6 Things Every Artist Needs

Since I am an aspiring artist, studying to be an art teacher, I thought it would be a good idea if I created a list that could help artists out there who may just be getting started in the art world. A few of my past teachers, professors, and mentors are the ones who opened my eyes to the lives of several artists, past and present. After studying in their classes, and studying the artworks of those phenomenal artists, I've concocted this list according to what I've learned through experience.

*Not in any certain order*

1. A Sketchbook/Journal

• It's very important that you take this with you everywhere- I prefer smaller travel size ones (5x7), but any size will work. You may see something interesting that you'd like to sketch, or find a sticker on the sidewalk that you could just stick inside. Once you start collecting sketches, stickers, and other strange or impressive objects you find, you'll notice your book will up fast. It's important to always have a spare tucked away somewhere for later. Also, make sure it has paper that will hold up to water, ink, and dry media. Mixed media paper works best.

2. Pencils, Pens, Markers, Paint etc.

• You definitely need media that you can use to draw/sketch/paint with. You will want to mix it up. It makes for an exciting sketchbook, and you can always mix different media together for a nice finished drawing.

3. Camera

• This doesn't have to be fancy. You can choose from a wide range of cameras (film or digital). Even your phone camera will work, but it should be 2.0 mpx or higher. You'll need this to capture interesting people, scenes, objects around you that you can't sit and watch for hours or if you're short on time. It helps to download them to your computer for a larger image to work from.

4. A Water-Proof Portfolio

• A portable portfolio of all of your work, or even just photos of your work can help you to stay organized. You can carry this with you or just leave it somewhere to store your work. It always comes in handy when you're traveling with your work in the rain, and when you go to an interview that requires examples of your work. It's always nice to have it just in case.

5. Ruler/Straight Edge

• This isn't an absolute necessity, but it will help you if you're trying to achieve something geometric, make a line straight in your composition, or just want to experiment with line.

6. Patience

• Your definition of "good" art may not happen on your first few tries. You have to be patient, practice consistently, and be critical of the decisions you make. Tying all of those together will help you to create a successful composition. If your best work doesn't happen on your first try, try again. 

Some sites you may like to try:
http://www.michaels.com/
http://www.dickblick.com/

Later.
WA