I Need Some Advice
2mo
Connor Hissem
I have always been interested in art since I was little but never had any real chance to get into it, my parents weren't against me doing it but they also didn't want me to waste my time on it so I was never able to join any clubs/classes to get any practical experience. Eventually I just dropped the idea all together of trying it, telling myself that i'd be no good and that its just a waste of time. But I just couldn't get the feeling to go away that I was missing out on apart of myself that could make me happy.
Now that im 19 and have a job of my own to pay for materials ive been playing with the idea of starting to get back into it. Its just that I feel a bit lost because I know that I dont have any "good" skills with drawing or painting so I dont know where to start. I've been looking up books an videos on perspective and shape sketching but I dont know if im doing or looking at the right things so I need advice on how to start "any book recommendations would be really appreciated".
Another reason Im on this Page is to ask about oil painting specifically what kinds of paints should I get. I've been looking at oil painting thinking that it could be a fun medium to work with so I bought a few random paints after doing some research. Tell me what you think and make any recommendations you think I should add to round out what I bought already. Also a link to a good set of brushes would be appreciated too.
Cold
Pthalo Green - Gamblin 1980
Viridian - Winsor & Newton
Dioxazine Purple - Gamblin 1980
Raidiant Violet - Gamblin
Pthalo Blue - Gamblin 1980
Prussian Blue - Winsor & Newton
Cobalt Blue - Winsor & Newton
Warm
Cadmium Red Medium - Gamblin 1980
Yelloe Ochre - Gamblin 1980
Cadmium Yellow - Winsor & Newton
Cadmium Orange Hue - Winsor & Newton
Permanent Alizarin Crimson - Winsor & Newton
Burnt Sienna - Winsor & Newton
Raw Umber - Winsor & Newton
Black and White
Titanium White - Winsor & Newton
Ivory Black - Winsor & Newton
Hi Connor,
That’s awesome that you’re starting your journey into art and painting! 🎨 Even though I don’t have much experience with painting myself, I can share a bit from my own drawing journey.
First, it’s completely normal to feel lost in the beginning. When I started drawing at 29, I had no idea where to begin and no real skills. What helped me was following a one-year art challenge I found on YouTube each month had a different challenge. By the end of it, I realized how much I loved drawing, and that’s when I decided to pursue a more structured program through Proko.
Second, I really understand your concern about parental support. My parents also had doubts about the idea of being an artist, so I chose to keep my art private. I went to school, worked, and still carved out time to draw without sharing it with them or even some friends. I just wanted to protect my art from negative comments like “starving artist.” Now, two years later at 31, I’m still drawing, still learning with Proko, and working toward a career that provides income to support me and my art until one day, I hope my art can support me.
lastly, I would look at any artist that are painters that you can do master studies from. Try google, youtube and you will eventually come across artists that you will want to study from. Books will start to interest you and podcasts will give you right information that you’re looking for.
you don’t have to have all the answers today, tomorrow, next week or next month….
just start today and explore. Make happy accidents , learn, laugh, and have fun!
I hope it helped!
