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Forums » Art & Creativity » Questions and tips for the midsummer art trade

Leela

Ok, ok, I have seriously been panicking about it and the due date is at the end of the month. I've drawn more then 4 hours of just character "practice" because I don't think my art is very good. The person I'm going to have to give to has like such good art and I'm just panicking and drawing as much as I can. Ok, I need to know, is anyone out there feeling like me or am I alone in this? I mean hairstyle after hairstyle, new art method after new art method, colour changing, everything and I think it doesn't look at that good. I mean I haven't even begun on the other character I'm supposed to draw and I've invested this much time.

;-;

If anyone can give me some tips about this or personal experience I would be very happy to hear it.
It's always really difficult to know if you're doing a good job when you can't contact the person you're drawing for, no matter the skill set you're working with. You do have a whole month to play with it though, so maybe take a step back and come to it again in a day or so and see what insights you have then? Sometimes when I can't get something right, taking a breather on it works out for me. I come back with fresh eyes and some really good work.

I think it's pretty common to not think your own work is very good. I know I struggle with it daily, but keep in mind this is a gift for that other person! And everyone loves gifts and if you put the effort in, they're going to see it and appreciate it! Good luck!
PANGAEA

Noo! Don't panic! Though I do understand what you're coming from. And don't worry, you have an entire month ahead of you!

I would try and draw everything perfectly only to have it fall apart and look like absolute crap. So, be at ease and comfortable when you start drawing and it's always good to know exactly what you're drawing beforehand (doesn't mean you can't change anything, but now you have a basis for your drawing). It takes far longer to sketch around to try and find the right pose, composition, etc..

Another thing I would recommend is just sketching often. Watching others' draw, looking at others' drawings really helps me build up some motivation to do so, but there are times where I just can't get motivated period and I think those are the best moments to draw. The more I did that, the more I could draw on command and from there you can sketch to your heart's content!

You have plenty of time to practice and make the drawing as good as you'd like it to be. Regardless, it's a trade for all levels of artists and I'm sure the person you're drawing for would understand that and appreciate the effort you put into your work! Good luck! <3 I hope this helps!
Kim Site Admin

I agree with what's been said, and also want to add: It looks like you're in the Dabbler category, the perfect place for people who are new to art, not yet confident in their skills, but are really wanting to try their best and give something with lots of love in it to their recipient. :)

There are a handful of very highly experienced or professional artists who choose to enter into the Dabbler category, and it sounds like you might have got one of those, which can be daunting! But remember that they aren't there for the most mind blowing piece of art they've ever seen, they're there to encourage new artists, give the gift of their skills, and have fun drawing together in a community setting. It sounds like you're doing exactly what you should be doing, giving it your full effort.

Remember: it's not important that you do the best piece of art ever, it's only important that you do your best. Your best is relative to you and your learning progress right now, not to anyone else. :)
I also have to agree with everything else that's been said here. And I know your pain: I'm in the Devotee category, and I personally think everyone else's art is leagues beyond my own developing art style and practice. I think it's best to remember that it's okay to make a mistake or two; that's how you grow as an artist! Maybe you can even go back one day and redraw your trade as a gift for them!

I also second taking a step back for a day or two then coming back to it. It puts a lot into perspective and you notice things that are off that weren't there before. It's also wise to take the time out and draw something you enjoy and know that you're good at as well to relieve some stress. That's what helps me at least when I have trades and requests: it also kinda reminds me of why I draw in the first place.

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