PET PEEVES & SUGGESTIONS: ART-MAKING DO'S & DON'TS

Today's post is about some of the things that I, as a visual arts educator, believe in. You may not agree with everything here, and that's okay, but I feel each of the following.

1. If at all possible, don't trace. You'll learn with drawing practice...the more the better. Tracing is often a crutch.
2. DO substitute materials and use what you have on hand. Save our resources, don't waste. Such experimentation with media, tools, substrates and more may lead to some pleasant surprises!
3. Don't rely on reference photos if you can help it. Draw from life or your own imagination.
4. Pretty or cute aren't necessary in an artwork. Nor is "whimsical."
5. DO explore outside your comfort zone. And play, play, play!