Post #331394 by Babalu on Sun, Sep 9, 2007 12:42 PM

BK and long time TCers, I hope you don't mind me jumping in for a go at this? I don't wish to overstep a boundary as I am relatively new to wood carving, but I have been creating art since I was a kid, and have attained a few things that might be of some benefit to other new carvers/artists.

In no real order...

Ask questions no matter how silly they may seem....I had a wise old teacher once tell me that "without asking questions in art, and in all other aspects of life, the topic of our children and their future is a moot point."

Yes, researching past art is very important, but to really learn what it is to "see" that art is more. Focus...what is it that moves you about that work. Copy verbatim if you need to in the beginning, or if this is what you choose to do. Learn to analyze....maybe the only thing you see on a past work is a nose, or a body position that intrigues you? If so, borrow it if you need to. Be true to who you are as an artist....follow your own bliss. Great things will happen!

Your tools are a huge part of your path. Learn them. A tool is a tool....fear no tool. Use everything at your disposal to achieve your goal. Know there is pretty much a fix for anything. Constantly try new tools no matter what level carver you are. You are in control of the tool, it is not in control of you. Safety! - fingers are difficult, and expensive to sew back on.

Keep pushing your skill level as others here have stated...strive to be better. Years from now, when your skills have been refined, and you are feeling comfortable within your medium...be humble. You will always be able to find a carver that is better than you...Search them out. Learn from them. There is no top to this ladder you have chosen to climb.

Be open to change. All past art, from primitive oceanic, to modern minimal painting has had progression defined within it's history. Art, like everything else, is constantly evolving. If we had grown in a world void of progressive art today, we would have no clue as to where we came from.

Hang with other artists...this will be a major motivating tool and will keep you in the loop.

Realize that you have a better chance of becoming the next Mick Jagger than you do of becoming wealthy in the fine arts....I have met some world class talent in my life's travels....for the "major" most part, they all still eat Hamburger Helper and Top Ramen Noodles.