you talk about the 'grind' of art? As in just how much work is required to make it into the professional industry. Sort of like 'FZD's Design Cinema Podcast - Learning On Your Own'.
I understand your channel and content is about artists taking it easy on themselves, but it would be interesting to hear your thoughts on the insane work ethic it takes to become a skilful artist.
Cheers.
Slight off topic - gotta still finish the vid. So far awesome and thank you Adam
BUT
OH man I was wondering who you were painting AND MAN IT WAS OUR OLD FAVORITE BABA JAGA :3 Couldn't be more happier or attached to the painting of yours than with this one. Big thumbs up ;)
"Ah look at that nice old lady, surely she doesn't devour her daughter's souls for immortality."