I first started studying arts when I was 14 years old. Now I’m 25. Yesterday, as I do every year, I begun selecting the works that should remain in the box that I use to keep all my (printed/painted/drawn) works, and the ones that I should throw away because they don’t mean anything to me anymore or just don’t fit to that collection. Among them, something I forgot that was there: a plain paper sheet with 20 commandments. The 20 artist’s commandments. I remember writing that in my first day of art class with Joe Prado, the man about to be my teacher for 2 years more, and tought me almost everything I know. In case you don’t know him, check these, he’s a monster – and a very caring person. I can’t quite recall if those 20 commandments were just his or if the school had any hand in that, but they fit Joe’s character very well. Also, these sayings have kind of followed me since, and helped me become a better artist, writer and better person. If you’re one of the aforementioned, pay attention:
1) Always keep drawing.
2) Draw for fun.
3) Draw for obligation.
4) Practice without stop.
5) Respect opinions.
6) Listen to opinions.
7) Listen to opinions of those who know more than you.
8) Accept your limitations.
9) Study to overcome them.
10) Study anatomy.
11) Study perspective.
12) Study lighting.
13) Study EVERYTHING.
14) Be humble.
15) Be disciplined.
16) Look – in reality – for the elements of your “fiction”.
17) Be open-minded.
18) Pay attention to the moment we’re living, it’s tendencies and trends.
19) Keep drawing, and never give up.
20) Nothing is impossible.
Thanks for everything, Joe!
Joe sounds like an great mentor — and these are all great commandments. Definitely one to print and hang on the studio wall. Thanks for sharing them.
You’re welcome!
Joe’s a very cool guy. Always incentivated me to search for my own style.
Whenever I stray from the way, I get back to those and start drawing gain.
Seems to have done great things for you! I’m excited to have found your work. Looking forward to more comics