- 1). Let go of the idea that your drawing will look exactly like the subject--and in fact, let go of your preconceived ideas that good art strives to replicate life. Many mature artists have spent years trying to develop their own personal style. When you have become a tried and practiced artist yourself, you will come to understand that the style is the art.
- 2). Choose a subject that does not need to be accurately reproduced in order to be understood for what it is. For example, a tree is a more appropriate subject than a person. People are especially difficult since humans are sensitive to even the most minor inaccuracies in drawn faces. On the other hand, a tree looks like a tree regardless of the placement of the branches and leaves.
- 3). Choose a medium that you'll enjoy using. Drawing doesn't have to involve a pencil--you may use pastels, charcoal, crayons, or really anything that mimics the act of drawing and doesn't involve paint. The more interactive and messy the medium (charcoal is a great example of this), the more likely you are to abandon your inhibitions and open up to the experience.
- 4). Begin drawing--do not erase. Allow yourself to make mistakes, and accept them. Appreciate the distortions and inaccuracies. Your struggle to portray the subject is a part of the art. (And let's face it, you're going to make mistakes, so enjoy them.)
- 5). Keep your drawings private, if that's what pleases you. There's no reason you should need to show others what you've been up to.
- 6). Practice drawing, and try a variety of subjects. Find something you're passionate about drawing--something that interests you and is personally meaningful. Sample a variety of mediums until you find one you love to work with. Also, try working with different types of papers and papers of different dimensions. Work large, work small.
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