Common Challenges in Learning to Draw

Often, we're our own worst critic. That's especially true when it comes to learning new skills like drawing.

We might have an image in mind of what our art should look like and get frustrated when reality doesn't match up.

This psychological barrier is common among beginners and can lead to self-doubt, discouragement, and ultimately giving up on becoming an artist

However, every artist started somewhere. No one becomes a master overnight! It takes time, patience, and a lot of practice to improve your drawing skills.

Instead of comparing ourselves with others or striving for perfection from the get-go, we should focus on enjoying the process and celebrating small victories along the way.

How Personal Perception Affects Your Drawing Abilities

Believe it or not, how you perceive objects around you significantly impacts your ability to draw them accurately.

We often draw what we think something looks like instead of what it actually looks like.

For instance, if you were asked to draw a chair without looking at one directly, chances are you'll end up sketching a generic chair from memory rather than capturing its unique attributes.

This disconnect between perception and reality is something every aspiring artist grapples with.

To overcome this hurdle, try to train your eye to see objects as they are. Break down complex shapes into simpler ones, observe the play of light and shadows, and never stop practicing!

Artist That Started Late

Many people know about Vincent van Gogh.

Many people are familiar with the iconic works of Vincent van Gogh, the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who gave us masterpieces like "Starry Night" and "The Café Terrace at Night."

However, few are aware that Van Gogh started his artistic journey relatively late in life.

Based on Wikipedia, he began painting seriously in his late twenties and only became prolific in the last decade of his life.

This is a testament to the idea that it's never too late to start, and one shouldn't be disheartened by a perceived "late" beginning.

Similarly, Grandma Moses, whose real name was Anna Mary Robertson Moses, took up painting seriously only in her late seventies.

She became a renowned folk artist and painted up until her death at age 101. Her story illustrates the timeless potential of creativity, no matter the age.

Bridging the Skill Gap: Practical Steps

Bridging the skill gap may seem overwhelming at first glance. However, there are practical steps one can take on this journey:

1. Practice regularly. In artistry as in most things life, consistency is key.
2. Study from experienced artist. There's plenty we can learn from those who've walked before us.
3. Take classes, workshops or online course. A structured environment provides guidance and feedback which are invaluable for growth. There are many free website to learn art like Artwork Path, Draw a Box, etc.
4. Be patient with yourself. Remember Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is an artistic skillset.

One of the pitfalls that budding artists often fall into is the rush to create a "perfect" piece.

Instead, it's essential to embrace the journey. Art, like life, is about exploration, experimentation, and evolution.

Every line you draw, every shade you experiment with, brings you closer to understanding your style, refining your skills, and expressing your vision.

The Power of Mindset in Artistic Development

A fixed mindset, where one believes that abilities are static, can stifle growth.

On the other hand, adopting a growth mindset, where one believes that abilities can be developed with effort, can foster a love for learning and resilience in the face of challenges.

When it comes to art, this translates to persevering in the face of mistakes, learning from them, and seeing them as opportunities for growth rather than as indicators of failure.

Drawing is a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. So grab your sketchbook, let's get drawing!