Jeremiah by Michelangelo Buonarroti, Sistine Chapel, 1511.

	Rondanini Pieta by Michelangelo, 1564.

I think the affinity that I have for art is definitely inborn. Art isn’t something I grew up with or was tutored in, so when I stumbled upon it on my own, something clicked. The natural ability to draw and paint is ingrained in some people, too. But not all of us are gifted with an innate artistic sense, and I don’t think talent cancels out the equally important willingness and desire to steep yourself in and truly perfect your craft.

Some artists have egos and some even have enough talent for them to believe their work is heaven-sent—a panacea that can change the world. Me? I’ve never felt more human than when I’m drawing or painting. That’s when I feel truly humble, as I fumble and grope for ways of capturing the life, atmosphere, movement, and excitement of the world around me in a drawing or painting. But don’t get me wrong—it is an impassioned struggle, a glorious goal worth reaching for.

	One of Michelangelo's sketches for figures in the Sistine Chapel.

Whenever I pick up a pencil or brush, I think of Michelangelo. He was gifted beyond belief and is at the zenith of Western art, but his life wasn’t easy—it set the precedent for the kind of mental anguish and doubt that put truth to the term “tortured artist.” He constantly felt that his hands could never attain what he saw in his mind’s eye. No matter how much arrogance and umbrage he displayed in public, he was plagued by the same indecision and doubt that I feel when I’m really committed to a project but am not quite sure if it is going to come together the way I hope.

That’s why I make it a point of seeking out new inspiration and quality art instruction. Without either of these, you can’t hope to fully utilize the talent and skill you have. Draw with Confidence is a DVD built on David Kitler’s years of teaching nature and wildlife drawing. He delves into creating depth, value shifts, types, and positioning parts in relation to a whole with the same high level of insight and detail. Quick Studies in Oils is another good starting point if you aren’t sure how to bring together your creative abilities and technical skills. It’s an engaging DVD that can provoke new ideas and confidence with brushstrokes and paint manipulation, which are both key to making significant breakthroughs in your work. 

---