When it comes to the world of art, there is often a lot of focus on finding your own unique art style. Artists are constantly striving to create something that is distinctly their own, something that sets them apart from the rest. But in the pursuit of developing a signature style, one important aspect of art tends to get overlooked – realism.
Realism, the ability to accurately depict the world as it is, is often seen as a stepping stone to finding your own style. Many artists see realism as a hindrance, something that holds them back from fully expressing themselves through their art. But what if I told you that realism is not the enemy, but rather the key to unlocking your true potential as an artist?
Imagine you are in a lecture hall, tasked with summarizing an article in 500 words. The article represents the subject, and your summary is your art. The way you choose to summarize the article, the words you use, the structure of your sentences, all of these elements make up your unique style. But without a deep understanding of the article itself, it would be impossible for you to create a compelling summary.
The same principle applies to art. When you have a strong foundation in realism, when you understand the subject you are drawing to a high degree, it becomes much easier to stylize and create art that is truly your own. Realism is like a solid foundation that you can build upon, allowing you to push the boundaries of style and creativity.
Take a look at some of the most iconic artists in the industry. From Disney animators to manga artists, they all have one thing in common – they know how to draw realistically. This foundational knowledge is what allows them to stylize their characters in such unique and captivating ways. By understanding the structure and anatomy of their subjects, they are able to create art that is not only visually appealing but also grounded in reality.
One artist who exemplifies this principle is Ilya Kuvshinov. Known for his stunning and simplistic art style, Kuvshinov’s work is a perfect blend of realism and stylization. His characters have a sense of depth and realism to them, despite being highly stylized. This ability to balance realism with stylization is what sets him apart as a truly exceptional artist.
Another artist who showcases the power of realism in art is Aaron Blaise, a former Disney animator known for his incredible animal drawings. Blaise’s characters are highly expressive and emotive, yet they retain a sense of realism that grounds them in reality. His ability to accurately depict animals allows him to push their proportions in a way that is believable yet highly stylized.
Ethan Becker is another artist who demonstrates the importance of realism in art. While his work may seem purely stylized at first glance, a closer look reveals a strong foundation in realistic proportions. By understanding the fundamentals of anatomy and form, Becker is able to create characters that are striking and dynamic, yet still rooted in realism.
And of course, let’s not forget Glen Keane, a Disney artist known for his iconic character designs. Keane’s princesses may have exaggerated proportions and fantastical features, but underneath the layers of stylization lies a deep understanding of anatomy and structure. This foundational knowledge is what allows him to create characters that are both whimsical and grounded in reality.
So, what does this all mean for aspiring artists? Do you need to master realism before you can develop your own style? The answer is not black and white. While having a strong foundation in realism can certainly benefit your artistic journey, it is not a prerequisite for finding your own voice as an artist.
Experimenting with realism, trying out different styles, and pushing the boundaries of creativity are all essential parts of the artistic process. Realism is just one tool in your artistic toolbox, a tool that can help you build a strong foundation for your art but should not limit your creative expression.
So, the next time you sit down to draw, consider exploring the world of realism. Take the time to study anatomy, form, and structure, and see how it can enhance your stylized art. Remember, realism is not the enemy – it is a powerful tool that can elevate your art to new heights. Embrace it, experiment with it, and let it guide you on your artistic journey. Who knows, you may just discover a whole new side to your art that you never knew existed.
