In a Search for Knowledge

「𝘗𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵」 To make art better, Learn about art. 📜 Adventure log of art & animation studies 📚

[lycoris-treehouse]

Review "Infusing Stylized Characters With Distinct Moods" by Seoji 📑

I prefer targeted classes focused on single topic so one can learn all ins-and-outs. Took a couple extremely helpful ones and already reviewed some, but to think of a favorite class, one instructor stands out for me and it's Seoji. Her course covering color expression & stylization is a gem, very thoughtful & easy to understand explanations with lots of helpful depictions and exercises, everything to pave the way for improvement!

Thanks to it I was able to learn more clearly and in detail about the concept of stylization which Seoji strongly emphasizes on. Given my drawing style based in naturalistic anatomy (lineless semirealism), I was looking for ways to loosen it up. Observation analysis & art style studies I did by myself gave its results, but learning theory behind style expressions, such as how to distort, simplify and exaggerate to bring out the charm did wonders! Before I relied on intuition & preferences when it came to stylization, so acquiring such useful knowledge gave me tools to capture all that with intention. My line work significantly improved — quick, precise and delicate lines became my second nature. What's been bugging me for some time got answers both in theory and practice, likewise reorganized what I already knew and broaden my understanding.

Besides, class resolved my question about how to transfer vibrant watercolor pencil-like color choices into digital art, as that's my main traditional medium hence wanted preserve those drawing techniques. Every part of illustration process is demonstrated in detail which is noticeable strength. Truly gained a lot from illustration walk-through, Seoji's art has lively charm which I prefer in my art style. Striking, bouncy, dynamic, etc., right? A scene from an animation, what's here not to adore! Curriculum perfectly aligned with my goals, all boxes checked

I chose second installment given its diving into more advanced level and was more than satisfied with what I got:

Seoji uses color similarly to paint mixing and utilizes watercolor techniques emphasizing on mindful coloring, making the most of skill based approach

Teaching is to-the-point practical and straightforward with in-depth explanation on what stands behind particular choices and lots of hands-on applications, open to implementation into other styles

From line flow and stylization of photos to practicing movement & poses and what to pay attention at lighting & coloring phase to express mood and adding effects & final adjustments, this class is overflowing with valuable tips

Some class notes and assignments (my take following example by utilizing Seoji's techniques):

Honesty, I had access to the class for 10 day pass from event over a year ago, but Seoji's guidance had probably the most impact on how I draw now. My lecture notes were full but all given information got well internalized and easily applicable right away. It impressed me when I revised class notebook for review just how much of things I formed a habit to make use of trace back to this course teachings. Since I'm quite found of Seoji's work, I was thrilled to be able to attend the class and had a blast learning from her! 10 out of 10, extremely pleased, thankful it exists, recommend with passion

Illustrator, Seoji 2

Get exclusive tips and insights into Stylized Character designs from illustrator Seoji

[lycoris-treehouse]

Review "Visual Development Skills For Bringing Animation to Life" by Hyesung Park 📑

Concept Art & Visual Development are great point of interest as it takes an idea, gives it visual representation and shapes the final look of any creative project

That said, this course gives you everything needed to be able to do it yourself and incorporate your own unique creative vision using various elements of art. The class is full of practical insight from renowned Art Director who knows his work well and shares that knowledge with you through both theory and direct practice. In each video instructor gives a brief on the current topic and continues with in-depth explanation on how to implement it into artwork with hands-on exercises. He also emphasizes on analize & mindful usage of references to take the most of it. That's why going into the class you already have to be well acquainted with the art fundamentals as Hyesung takes each of them and shows how to add your own individual touch so you can convey exactly what you're trying to depict. He isn't telling that things should to be done in certain ways instead showing possible ways to achieve certain outcome. Hence the main takeout is rather how to do conscious choices during the process depending on what you're trying to express in the art piece you're working on.

To achieve that instructor leads you all the way from how individually composition, stylization, perspective, values, depth, color and texture used to depict different aspects of the drawing to comprehensive understanding of how those elements worth together in the whole picture in order to capture wide range of emotions forming the narrative. Summing up, course supplies you with all elements that help bring idea from your head to life exactly how imagined with clear focus on story and visual appeal

Few exercises from the class (my take following instructors' examples):

Followed the class with pleasure, information is well put and gave me cohesive idea on leverage of establishing overall direction & creating immersing atmosphere. As a neat bonus, Hyesung Park shared absolutely lovely brushpack with very texturish, traditional feel (painterly, pencilish etc) in class materials

Art Director, Hyesung Park

Get exclusive tips and insights from Art Director Hyesung Park throughout 20 online classes.

[lycoris-treehouse]

I'm figuring out this thing, and I want to share how I did it 📝

The essence of studying is the sense of improvement felt the moment you learn something you didn't know, apply it and see your drawings improve.

The main idea of this blog is to organize my studies in one place, and maintain a public log to record my experiences with some art courses I’ve taken. A visual journal of sorts to keep track of skill development and share notes. Also so people can find it through search engines, given my reviews can be of help to others as well. I do have some teaching experience outside of art and am quite sure about my capability to evaluate the quality of instruction and whether a class offered good value. Follow if you're interested in seeing others' studies or perhaps find my thoughts & opinions on art resources useful, I suppose.

Never underestimate studies, and you will be surprised with advancement and enjoyment in your art over time 🖼️