As a self-taught artist, I know the many pitfalls and perils of navigating the wondrous and many layered art world while trying to find your bearing. In this episode, I share my artist’s journey, including an over decade-long break from art because I thought I wasn’t good enough.
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The one thing I have consistently heard from people around me is “I can’t draw or paint”. Well, as someone who couldn’t draw a stick figure to save their life, I know a thing or two about that particular brain gremlin and how to overcome it.
In this episode, I share:
- The hurdles I had to overcome on my artist’s journey
- Two of the biggest mistakes I made on my artist’s journey and how you can avoid them
- How I found my inner artist
- Some tips for people who are relatively new to the artist’s journey
YouTube videos that helped me start on my artist’s journey
As I promised on the podcast, here are a few of the YouTube videos that helped me get back to art after a gap of over a decade.
I remember, at the time, I didn’t have any of the supplies discussed here. I started with a few jars of craft paint, a set of watercolor pencils that I carried around with me since I was a child, and a waterproof black pen.
I spent a lot of time devouring videos and looking at reviews of art supplies to try and figure out what all these supplies do and what I really needed to get creating.
The answer is, not much! And I’ll be talking more about supplies on a future podcast episode, so make sure to subscribe to the podcast {subscription links are at the end of the post}!
More inspiration – from my YouTube Channel!
Want more YouTube inspiration?
Here are some art tutorials from my YouTube channel. Enjoy!
The evolution of my art
And a small look at the evolution of my style – from some of my earliest attempts to more recent paintings. (Click on the images for a larger view)
Free gift: Art Journaling 101 ebook
And if you want some guidance to get started, download my Art Journaling 101 ebook – for free!
Art Journaling 101, is designed especially with the beginner in mind. This gorgeous, 40 page + eBook is geared towards those who have or prefer to work with limited supplies – or are suffering from art supply overwhelm and want to simplify their stash, if only for a while!
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Let’s talk!
Share your insights, a-has, fears or questions with me in the comments. I may just address some of them in a future podcast episode!
This was really interesting. Its hard to imagine there ever was a time when you weren’t artistic. I’m glad you did get back to it after those ten years.
Also, your takeaways hold true for almost all creative fields.
A lot of the things that hold true for art hold true for any creative practice I think. And yes, when I look back, even I’m amazed sometimes. I really could barely draw a stick figure – so every time I manage to draw something I feel super proud of myself 😉
I’m a fan, no doubt about that! Even when I got back to painting as a hobby, it was your page I reached out to. I scoured through all your work to understand patterns, layers, colors and learnt so much. I’m bookmarking this page for future reference.
So glad you were able to find inspiration by looking at my work! I loved the piece you panted around the start of the lockdown I think? That’s when you shared it, at least! 🙂
Always been a fan of your style of adding layers and textures and giving each painting a new meaning. Also your voice is so soothing 😊 I struggle with art materials too, so I just do with whatever I have. Else I would never get started.
Thank you so much, Raj! It can be such a struggle to not have access to art supplies! I thought things would be a lot better in Australia though! Btw, do you know of Jane Davenport? She’s in Australia and stocks a lot of art supplies + has a line of her own art materials too.
I just can’t believe that you couldn’t draw a stick figure! Your art is so beautiful!
haha! It’s true though! And thank you! <3
You’re such an inspiration, Shinjini. Loved listening to your artist’s journey. Congratulations on getting the Podcast going. Keep on keeping on!
Thank you so much for your support, Corinne! xx
Loved this, Shinjini! Your voice is so soothing and this whole post is very informative. I will be coming back for more inspiration. ❤️
Thank you so much, Vinitha! Glad you found the post useful too! xx
dabbling in early 20’s and returning to embrace the artist journey in my 30’s I relate to so much you share.It is so amazing that you found ways to create with the limited art resources available in India…especially at that time.Despite the hurdle you are created so magically.
Comparing art…..my mistake too.
So empowering to hear your words and your journey.Indeed,there are some really warm non judging spaces in the creative community of FB groups.Grateful for that experience too.
Thank you for the resources you share here.
I recommend this episode to ever creative newbie!
You’re very welcome! And thank you! xx
so interesting to hear your side of the story.it takes me on a journey within as i remember my re embracing art in my 30’s around the same time.I love your intuitive expression.
So many artists and creators have similar stories, I’ve noticed. Of giving up and then re-embracing their artistic expression.