Archived Articles
FAQs - Frequently Asked Art Questions
Artists never fail to fascinate other mere mortals. However, few realize
that artists can be born but not necessarily made!
All it takes is technique, which can be taught. Then a thinking brain
completes the art product. A brilliant artist once remarked: So-and-so
is so skilled at painting and drawing; he needs to have his hands cut
off so he can USE his brain.
Q: But I can’t even draw a straight line, how can I be an artist?
A: Ever tried stick and stones? THINK of the head as a round stone propped up by sticks. Those kiddies' drawings make sense. Since sticks represent the bones in their gesture pose, muscles should fill them in. Then dress the figures up. Try seating them, let them run, kneel, bow, lie down, dance like a ballerina. All this from sticks and stones.
Q : How do I start drawing and / or painting?
A: Start right. Know the basics. Be familiar with art materials and respect them by learning HOW to use them. Get some good books, or enroll for a workshop. At least you will learn that plywood is not a good “support” to replace canvas, but any hardwood panel will do.
Q: There are so many colors available, which can be confusing. What should I get?
A: Learn the color wheel. Start only with the primaries—red, yellow blue, plus have white handy. Mixing these in varying quantity can produce any color.
More Articles from the Artist: (in Microsoft Word)