Starting Out Artist: Your First Steps in the Art World

When talking about a starting out artist, someone who is just beginning to create visual art and explore their style, it helps to know the key pieces that shape the journey. Also important is digital art, art created using computers, tablets, or smartphones, which opens up fast ways to share work and earn money. Another core skill is oil painting, a traditional medium that teaches color mixing, layering, and brush control. Finally, sculpture, three‑dimensional work that teaches form, space, and material handling. These four entities intersect in many ways: a starting out artist learns basics, then expands into digital tools, traditional paint, and even 3‑D projects to build a well‑rounded practice.

What You’ll Need to Get Going

First, set up a simple workspace. A small table, decent lighting, and a few affordable supplies are enough. For digital art, a basic drawing tablet (even a budget-friendly one) paired with free software like Krita or GIMP gets you started without a huge expense. When you shift to oil painting, grab a starter set of colors—such as cadmium red, ultramarine blue, and yellow ochre—along with a few brushes and a palette. Don’t forget a container of linseed oil and a rag for cleaning.

Next, think about learning resources. YouTube channels that break down techniques in 5‑minute videos work great for visual learners. Websites like ArtStation showcase how professionals structure their portfolios, giving you a roadmap for where to aim. If you prefer reading, short guides on color theory, composition, and perspective will keep you moving forward without feeling overwhelmed.

Practice is the engine of progress. Set a tiny goal each day—sketch a quick figure, paint a small color study, or sculpt a simple shape from clay. The trick is consistency, not marathon sessions. Over a week you’ll see patterns: maybe you prefer bold digital lines, or you love the tactile feel of oil on canvas. Those preferences help you decide where to invest more time.

Networking also matters. Join local art meet‑ups in Pembrokeshire, pop into gallery openings, or hop onto online forums where other starting out artists share feedback. Real‑world connections can lead to commission opportunities, especially if you already have a digital portfolio ready to show.

Finally, think about how you’ll turn your hobby into income. The collection below includes posts on monetizing digital art, setting up prints, and navigating museum fees. Learning the business side early saves you headaches later and lets you focus on creating.

All this groundwork ties back to the core idea: a starting out artist builds a foundation across multiple mediums, uses simple tools, practices daily, and connects with a community. Below you’ll find curated articles that dive deeper into each of these steps, from mastering oil painting techniques to figuring out NFT sales for your digital pieces. Keep reading to turn your curiosity into real‑world skill and confidence.