Stop trying to FIND an art style

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses the concept of finding one's unique art style, arguing that it's not just about standing out but also about personal growth and exploration. They emphasize that everyone already has a style influenced by their tastes, culture, and experiences. The speaker advises against fixating on being original for its own sake, suggesting instead that artists should focus on growing their style through experimentation, studying fundamentals, and embracing change. They also touch on how style can impact one's career and personal brand, ultimately advocating for a mature approach to artistic development.

Takeaways

• 🎨 The idea of actively seeking an original art style can be problematic and may lead to creative stagnation.
• 🌟 Having a unique art style is often associated with standing out and being recognizable, but it can also be limiting.
• 🔍 The speaker's personal experience suggests that an art style was not as emphasized in the past as it is now, possibly due to social media's influence.
• 👩‍🎨 Style is described as a combination of voice, taste, and execution, which are influenced by personal preferences and experiences.
• 📚 The concept of style is not just about solving drawing problems but also about personal expression and bias.
• 👶 Encouragement to embrace the creativity of children, who are naturally original and unique, as a way to develop an art style.
• 🚀 The speaker advises against trying to be 'original' for the sake of it, suggesting that true originality comes from a mix of influences and breaking rules.
• 🔑 Recognizability through an art style can be beneficial for business, but it's not the only factor that attracts an audience or clients.
• 🛠️ To improve one's art style, the script recommends studying fundamentals, experimenting, and drawing outside of one's comfort zone.
• 🌱 The growth of an art style is likened to personal growth, requiring challenges, risks, and experiences to mature.
• 🏆 Success in art is not solely attributed to having a style, but also to the ability to evolve, experiment, and reflect personal identity in one's work.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video by Cynical Pantao?

The main topic discussed in the video is the concept of finding and developing one's own original art style, and the potential issues associated with the pursuit of uniqueness in art.

Why do younger artists often seek to have their own original art style?

Younger artists often seek to have their own original art style to stand out, be recognizable, avoid being accused of copying, secure work, and establish a business plan such as branding or merchandising.

What was the viewpoint on having an art style in the mid-2000s compared to now?

In the mid-2000s, having an art style was not as emphasized and was sometimes associated with negative aspects like being stuck in bad drawing habits or comfort zones. Nowadays, with the influence of social media, having a unique art style has become more mainstream and desirable.

How does Cynical Pantao define 'style' in the context of art?

Cynical Pantao defines 'style' as a combination of three elements: voice, which is the unique way an artist expresses themselves; tastes, which are the preferences and biases in what the artist values; and execution, which is how the artist decides to approach their work.

What are some common misconceptions about having an art style according to the video?

Some common misconceptions include the belief that having an art style will automatically lead to success, that being original is always positive, and that an art style should remain static and not evolve.

What does Cynical Pantao suggest as an alternative to actively seeking an art style?

Cynical Pantao suggests focusing on growing one's style naturally through experimentation, stepping out of comfort zones, studying fundamentals, and learning from a variety of influences.

Why might having a recognizable art style not always be beneficial?

Having a recognizable art style can be beneficial for branding and standing out, but it can also be detrimental if the style is recognized for negative reasons, such as poor anatomy or being obnoxious.

What is the role of a 'style guide' in animation production?

A 'style guide' in animation production provides specific instructions on how to draw certain characters and elements in a way that matches the overall style of the production, ensuring consistency across different artists' work.

How can an artist avoid being a mere copy of someone else?

An artist can avoid being a mere copy by incorporating elements from various influences, adding their own unique interpretations, and challenging themselves to grow and evolve their style over time.

What is the relationship between an artist's personal identity and their art style?

An artist's personal identity, including their tastes, preferences, and experiences, greatly influences their art style. By exploring and expressing their identity through their work, an artist can develop a style that is uniquely their own.

How does Cynical Pantao view the idea of being 'original' in art?

Cynical Pantao argues that no one is truly original, as all artists draw inspiration from others. Instead of striving for originality, artists should focus on developing a style that reflects their own experiences and decisions.