Art Supplies

Elevate Your Art: Tips for Beginners

1 August 2023
Article by Tiphanie Henry | 30 MIN READ

Your guide to developing your artistic practice.

Whether a growing hobby or a burgeoning career, starting out on your artistic journey can be both exciting and daunting.

To help you navigate this vast and sometimes overwhelming world, we’ve prepared a comprehensive beginner’s guide.

As you venture into the various tools, techniques, and mediums, remember that the key to unlocking your creative potential lies in finding what suits you and brings genuine joy.

So as you read on, embrace the learning process, experiment without self-judgement, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes!

Photo © Jonathan Borba, 2021

Understanding the basics

Before you start exploring the myriad art tools and supplies available to you, first familiarise yourself with the fundamental principles of art. Remember every artist starts somewhere, and while it may be tempting to jump straight into creating, dedicating time to understanding the foundations of art will pay off in the long run.

Colour theory, composition, and perspective are just a few of the many concepts that will serve as the building blocks for your development.

Think of learning these elements as if you were learning a new language. At first it may seem challenging to grasp the various concepts and techniques, but with time and practice, they will become second nature. As you gradually build your knowledge and skills, you will find that your artistic expressions become richer, more nuanced, and ultimately, more satisfying.

To help with this, take the time to observe and analyse the works of other artists, both past and present. By understanding how others have utilised colour, composition, and perspective, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of how these principles can be applied to your own work.

Regardless of your experience level, consider also seeking out resources that cater to beginners, such as online tutorials, courses, books, or workshops. These resources can help break down complex and varied concepts into easily digestible pieces, making the learning process more enjoyable and approachable.

You can find out more about these core principles and how they have been used by contemporary artists in our free online course, Making Sense of Contemporary Art.

Developing Your Artistic Style

Finding your artistic style is an ongoing process that requires patience, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks. Every artist’s journey is different, and the most important thing is to enjoy the process of exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery.

The process of developing your artistic style is deeply personal, and is bound to evolve over time as you grow and learn. Try to embrace this fluidity, allowing yourself the freedom to explore new ideas and techniques without feeling confined to a particular style or genre.

Pay attention to the artists, themes, and subjects that inspire you, and consider how these influences can be incorporated into your own work in a way that feels authentic and unique. The most memorable artists don’t all have the best technical ability, but they do know how to articulate their ideas and emotions in a way that feels genuine to themselves and others.

You also don’t have to feel the pressure to completely reinvent the wheel. Artists across time have created similarly inspired works, what we now describe as “movements”. Whilst you may feel the pressure to be different, being true to yourself will get you there in an enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable way.

One helpful strategy is to maintain an art journal or sketchbook where you can record your ideas, inspirations, and experiments. This can serve as a visual diary of your artistic journey, allowing you to reflect on your progress and identify patterns or recurring elements that could be the beginnings of your distinct style.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to share your work with others, whether that’s through social media, art classes, or local exhibitions. Whilst this may seem daunting, the feedback and insights you receive from fellow artists and art lovers can be invaluable in helping you refine your style and gain confidence in your artistic voice.

Study of Carlos Acosta, 2020 · Curtis Holder · Coloured Pencil on Paper · 59h x 42w (cm) · London, UK · © Curtis Holder

Yellow & Purple, 2021・© Zoya Smirnova

Exploring Different Media

Art comes in many forms, from traditional techniques like painting and drawing, to modern methods like photography, digital art and mixed media. In this section, we’ll provide an overview of the most popular and accessible art media, so you start your exploration of what works best for you.

As you explore the many art forms available, keep an open mind and be willing to experiment. This willingness to venture into the unknown is a critical part of the creative process, allowing you to break free from preconceived notions and discover new ways of expressing yourself. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to limit yourself to just one medium; many artists work with multiple media to create truly unique works of art.

Ultimately, your choice of art medium will be influenced by factors such as your individual aesthetic, preferred working style, and access to materials and resources – there is no wrong choice.

Drawing and Sketching

Drawing is frequently the first step into the world of art for many aspiring artists, as it offers a versatile and accessible means of honing your skills and building a strong foundation for more advanced techniques.

Start by familiarising yourself with the fundamental drawing tools, such as pencils, erasers, and sketchbooks.

Pencils and erasers

Lead pencils (also referred to as graphite) come in a range of grades, from soft (B) to hard (H), each offering different levels of darkness and precision. As a beginner, you may want to start with a selection of pencils in various grades, allowing you to experiment with different techniques and find the perfect balance between precision and expression. You can then experiment with colour pencils, bringing vibrancy into your work.

Similarly to pencils, erasers are available in multiple types, including kneaded erasers, which are ideal for gently lifting pencil and creating subtle highlights, and plastic erasers, which are better suited for erasing larger areas and creating precise lines. When selecting drawing (and most art supplies) it’s always advisable to invest in quality materials, these will last longer and improve the outcome of your work.

Inks

As an alternative to pencil, using inks in drawing can offer a vibrant and impactful colour palette, fluid and expressive lines, and the ability to layer and blend for depth. Their versatility extends to a variety of surfaces and mixed media. Inks excel in creating fine details and precise lines, dry quickly to prevent smudging, and enable calligraphic possibilities. By incorporating inks, you can infuse your work with dynamic energy, experiment with diverse techniques, and achieve striking visual effects that add depth and emotion to your creations.

Paper

When it comes to choosing a sketchbook, consider factors such as size, paper quality, and binding. A smaller sketchbook may be more portable and convenient for quick sketches on the go, while a larger sketchbook can provide more space for detailed drawings and refined compositions. The type of paper within the sketchbook is also crucial, as it will impact how graphite strokes appear and how the paper responds to erasing. Look for cartridge paper with a medium weight (around 150gsm) and a pad with a firm, supportive card backing. Cartridge paper’s softly textured surface helps create a better grip for your pencil and produce more defined lines without effecting the integrity of your work. For longevity, choose an ‘acid-free’ paper and, as an insiders tip – go for a gum-bound, rather than spiral-bound pad, this is easier to use and remove your artwork without damage.

As you begin your drawing journey, remember that the most important aspect of your artistic development is practice and perseverance. You can invest in quality tools that inspire you and provide the best possible foundation for your work, but must also be patient with yourself as you learn and grow.

Drawing is a skill that can be nurtured and refined over time, and with dedication, experimentation, and a bit of guidance, you’ll soon find yourself well-equipped to tackle more advanced techniques and express your unique artistic vision.

Photography

Much like drawing, photography often serves as a gateway into the world of art, opening up a world of creativity and visual storytelling. It’s ready-availability should by no means distract from its potential as a powerful art form.

Camera equipment

To start, your smartphone’s camera can be a useful tool. As its always with you, its the perfect way to respond instantly and capture objects or moments that pique your interest. Begin by understanding it’s features, and experiment with framing, lighting and composition. Make sure you adjust your settings for the highest image resolution, this will help you get clear, quality photographs ready to edit, enlarge and print in the future.

For those ready to go a step further, investing in a digital camera provides more control over settings like aperture, shutter speed and ISO, leading to professional-quality images. Lenses play an equally pivotal role in photography, influencing factors like perspective and depth of field. From wide-angle to macro, each lens type lends a distinctive visual quality to your images.

Editing and printing

Whether captured on a phone or camera, you can explore editing software to enhance colours, adjust exposure, and play creatively with your work. Here is a great place to experiment as, after all, you can always go back to your original version if you don’t like what you create.

But your creativity doesn’t have to stop on your screen. You can experiment with alternative printing methods like Anthotype or Cyantype, or print your images to use in mixed media artworks. Experiment with transferring photos onto various surfaces like wood or fabric, creating layers of texture and visual interest. This fusion of photography with other artistic mediums adds depth and narrative to your creations, offering a fresh way to convey emotions and stories.

Painting

Painting is a timeless art form, offering a vast array of possibilities for creative expression. Whether you’re drawn to the delicate translucency of watercolours, or the rich, bold textures of oils, there is a painting medium to suit every artistic inclination.

Watercolours and Gouache, for instance, are known for their soft, luminous quality and ability to create dreamy, ethereal effects. Acrylics, on the other hand, are known for their fast-drying nature and versatility, allowing you to create anything from thin, transparent washes to thick, impasto layers. Oils, while more challenging to work with, offer unparalleled richness and depth, with their slower drying time providing ample opportunity for blending and creating intricate details.

As with drawing materials, its best to invest in good-quality paints. Accompany these with brushes that are specifically designed for your chosen medium. Both will help ensure better control, precision and results in your work.

In addition, painting surfaces like canvas, paper, and wood panels each have their own distinct qualities, which can greatly influence the outcome of your artwork.

Canvas

Canvas is a popular choice due to its flexibility and texture. It can come in two primary forms: stretched canvas, which is often used for larger artworks, and canvas panels, which are rigid and suitable for smaller pieces. Canvas provides a textured surface that adds depth and dimension, perfect for both acrylic and oil paints. Stretched canvas can be displayed without framing, giving your piece a contemporary look, however improper preparation might lead to warping. For oil painting, a few layers of gesso can guard against oil’s impact on your canvases longevity.

Paper

Paper offers a diverse range of weights and textures, opening up numerous creative avenues. Watercolour paper is specifically designed for wet media, while heavier variants are well-suited for acrylics and mixed media applications. Although oils can be used on paper, they often require priming to prevent seepage. Paper is cost-effective and widely accessible, making it a staple for watercolours, gouache, and ink. Its lightweight and versatile nature lends itself to sketching and experimentation. Even so, paper’s delicacy might limit its ability to handle extensive layering or impasto techniques and, to ensure artwork preservation, framing under glass is recommended.

Wood panels

Wood panels provide a reliable and steady painting surface. Available in different thicknesses and textures, you can select the one that aligns with your artistic approach. Offering a sleek canvas for intricate details, they seamlessly accommodate acrylics and oil, and their robust nature resists warping, ensuring lasting quality. With panels, you have the choice to frame or go frameless, creating a traditional or contemporary finish to your work. Keep in mind that wood panels tend to be heavier and costlier than canvas or paper alternatives. They also may require priming with gesso to ensure that paint adheres well.

Mixed Media

Mixed media offers a unique opportunity to incorporate a variety of textures, colours and materials into your artwork – resulting in pieces that are rich, multi-dimensional and deeply personal. This approach to artistry is ideal for those looking to experiment and break free from conventions. It also suits any budget and can inspire more creativity as you adapt to use items found around you.

Some popular mixed media elements include collage materials such as magazine clippings, photographs and fabric scraps, which can add visual interest and meaning to your compositions. You may also find that incorporating found objects, such as buttons, leaves, or even bits of rusted metal, adds an unexpected depth and character to your pieces. Drawing and painting tools like pastels, charcoal, and markers can then be used alongside these materials to create intriguing contrasts and harmonies within your work.

The beauty of mixed media lies in its inherent flexibility and the freedom it grants you as an artist to experiment and discover new ways of expressing yourself. Contemporary artists around the world are renowned for pushing this medium, sometimes with polarising reactions. They deftly use all and any objects to create challenging discourse and articulate their inner and outer worlds.

The key to successful mixed media art is embracing a spirit of curiosity, playfulness, and openness to the unexpected. By allowing yourself the freedom to explore a diverse range of materials and techniques, you can not only develop a broader set of artistic skills but also create truly unique and impactful works of art.

Establishing Your Artistic Practice

A Productive Workspace

Having a dedicated and organised workspace can nurture your creativity and enhance your productivity as an artist. A well-designed art space or studio not only inspires and motivates you, but also ensures that your supplies and tools are easily accessible – making the creative process more enjoyable and efficient.

First and foremost, consider the space you have available and how you can best utilise it to meet your artistic needs. If you’re working with a small area, be strategic about your layout and opt for space-saving solutions such as wall-mounted shelves or vertical storage units. These will help you keep your supplies organised and within easy reach, without cluttering your workspace. If you have more room to work with, designate specific zones for different tasks or mediums, such as a painting area, a drawing station, and a space for assembling mixed media pieces.

Lighting is another crucial aspect of your setup, as it can greatly impact the accuracy of colours and the overall atmosphere of your workspace. Aim for a combination of natural and artificial light sources, with a focus on even, diffused lighting to prevent harsh shadows and glare. If possible, choose a space with ample natural light, such as a room with large windows or a skylight. For artificial lighting, invest in adjustable LED lights or daylight bulbs, which provide a more accurate representation of colours.

When it comes to furniture, ergonomics and comfort should be top priorities. Choose a chair that provides proper back support and allows for adjustments in height and tilt, ensuring that you can maintain a comfortable posture while working. A height-adjustable table or easel can also be beneficial, allowing you to switch between sitting and standing positions as needed. This change of physical position can often provide a much needed sense of invigoration.

By carefully considering the layout, lighting, and furniture in your art space, you can create a space that fosters creativity, focus, and productivity. Remember also, your workspace should be a reflection of your personal style and artistic needs, so don’t be afraid to customise it to suit your preferences. Incorporate the things that you love and feel inspired by, both artistically and personally. With a well-designed art space, you will be better equipped to fully embrace your creativity and produce your best work.

Developing a Consistent Art Practice

Consistency is the cornerstone of honing your artistic skills and discovering your unique style. A regular art practice not only helps you develop your techniques and abilities but also fosters a deeper connection with your creative instincts.

Goal-setting is a valuable strategy for maintaining consistency in your art practice. By defining clear, attainable objectives, you will have a roadmap to guide your progress and a way to measure your growth over time. Your goals can be as simple as creating one small sketch or photo per week, or as ambitious as completing a full-scale painting each month. The important thing is to ensure your goals are realistic, achievable, and aligned with your personal interests and aspirations. Be open to revising your goals as needed, allowing them to evolve along with your artistic development.

Scheduling regular art sessions will help you establish consistency in your practice. Carve out dedicated time in your daily or weekly routine for your art, treating it with the same importance as any other appointment or commitment. By establishing a consistent routine, you’ll create a sense of discipline and structure that will support your artistic growth.

Maintaining motivation and perspective can be one of the most challenging aspects of a consistent art practice, especially when faced with the realities of day to day life. Remember, you are only human, and illness, busyness, and fun are normal parts of life. Whilst you want to stay consistent, the key to this is not dwelling on what you haven’t done, but just picking back up where you left off. Celebrate your achievements and progress, no matter how small, and learn to view challenges or breaks as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Seeking Inspiration and Staying Creative

Inspiration is the driving force behind artistic expression, however finding and sustaining inspiration can sometimes be a challenge.

One of the most effective ways to find inspiration is to absorb the art and creativity of others. Visiting art galleries and museums offers incredible opportunities to experience the rich history and diverse styles of the art world. From the masterpieces housed in the National Gallery of London and the UK’s Tate Galleries, to the treasures of the Louvre in Paris and the Uffizi Gallery in Florence – experiencing art in person can have a profound impact on your own creative pursuits.

Workshops and Courses provide a hands-on, immersive learning experience that can be invaluable for expanding your skills and exploring new techniques. Many art centres, galleries like The Thomas-Ferdinand Gallery, and educational institutions offer a wide variety of these. These resources cover everything from learning art history to developing traditional and contemporary art techniques. Participating in them can not only equip you with new skills, but can connect you with fellow artists and instructors, providing valuable insights, guidance, and inspiration.

Yet, inspiration doesn’t always require external gestures. It can be found at home, online, in books, or in magazines. It can be found in the ordinary objects around us. By challenging ourselves to see things anew, we discover that the simplest items and experiences can become subjects of creativity. A lamp’s shadow, the play of colours on a coffee cup, or the textures of fabrics – all hold potential.

Thinking outside the box and looking at the familiar from a new perspective can unlock a world of innovative ideas. In the end, finding artistic inspiration in unexpected places is about training our minds to be observant, curious, and open.

Networking and Building an Art Community

Engaging with fellow artists is another invaluable way to establish your articles practice. It allows you to share ideas, learn from others’ experiences, and gain fresh perspectives on your own work.

Local art groups and clubs offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in your local art scene. These organisations often organise regular meetings, workshops, and exhibitions, providing a supportive environment where you can learn from others, share your experiences, and showcase your work. To find art groups in your area, search online, visit local galleries or art centres, and consult local newspapers and community notice boards. Don’t be afraid to reach out and introduce yourself, as these communities thrive on the enthusiasm and contributions of their members.

Attending local art events, such as exhibitions, fairs, and open studios, is another excellent way to build your art community and network with both emerging and established artists. These events offer invaluable insights into the latest trends and techniques, as well as opportunities to engage in conversations about art and creativity. When attending such events, be open and approachable, and don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with fellow attendees, this can be a great way to create lasting connections.

If travel is an issue, social media platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, offer powerful tools for networking and building an art community. By engaging with other artists and art lovers, you can tap into a global network of creative individuals who share your passion for art and help keep it alive.

Afro Goddess Looking Forward, 2017 · Rhinestones, Acrylic, Collage and Oil on Wood Panel · 152.4h x 243.8w (cm) · © Mickalene Thomas

With the right tools, knowledge and outlook, you can successfully navigate the world of art and unlock your creative potential.

Continual learning and experimentation lie at the heart of this artistic evolution. The more open you are to yourself, your influences and your materials, the better your art will become.

Above all, you must remember that artistic growth is a personal and gradual process. Even some of our most celebrated artists took years to develop the bodies of work we admire so much today. Artists like Piet Mondrian, now forged in history for his abstract paintings, started off on a completely different path.

So be patient with yourself, enjoy the journey, and watch as your artistry flourishes in unexpected and rewarding ways.

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Elevate Your Art: Tips for Beginners