How to Train to Become a Successful Working Artist

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9 жыл бұрын

Jeffrey R. Watts is the founder of Watts Atelier, a highly respected private art studio in Encinitas, CA. He has taught and mentored artists for more than 23 years and now is bringing his considerable offering to the online community with the launch of Watts Atelier Online in late 2013. Monthly memberships start at $99 and include pass/fail critiques. Visit www.wattsatelier.com to learn more.
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:
www.wattsatelier.com/shop/fre...

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@koikkyu Жыл бұрын

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

@KM-lf7uu 3 жыл бұрын

I've worked as a professional artist for more than 30 years and I believe this video from Mr. Watts is one of the most realistic explanations of what it takes to be a visual artist I have ever seen. He is an honest and experienced voice for the arts. Don't go into the arts if you think it is easy, it is a life-long learning experience. If you enjoy the creative learning process and its ultimate emotional expression of life then the Arts are for you. Live life, examine life and then share with the world the poetry of life.

@mikesamovarov4054 Жыл бұрын

Are you saying, you actually sell art for living? Or are you some teacher or something (which is NOT being an artist).

@manualbreathing1stform 5 күн бұрын

i decided i wanted to be an artist at 30 with no art skills i literally breath eat and sleep on my books and videos because im so obsessed with learning. im broke i have no future so its all i got. ive been looking for a short while for guidance as i think it would improve my work if i could point out what i cant see. hopefully theres a future for me somewhere.

@InPursuitOfArt 7 жыл бұрын

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

@kevin-lancheros 5 жыл бұрын

Absolutely true. Right now I'm going through a very confusing part in my artistic journey, but this video has helped me a lot to clarify some of my doubts

@letterfretter9000 4 жыл бұрын

Heavenly yes!

@kayaeki 4 жыл бұрын

Hey man, please keep doing your art vids I love themm

@DoItYourselfIllinois 4 жыл бұрын

This is what I really needed to hear.

@DennisCNolasco 3 жыл бұрын

Well said my friend.

@Sabamonster 4 жыл бұрын

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

@storiesundermoonbeams9617 4 жыл бұрын

This is so inspiring to read!

@pheesees8171 3 жыл бұрын

Hey man, I'm 32. Also a disabled vet, trying to get into drawing. I gave up as a child, when a mean-spirited teacher threw away my drawings. I was really into art before that incident. I just started with the fundamentals recently, and I'm really determined to achieve a decent level of mastery. Would you mind sharing how I can get in touch with you outside of this platform? You should really look into the ANI Academy in Red Bank, NJ. It's a traditional atelier for disabled vets, and I believe the tuition is free.

@SevereMalfunction7 3 жыл бұрын

> Haven't really found anyone that was able to do so, or that was willing Cannot recommend art fundamental books enough. Find a style you want to copy. Find an artist in that style that has a book on doing that style. Of course it takes some mentoring still to find which books you need to find and how to iterate on your mistakes, but a book will still be a better mentor than you might have now. In my case, I wanted to draw comic book style, so I got Stan Lee's and John Buscema's book on drawing comics. Then I supplemented with other books and live drawing sessions of my favorite comic book artists. Best of luck my fellow student!

@panamafred1 2 жыл бұрын

Same with me. On that battery of tests that the military gives upon entering service, I scored lowest in language. Boy did the tester give me a razzing. But I've been a retired expat in Panama for 15 years, and although I am not fluent in Spanish, I can call the electric company and tell them that my power is out, I can joke with people in line at the supermarket, and I can converse with Panamanians fairly well. Telling someone that they can't, or equally telling someone that there is no cure and they will never walk again, is the worst thing someone can say. Now at 73 I'm teaching myself to paint. How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice! Good luck with your study.

@Amarillia84 2 жыл бұрын

You can also go to twitch and find a lot of artists who are live streaming, asking questions and join to reddit and discord to ask for feedback. Many artists has Patreon too where they take a limited number of students and tutor them.

@brodieswift3061 12 күн бұрын

Ive watched this video probably 10 times over the last two years. I turn 35 in two weeks and Its taken me a long time to realise that art is my true calling. I wish I had started a decade ago but better I start today then in another decade. No more messing around. Its time to get focused! When I inevitably return to this video, I'll keep you all updated of my progress.

@dagger9555 Жыл бұрын

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.

@solemaniharami3963 10 ай бұрын

Do you share any of your work on social media? I’m in a similar situation, but I’ve only been training for 3 years. The whole ai situation has been extremely depressing tho

@dagger9555 10 ай бұрын

@@solemaniharami3963 I do! I have an Instagram but I have a full time job so I’m only able to post occasionally and with me wanting to make it look “good enough to post” I post maybe once a week. I want it to be a job but you do have to work for it and be good especially when learning on your own. I still want a level of professionalism and confidence in myself that I know what I’m doing. I do hate AI a lot. I believe AI will become a competitor but not take over completely. People are into art because of attachments and feelings. When art evokes feelings or interest that’s when they like it. Also I personally admire the skill it takes to make art. So when I see a piece that’s absolutely beautiful and it was made by a human I love it even more. People will always be drawn to man made things and some might prefer AI but I know there will always be a market for human made art. The world needs more people with passion. If it’s something you care deeply about then definitely keep going and that will shine through your work. People are drawn to that emotion and dedication as well.

@davecasey4341 9 жыл бұрын

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

@ValkiriStudio 9 жыл бұрын

***** I was thinking the exact same thing.

@Slaneous 9 жыл бұрын

***** Minus twenty years and I'm with you on this too!

@Vanzie1988 9 жыл бұрын

***** same here. wish i could go back 15 years

@ConnieFaye 9 жыл бұрын

***** Ditto!

@Blitz55 9 жыл бұрын

***** Wish Id heard it just 15 years ago.

@pushinsince9339 5 жыл бұрын

I'm 25 and just started taking Drawing seriously these past 7 months, I've always wanted to get into painting, graffiti, and clay sculptures and I'm glad I came across this video, it really helped shed some light and gave me a new perspective on things and I definitely will sign up for the online course.

@RobertMarzullo 9 жыл бұрын

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!

@dani70026 9 жыл бұрын

100% true. You'd expect people to hold back such information, but no Jeff is absolutely honest and direct. Amazing video.

@gosiaczek366 9 жыл бұрын

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!

@Metallic_977 4 жыл бұрын

Power to you! How's it going?

@kayaeki 4 жыл бұрын

DUde I hope you're doing art

@sketchartist1964 3 жыл бұрын

I know that feeling. I hope you are still pursuing your dream.

@bryantgaray4774 3 жыл бұрын

I know the feeling man, please don’t give up. I practice drawing everyday or whenever I can. I always have a pad with me everywhere I go and sketch pretty much the environment around me, they’re not the best sketches but practice makes perfect. I’ve been painting and sketching since January 2021. Since then I’ve sold a few painting and drawings. My next goal is to have a couple of my paintings in a gallery at my local arts center. Don’t give up!!!

@abdullahawad9679 3 жыл бұрын

Sometimes I hate family. Every parent should understand what his "child" (as we are always a child in their eyes even if you are at your 60s. ) is trying to do in life . Anyway . I hope you are still doing what you love and I hope your family will understand someday

@markhagan4431 7 жыл бұрын

This has a broader application than just art; great general life material.

@derektrudelle4182 4 жыл бұрын

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

@MIKEHUNT7531 8 жыл бұрын

I found this out when I was 23..last year and been hungry for knowledge ever since. I am happy I found out before I had kids and such. I am going to Scad for animation but I don't plan to put all my faith in my teachers making me good. I know its my will thats gonna push me forward. I lost weight through will power and learning from the right people and I believe i can learn it for art too. Already in a few months. I learned so much and it makes me feel so mad That I am 24 now wishing that I understood this a long time ago.

@LynnePriceStudio 8 жыл бұрын

+Michael Hunt You'll likely see me painting en plein air in the historic district. I was at Orleans Square the other day. I am completely self-taught and an impressionist. I need to catch up on the weight loss thing however (I am getting there via fasting though). Best wishes on your SCAD education and career as an artist!

@anotherdude9456 8 жыл бұрын

24 yrs old is still not a bad age, your still young and many artists will say its a life time of learning. im much older and continue to seek knowledge. Keep pushing yourself and im sure it will pay off.

@MIKEHUNT7531 7 жыл бұрын

thanks for the encouragement and I Like all your stories, My main problem was that I liked to draw too much anime and not actual learn from life and what not. Its pretty annoying that I did that for so long but I am so much better already I believe I can make it. I got into SCAD and RIngling but i am not able to afford the prices so I plan to just continue community college while trying to do Animation Mentor while online :) Good luck everyone!

@ernstryan1 7 жыл бұрын

DO NOT GO TO THE ART INSTITUTES! Please, take it from someone that went to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, the price is not worth the education. Most of our classes watched youtube videos to learn. If you really want to learn about art, design, or 3D modeling, take some online classes and set a schedule to learn what you want.

@thesouluniversal 7 жыл бұрын

Same applies to University in the UK, honestly.

@vpdisco 7 жыл бұрын

I had a good experience but the tuition was much lower than what it is now. My jaw dropped when I heard how much it cost these days.

@TheCosmicMedicineMan 7 жыл бұрын

Truth!

@oldgit4260 7 жыл бұрын

Ryan Ernst wow, i'd ask for a refund

@ernstryan1 7 жыл бұрын

"Hello Art Institute, I'd like my 90 thousand dollars back please." Hmm something tells me I won't be getting it.

@valerismith3181 3 жыл бұрын

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!

@ochavezart 7 ай бұрын

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.

@TomMasonSculptor 9 жыл бұрын

Such a powerful and informative video. When I was a student, I would be daunted and overwhelmed by the thought of how long it truly takes to develop artistic skills. Now, when I actually have less time, I feel more driven and inspired to work everyday to develop as an artist. Any young artist should be listening and doing what Jeff says and you will be amazed at how far you come. Oh and older artists like me should as well :)

@adriennelee1520 2 жыл бұрын

Reminds me years ago when I took my violin players sheet music off the stand and told her "Play what you feel." Changed her life.. and this was a Philharmonic player..Made the band sound better too.. music and art.. so related in the mind

@mkAYY825 8 жыл бұрын

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

@Sargeantslug 9 жыл бұрын

This is the most insightful thing I've seen on artistic advice, Jeff is one of the greatest teachers of our time.

@StevenHoefflin 9 жыл бұрын

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.

@juliak5592 9 жыл бұрын

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

@jameefrog6121 4 жыл бұрын

I'm anout to start where you were. How are you doing?

@IPOXstudios 8 жыл бұрын

Great motivation! I've watched this several times, and sometimes watch it when I draw. Thanks for all of the great videos, I plan on joining your online class once I finish the basics of another one.

@anneg4819 3 жыл бұрын

Tears. I am so grateful I have found this guidance I have been seeking. This is an enlightened and aligned video, just as the Watts online classes I have begun are. Thank you! I feel your pure intentions.

@josephtermeer4595 7 жыл бұрын

You need to write this in a book and sell it to the govt so they can make this part of the required academia for our educational system.

@samuelpark6782 4 жыл бұрын

thanks jeff. I listen to this every year since 2015 and it always keeps me in check. thanks so much

@marlenemeek9030 3 жыл бұрын

You are so inspiring! Thank you for cheering us on and for the VERY HELPFUL INFORMATION! Your ideas are sound and I feel so fortunate to have found you.

@silversurfer4441 2 жыл бұрын

This guy is the real deal. So many scammers out there-snakeskin oil salesmen trying to get your money by dishing out the bs. This fellow is an honest man and as open as a sieve. Thanks for your wonderful videos Mr Atelier.

@stephbourbonnais5164 8 жыл бұрын

Omg!!!! I so refreshing hear this, I feel like you just articulated everything about how I feel in just life! Thank you, Jeff Watt.

@juvenayudtud7500 7 жыл бұрын

Jeff Watts, you are my hero! An amazing understanding of being human, through discipline.

@CraigRussellArt 9 жыл бұрын

This was incredible! I was nearly in tears by the end.

@mjennifer30 8 жыл бұрын

So much appreciation that you took the time to make this video. This is a blessing in so many ways for where I am on my path right now. It hits home for me on so many levels. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

@mattmacaraeg 3 жыл бұрын

I needed this 6 years ago! Well said/spoken and you know Watt has seen/gone through it all. Thanks for this!

@eliasandrino 7 жыл бұрын

This is a great video, full of many actionable, and doable techniques, principles, and advice to the aspiring artist! Thank you for taking the time to make this, Jeff!

@fernfearie 8 жыл бұрын

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!!

@ValkiriStudio 9 жыл бұрын

This is an amazing wake up call. Thank you for putting the time and effort into making this.

@guilhermecahu 5 жыл бұрын

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.

@clare3791 4 жыл бұрын

Glad I'm listening to this again, definitely sobering and will help me with my training. Thanks Jeff.

@rameshwortandukar 8 жыл бұрын

hi jeff! i paused the video in middle only to thank you................. now i on to the rest of it THANKYOU!

@BunBunMuzic 9 жыл бұрын

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...

@adrianvel14 9 жыл бұрын

This is one of the most inspirational videos I have ever seen. Thank you Jeff, for being there and sharing this with us.

@janineadrianareguengagomez3708 7 жыл бұрын

your words are a great inspiration. My dream since I was a child was to draw for a living but my family told me day after day that that was a waist of time. so when was time for me to go college I was forced to do entry exam for a university I didn't wanted and failed the exam twice. I loose all those years wondering what to do for my life and I decided to start my dream. I feel a big frustration every day for all the lost time but like you said I found an inspiring person who is teaching me in a way I learn something new everyday. I wish I didn't waste thatuch time but I hope with good training and love to art I can do what I want for a living.

@BigDaddyZakk420 7 жыл бұрын

Janine Adriana Reguenga gomez I hope you're able to achieve your dreams! : )

@caiosouzaart 9 жыл бұрын

Wow... That was amazing. One of the most helpful and inspireful speeches about studying and making art that I've ever heard. Thank you for that! Really.

@sofiasofia8726 3 жыл бұрын

Wow. I had goosebumps throughout the whole video. I believe all the information we receive comes to us at the right time... I am grateful that this time has come for me and that I came across this. Thank you, Jeffrey! Lots of respect to you.

@theinkpirate2710 4 жыл бұрын

I saw this video now, and after started taking art serious last year this is a real true brilliant video, because I love the hard work behind making art, very encouraging.

@BruceBLee 5 жыл бұрын

I am a student at Watts Atelier and it is amazing. Thank you for sharing your life's insight. It really helps!

@MetalWitchy 8 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much Jeff for making this video, it's amazing! I can relate to so many things you said! Wow! Wish I knew this information ages ago, but very happy I found you today :-) Thank Youuuuu!!!

@runningoffinstinct 6 жыл бұрын

God Bless you Jeff. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to develop and acquire this wisdom and then sit here and share it with us all. Truly life changing. I love your pragmatism. Not many people will manage your expectations as an artist and they live in La-La Land. This video is full of gems and I will return to it throughout my artists journey. I hope our paths cross.

@DivineEarthSchool 8 жыл бұрын

thank you Jeff, this really resonated with me! such great advice, looking forward to beginning the journey 😊

@NeroDeamon 9 жыл бұрын

this was really really great. i hope you put out more podcasts like this in the future. ill be joining the online program soon coz ive know watts atelier for quite a long time now. i just hope ill be able to one day travel and visit the atelier physically!!

@SPINERbg 9 жыл бұрын

Can't thank you enough for this! The timing is perfect!

@cynmillar1 8 жыл бұрын

Wow, beyond generous...thank you.

@WaSiLLy63 5 жыл бұрын

Ahhhhh! What a relief to hear the truth and the reality! I appreciated your wonderful communication skills which make you a great teacher! I love words and your words covered a lot of what I saw, heard and experienced in my art journey. I was drawn in to your words of "wired, repetition, settings goals, training, retention, accountability, etc." and not in that particular order :) I believe what you have said and revealed. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I applaud you and with whistles! :)

@multimediahelp1 7 жыл бұрын

I absolutely love this video, before watching this I already read the book "Mastery" by George Leonard. And Jeff basically extracted the fundamental information from his book. I really like to thank you for the motivational talk and indeed, a reality check.

@marquesmartinez730 7 жыл бұрын

This was incredibly helpful, just listened to this while doing a drawing, and its really a ton of great advice and insight on what it takes to be successful. I seriously love your super realistic approach, just telling it like it is cause we gotta realize if we wanna be great at this thing called art, its a journey, a looong journey that, hopefully, never ends.

@tonydambe 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for this Jeff. I've listened to this so many times and was just listening to it now while I was doing timed practice. You have an attitude that shows a spirit of practicality. People like to think of artists as weirdos or unstable psychos. But when you talk, you give the impression of someone who has a sound mind, is down to earth and articulate. You also don't sugar coat.

@mmafightart 5 жыл бұрын

i love putting Jeff's videos on why I create art. Its great to listen to. Very insightful and inspirational.

@ssj17gogeta111 8 жыл бұрын

This has been incredibly helpful and helped me make a decision that I'm not going to see through, thank you alot for putting your time and effort into making stuff like this. I feel that people may get stuck in what path to follow or where to head on but this has shed alot of light on it.

@jujubecarver3435 3 жыл бұрын

So amazed at the breadth of this talk--almost never is the spirit considered. Thank you for your hugely generous talk!

@user-eb1ul7ud2e 2 жыл бұрын

This was a great video. I love how Jeff presents his thoughts and reflections on life, and though they can sound prechery, his honesty and truth to his’ insights always show though. He is very inspiring.

@thatguy928 3 жыл бұрын

Guy’s a beast. I love his videos. The courses are worth it just for his attitude and insight into life, let alone his skill as a great artist. Thanks, Jeff!

@dkatz7430 2 жыл бұрын

Hi, did you take his online class?

@lilywhite8157 9 жыл бұрын

Thank you Jeff for making this video, many very important issues raised and very rarely talked to the students I have learned from you already thanks again

@denisegrossman3840 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this lecture/ conversation it is so thought provoking , for me as an entry level artist that is 3 years in, this is invaluable!!! I am recently retired and embarking on art as a 3rd career. I have a long way to go but I am enjoying the journey. Spirituality is at the heart of my atrraction to art, it has healed my life and I continue to learn and train.Thank you for speaking the challenges of having nasayers among you which are your loved ones that ignore your passion for making art. So priceless for me to hear this, touched my heart! Will check out your Atelier of the Arts. Blessings to you, Greatly appreciative.!! 💖💖

@rosimo61 8 жыл бұрын

Jeff Watts- Thank you, Most of what I already knew,but exactly what I needed to hear!

@elizabethmkern 6 жыл бұрын

I really enjoyed this highly genuine, encouraging and insightful video Jeff! Words of truth!

@seervisual7447 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this video Jeff, only a year into my artist journey and a lot more to go... cheers mate!

@ookpaia 9 жыл бұрын

It can't be put in words how important this speech is. Thank you so much.

@MyName56765 9 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! That's video is ray of light that showed me a way to a next stage! Good luck in all your work!

@shayneswenson 2 жыл бұрын

I come back and watch this several times a year. Thanks Jeff👊🏻

@Jelanuel 9 жыл бұрын

this is the most honest and passionate talk on the artistic career i`ver ever listened too. thank you for sharing the knowledge.

@isaacolander8291 3 жыл бұрын

I am very motivated. I like how you are straight to the point and really highlight the time and grit it takes to make it. Thank you.

@Halasaar 5 жыл бұрын

I love Watts Atelier I took online classes a couple years ago and it greatly improved my art and I will be coming back in a month or two I really recommend taking online classes or if you have the money come to California and take the in house classes. Thanks Jeff!

@AmBrOJordiArt 9 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much for that! It was meaningful and inspiring.

@hawraharianawala9712 8 жыл бұрын

Thank you Jeffery for a wonderful podcast It was reaffirming, passionate and really purposeful. Most art education is trying to make the art world more mysterious and ambiguous which is why your approach is a breath of fresh air.

@weepingangel8190 2 жыл бұрын

i love how you recomend the atelier ! its so honest and refreshing.

@dominatorN4 9 жыл бұрын

So glad I took the time to listen to this, it gives me a lot to think about, thank you very much for this video.

@chloecalloway1428 3 жыл бұрын

Incredible words. Thank you. I’ve been thrown into the fortunate situation of being able to start training full-time since moving to another country. I hope to eventually have the opportunity to train online with your atelier.

@Bopsterjazz Жыл бұрын

This is stuff I really needed to hear. I’ve always been a dabbler, knowing I love all different forms of art, and trying everything I could. Last year, my ex broke up with me because he found someone else. He did a lot of comparing me to them, but the words he said that won’t stop bouncing around my head were “You’re never going to make it as an artist. You’re lazy. You need to get your life together, grow up, and get a real job.” These words were a slap in the face. He gave up art to do software engineering. Something I also tried while I was with him. I hated it. The break up sent me on a self discovery path and as a result, I’ve become a lot more committed and focused. I enrolled in school and am currently taking classes in animation. I draw everyday. I read about craft a little everyday, but mostly to serve as inspiration to try new things. So, yeah, the break up sucked, but I’ve gained so much from it and I don’t feel like I would have had the time to dedicate to all of this if it wasn’t for that event.

@jessecobb8756 9 жыл бұрын

Truly great words of wisdom. I'm starting to love the word training.

@brianjacobs9760 Жыл бұрын

I really Love Jeffs way of looking at art in a serious way. I know he is the real thing because how he speaks about practice and repetition. anything worth while takes work. Jeff is the Future art instructor because he just tells the truth about being an artist--So refreshing

@cecec7102 7 жыл бұрын

this podcast had such an Impact on me that I couldn´´t describe properly. Mr. Watts, simply thanks. Thanks for reminding us of why we actually wanna take on this journey. Art is not just skill, it´s a philosophy and the only Thing I can truly see myself working in. I´m 17 and goddamn I feel like i could be the next Craig Mullins just through listening to your words. I will surely enroll in your Atelier, summer 2018. Because I really need to learn from you and your peers.

@EntertainmentDissection 9 жыл бұрын

I love your orientation videos. looking forward to trying out your online school during this summer break from university... also I'm probably going to join it for real afterwards. set a strict and disciplined program of drawing and sculpture every day , from 6 to 10 hours a day for life(3 hours of academic drawing at the atelier, 3 hours of watts atelier videos and exercises and 2 hours optional (either bargue drawing or more watts atelier) and 2 more of optional zbrush or traditional clay sculpture)... that's what your video just communicated to me... Passion and dedication is the key to mastery. and discipline is how you travel through that passion. Thank you :)

@RumoHasIt 3 жыл бұрын

My eyeballs shot open when you mentioned Harry Carmean, he and my father have been friends since I was a kid! He (my father) also went to Art Center in LA . This video was wonderful, and the extra mention of our friend was a special treat!

@belindahugheslifestyle Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for this advice, Jeffrey. It shines a light on so many things in education that have given me a wiggle in my middle, but I didn't know there were alternatives like the atelier system. I'm not ready for paid training yet, but have subscribed to add your channel to my resource library. Currently working in colored pencil on paper, doing landscapes. Namaste'.

@rtaber3065 2 жыл бұрын

"Visual information can only be retained through proper repetition, and that repetition has to be guided by somebody that's done it, knows how to do it, and what we call this is putting an eye in place. So when you go to a school, an atelier, you're basically leasing my eyeballs until yours see like mine." You're basically leasing my eyeballs until yours see like mine. That's a good quote to stick on the wall.

@Jumbodunkins 9 жыл бұрын

Another great video Jeff filled with tons of great information for artist of all levels.

@JFBArteist 9 жыл бұрын

This is full of good information and there's just one thing that I have experienced differently then is stated here. When I attended the San Francisco Academy of Art University there was no problem in getting a good teacher. All of the teachers are working professionals that have something good to teach to the students. Because of this the class subject is what is picked by the student whether they're going for a degree or for self enrichment.

@justminh1741 8 жыл бұрын

Thank you, I found you just in a right time, just decided to be a working artist after years and years wandering around with wrong jobs and wrong people. This is really helpful, to me. Wish I had heard this 10 years ago though :)

@santalisaq 9 жыл бұрын

Thank you... You are so amazing, you gave really good advice for everyone who loves art and wish to progress in this media.

@metaloutlander 9 жыл бұрын

The world's best animator and director Chuck Jones said every artist has 100,000 bad drawings in him, so get drawing.

@patdowart 8 жыл бұрын

This was a great video! As an artist I strive to be honest with myself and let that show through my work, and in the process of becoming a professional working artist I'm starting to see that some people want to change the way you create art in the hopes of making you more "marketable." I realize that you just have to be really good at what you do (uniquely) and I am positive that success is waiting.

@Baphalope 9 жыл бұрын

Listening while painting.. Incredible!!!!! Such wise words.. this shook me. Thank you for sharing!

@EmeralDQueenTV 4 жыл бұрын

Finally I see and hear someone with the honest truth about real life and becoming and artist, thank you! I grew up going to an Academy, I've started at a very young age when I was like 4 years old until I was 8, the best years of learning the real deal with Art. Everything I was though at a young age stay with me for ever and thanks to that I'm able to do what ever I want with my Art, sometimes is great sometimes is not but that is exactly what you've said, is a consistent and repetitive learning through life and your own personality that will make you go through this and become someone with skills. If you don't know what to do with your Art career listen to this gentleman he knows what he is talking about.

@adriengahery9471 3 жыл бұрын

I do see the value of such a video. As for the hard work itself, it requires a lot of focus to get through, but there is so much to unpack. Sobering thoughts, and an urge to getting to work! Thanks Mr Watts !

@sandycoffmansstudio731 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for the insight! I have never heard so much insight at one sitting! Bless you.

@gayesekula 5 жыл бұрын

Jeff, You are such an inspiration. Thank you for this video.

@ludwighettig5624 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I've been practicing for over 20 years. Alone and without guide. Everything you said is true.

@rosamente 3 жыл бұрын

I really appreciate your information. I think training under a much more developed artist is an incredibly useful way of increasing your skill. You are also really good at explaining. COngrats on your artwork and teaching methods

@christinegaeta2022 9 жыл бұрын

Jeff, what you shared in this training video, has brought into true perspective the meaning and value of the arts, and also the reality of what it takes and is required to achieve great heights of creativity. I loved the way you explained so precisely both the physical and spiritual aspects that are needed to blend together in this noble pursuit. I took notes on the books and authors you mentioned. GREAT JOB! Thank you...