There are few things more helpful to the early development of an amateur artist than instilling a strong sense of confidence. Like so many things, this is a feat that is easier said than done, as even the most talented of amateur artists may sometimes be prone to the kind of insecurity that might derail an otherwise promising future. Fortunately, the following five methods can offer a great deal of help and are hardly complicated strategies for helping amateur artists become better artists.
Encourage Individuality and Offer New Perspectives
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Everyone possesses a few quirks or idiosyncrasies, and, for the most part, these odd or off-kilter character traits are entirely innocuous. As long as there is nothing clearly detrimental in doing so, these quirks and idiosyncrasies — along with the individuality they represent — should be encouraged to the greatest degree possible. Countless studies on artistic creativity have revealed that individuals who possess a few quirks tend to be more creative and more productive, particularly when it comes to artistic pursuits.
Help Create a Strong Artistic Foundation
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Obviously, encouraging a sense of individuality can only go so far without the continued development of a strong artistic foundation. It is for this reason that basic art principles, whether it be in pursuing oil paintings or watercolors, should be taught to amateur artists as soon as possible. An amateur artist who sharpens their skills while developing an understanding of important foundational concepts like perspective will progress at a faster rate and will feel a greater sense of confidence in their artwork.
Connect — and Re-Connect — With Nature
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A close connection with nature can play a significant role in the development of an amateur artist, and even a brief walk outside will reap serious rewards in terms of creative output and creativity in general. In addition to imbuing a pervasive sense of calm, time spent outside encourages thoughtful reflection and observation of one’s surroundings.
Invest in Basic Art Materials
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A small investment in basic art materials of a decent quality — pencils and art paper, or paints and brushes, for example — will yield a sizable return over time. Remember, an amateur artist will not necessarily benefit from the most expensive materials or the most comprehensive sets of supplies until they have sharpened their skills to a significant degree, so focus on providing a diverse set of supplies that encourage experimentation with several different styles and mediums.
Discuss Art History and Pursue Educational Opportunities
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Observation is a critical skill that must be developed in the amateur artist, so any immersive artistic experience will be especially helpful in terms of artistic development. Regular trips to museums and art galleries are quite valuable, as are regular discussions regarding art history and influential artists. Books on art history make excellent gifts for the amateur artist and will further ensure their continued artistic development.
So, tell us, what do you like to do to help your budding artist?
