How to Train to Become a Successful Working Artist

In this Podcast Jeff shares his insight on successful training in the arts drawing on his background in athletics he discusses topics including repetition in the arts, goal setting, time management and visualization/manifestation techniques. Jeff's passion for the craft is evident as he offers his take on becoming a successful working artist. Free Trial of Watts Atelier Online:

[koikkyu]

Parts I’ll definitely revisit

> What to ask yourself in order to learn 21:40
> Emulation -> fastest way to visual proficiency 31:00
> Keep pushing in higher levels of learning and topics 33:05
> Consistency & Planning List 48:48
> Don’t read books on drawing, except for… 49:42
> Maintaining knowledge, visual memory and second nature 50:30
> Mastery mindset and love for the art 51:56
> Other mindsets you might wanna change if you want to achieve mastery 52:35
> Character “flaws” and discipline 53:28
> Intuitive learning 59:15

[Sabamonster]

I'm 36 years old, a medically retired veteran and I finally decided I wasn't going to listen to the voice in my head that told me I couldn't draw. I was ridiculed in grade school for my inability to do so, so I was never willing to try it, even though I loved it. I now spend 8 - 12 hours a day training and have made things I never thought I was capable of. On the down side, I really need someone to guide me and help me ascertain how I need to approach my learning so that I'm not wasting colossal amounts of time. Haven't really found anyone that was able to do so, or that was willing. Being on a fixed income money is also an obstacle. That being said I'm strongly considering signing up to your school, just to learn from you. Thank you for this video

[SewageSquid]

I’ve been drawing kind of consistently for 5 years with 0 proper training. I’ve just barely now realized the skill and hard work it takes to draw well. How many years and hours it takes. I appreciate art so much more now than I ever did. Drawing this last year awoke a deeper connection and dedication to want to get better. To be an artist at the levels I respect and love so much would just be life changing for me. I want art to be my therapy and way to express myself in ways other people might finally understand. I’m only 24. I can’t imagine another 10 years of consistent hard work.

[InPursuitOfArt]

This is incredible advice. This needs to be heard by every beginner and then listened to again and again every few months... Thank you!

[giveess]

This advice is IDENTICAL to advice given at Zen Mountain Monastery about zen practice. The artist path is indeed a spiritual path.

[oscyrion]

I keep coming back to thia video, over and over, it is one of the most complete and in-depth videos for a roadmap to become a pro.

[gosiaczek]

This was exaclty what I needed to hear. I've decided to follow my dreams and become an artists around one year ago, since then I'm putting my heart into it but unfortunately my family is just waiting every day till "I will stop to play and become serious adult with normal job". Don't give up your dreams people!

[BackfromChina]

49:18 “you’re going to be getting 6, 7, 8 hours of head a week” am an adult. I am an adult. I am an adult.

[RobertMarzullo]

Very informative and I totally agree with your explanation of the art journey.  I never had the privilege of going to art college but I have always conditioned myself as if I was in training. I agree with all the points made here. Thanks a ton for sharing Jeff!

[valerismith]

I keep coming back to this video, I must have listened to it a dozen times. The thing I took from this that impacted my life so thoroughly is the idea of hard work and determination over a long period of time. I know this is about art but it also gave me insight on how to start working out and keep at it. Thanks Jeff!

[juliak]

Am 55 and starting..and really impressed me to watch this!  Thank you!

[StevenHoefflin]

Jeff Watts is the Einstein of the artistic pencil and brush . All of his students must be like thirsty sponges trying to soak up every drop of his knowledge. As his wisdom continues to spread, he will need to use a new scientific tool and clone himself in order to teach all those who wish to learn his artistic secrets that he so generously shares.
Jeff, thank you,
Steven M. Hoefflin, M.D, , F.I.C.S., F.A.C.S.

[jeffgrimes]

I still have doubts that at 35, I may not have the time or physical energy to do this... Yet the fire to create is burning ever-brighter. The idea of creating expressive, powerful fantasy illustrations eats at my soul.

[davecasey]

I wish I had heard this kind of stuff forty years ago when I was in high school.

[guilhermecahu]

This is the best video any artist may watch in their life. From beginners to those who are already studying, this is a gold nugget that must be kept on the artist's desk to be seen and remembered every single day.

[BunBunMuzic]

RIght on spot!! PAINTINg is DRAWING and DRAWING is PAINTING!
I left my art-school and thought myself since then, the teachers couldn't even draw a human body in perspective from some ankles... it was sooo frustrating...

[mkAYY]

wow ! NEVER heard someone talk so much sense about art :D
thankyou

[jmmacb]

This 50 yr old engineer just wants to say, "Follow your Bliss" -Joseph Campbell.
Excellent video, thanks.
Painting is now #3 on my daily "Must Do" list.

[fernfearie]

I love you Jeff Watts.
all you've said is a friendly and well said reminder.
I have been hypnotized and intrigued in listening to you... i especially felt the need to share this video to everyone once you began to state your opinion on working in a cubicle, pretending to be busy, not learning anything everyday, making phone calls for some company... yeah.
been there and i'll never go back.
long live the interesting artists!!

[Wendy]

I love watching this video from time to time. What I love most about Jeff Watts is his intensity. Thank you sir!