The Responsibility of an Artist
Questions from Newton Ochieng Olonde, Drawing Academy Art Competition winner
Back at home (Kenya) the Art market is very small. The majority of clients say “Art is very expensive”. The few “good” clients like abstract art, which is not really my thing.
Lately, I have ventured in book illustrations using computer and drawing tablet. Do you have any useful hints?
I aspire to be my best in it.
Dear Newton Ochieng Olonde,
Many thanks for submitting your art for critique.
Your works are very good; you definitely have skills and talent.
There are a few things, however, that you have to consider as well.
I have a feeling that you’re basing your drawings on photos.
One of the reasons I awarded you with the Drawing Academy course is to give you a chance to learn traditional drawing techniques, so you could draw from life, nature, memory, and imagination.
Drawing from photos makes you just a “copying machine.” If your aspiration is to become a professional fine artist, you’ll need another set of skills.
I really like that your have your own vision and mission. If you haven’t put them in writing yet, I would recommend that you do so.
I admire the support you give to local people whose authentic way of life needs to be respected and protected. I also like your passion for nature.
As a fine artist, you have a responsibility to make the world a better place through your art, to draw attention to people and animals that need help and protection.
Thank you for your question about drawing tablets. Tablets are just a tool. Your skills and intentions will make art, not a device. It doesn’t matter what art materials you use; what matters is what you stand for as an artist. I’m sure you will find ways to perfect your tool use.
Even if you had just a single graphite pencil, you would be able to go through the complete Drawing Academy course.
I’m here to help if you need anything.
To your creative success,
Vladimir
P.S. In regard to abstract art, you may find this video interesting:
//drawingacademy.com/contemporary-art-bubble
- Receive 15 new videos monthly (45 in total)
- Incredible discount – $4,164
- Bonuses - Fine Art eBooks and Videos
- Drawing Academy Diploma of Excellence after course completion in 3 months
- Personal coaching by Drawing Academy Tutors
- Lifetime membership. Free after the 3rd month
- Immediate access to all 45 video lessons
- Incredible discount – $4,198
- Bonuses - Fine Art eBooks and Videos
- Drawing Academy Diploma of Excellence after course completion in 3 months
- Personal coaching by Drawing Academy Tutors
- Lifetime membership. No more payments
Morally, helpfully and with great empathy you have explained the reason for Newton being one of the winners in your art contest. In most cases, I believe that a work of art must stand on it’s own without explanation. This is not a rule that cannot be bent or even broken if the circumstance warrant it. And in this case I am sure you did the right thing for this person’s career and soul by declaring him one of the winners. I wish that you would have made this known when you revealed the winners. I am all for kindness and helping each other. It’s much more important than any “art rules”. Good job.