E24: Do You Even WANT An Art Style???
This is The Twenty Fourth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie.
Perhaps a redundant question.... but is it? Lets dig in and unpack this question. I think there is a lot of important insight you might not have considered about how style affects an artistic career and an artist's development!
Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! (These are not bad at summing it all up... but do sound a bit strange and not in my voice)
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In this Episode we explore the complex question of whether artists should strive for a unique art style, especially considering the career implications in the art world. This topic isn't merely about creative freedom; it's also about how having a distinct style can impact business opportunities and job prospects in the industry.
The art world often leans towards a homogenous style, a trend visible since the 1950s when most illustrations served commercial needs uniformly. This pattern continues in various forms even now. While a unique style sets artists apart, it also presents challenges in meeting the industry's standard expectations. The real dilemma lies in choosing between blending in or standing out. Reflecting on the past, many artists in the 1920s -1950s, despite their technical prowess, are forgotten today because their work was indistinguishable within the era's commercial style. This raises a critical question: is it better to have a unique style or to fit into the prevailing trends of the industry?
Developing a distinct style is a journey that takes significant time and involves exploring various mediums, techniques, and influences. This process of exploration and self-discovery is rewarding, yet it might not always synchronize with commercial success or consistent job opportunities. It took me about seven to eight years of serious dedication to art before landing my first significant job in the comic book industry, which forced me to crystallize my style. The challenge here is immense - as you experiment and try to express something new, there are many failures and moments of doubt. It's a path filled with trial and error until you find that balance where your style not only represents you but also functions effectively in your chosen medium.
Another aspect to consider is the commercialization of one’s style. Making a unique style commercially viable is not straightforward. It involves convincing clients and art directors to buy into your vision, which can be a significant hurdle. People in business, linked to a hierarchy, typically seek reliability and prefer styles that are successful and widely accepted. This tendency leads to a homogenization of styles in art. For example, in my own experience, I faced numerous challenges in this aspect. There were instances where I was close to significant projects with big publishers, but things fell apart because my style didn't align with what they were seeking. It's a tightrope walk between adhering to your unique style and adapting to the demands of the job market.
In conclusion, not everyone will appreciate a unique style. The more distinct and pronounced your style, the more polarizing it can be. This means potentially limiting your audience but also finding a more dedicated and appreciative fan base. It's crucial to understand that while a unique style might limit some opportunities, it also opens doors to more personalized and fulfilling artistic endeavours. The key lies in balancing your personal artistic goals with the practicalities of the art industry. It's about aligning your style with your career aspirations and finding that sweet spot where both can coexist and thrive.
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This Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey.
We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice.
Learn more about Tim Mcburnie:
Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com
Check out this podcast with video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Tim-Mcburnie
Spotify Link: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411
www.thedrawingcodex.com/podcasts/the-visual-scholar
Check out The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex
Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com
www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie
www.instagram.com/timmcburnie
twitter.com/timmcburnie
