To be an artist is to be someone with a limitless number of expressions. To be able to discover your art style, you need to have discovered yourself as an artist first. If you have not made this realization, it is almost impossible to discover your authentic style. There are many styles of art, and it can be challenging to find a style that suits your creative talent. This is not something which happens overnight, but something which takes time and practice to develop. Discovering this style will require you to look at every aspect — from technique, composition, colors, the subject, and more. In this ever-evolving journey, art becomes a reflection of your soul.
There is an abundance of art styles waiting to be explored — some quite contemporary, others more modern or traditional. Each is unique and expresses the artist’s feelings. Expressing your style can be done through painting, drawing, sculpture, or even through fashion and music. Finding your style involves discovering whether you prefer muted or bright shades. It’s not necessary to know about every style in detail, but having a foundation helps you grow. Impressionism, Fine Art, Abstract, Modern, Contemporary, and Cubism are just a few of the many styles within painting and drawing.
To begin, explore a few art styles and take notes on them. Write down what captures your attention — the use of colors, the subject matter, and whether it’s abstract or realistic. Then, choose a characteristic from each style and practice it. As you go through different experiences in life, your art techniques and style will naturally evolve. You have the freedom to adapt and grow. Let’s look at a few structured ways to discover your art style:
Follow Artists You Love
This doesn’t mean copying their work exactly — rather, observe their techniques and design choices, then add your own creative touch. By following artists, you gain inspiration. They don’t have to be painters; they could be cartoonists, photographers, or designers. Many artists share their work on Facebook and personal websites, where you can learn and grow. Remember, these platforms are tools for learning and inspiration — your originality is what defines your art.
Search for Inspiration
The world around you is full of inspiration. Landscapes, birds in motion, people — all can ignite creativity. Be observant and learn from your surroundings. If you ever feel uninspired, just remember the endless color palette of nature itself! Taking time to learn new skills and gain new perspectives helps refine your style. But always keep in mind — it takes time, patience, and effort to truly master your craft.
Continue to Practice
Art must be practiced to be perfected — simply thinking about it won’t help. A true artist must feel the brushwork, the paint, and the texture of the canvas. Set aside time each day to paint something new and experiment with techniques you’ve discovered. Hands-on experience will teach you whether a method suits your style or not.
As an artist, it’s essential to challenge yourself and try new ideas. Mistakes are part of the process. Enjoy what you do and don’t let setbacks discourage you. Keep experimenting, keep learning — because art is a lifelong journey filled with beauty, exploration, and growth.
Manesha Peiris (2022)
