Is It Possible to Learn Sculpting, Painting, Drawing, Calligraphy, Wood Engraving, Origami, and Printmaking from Self-Help Books?

The answer is a resounding affirmative! While there is no substitute for hands-on experience, reading self-help books can be an invaluable resource for artists looking to develop their skills without formal training.

My Journey

This is what I did with my drawing skills: I had no formal training, yet people always say that my drawings and paintings are flattering. I also picked up wood working techniques. How is that possible? Through a passion ignited inside of me that just continued with each drawing. This only fueled my appetite and thirst for more knowledge, and so I went online, and there was a wealth of information available to help me improve and explore new creative avenues.

The Power of Mental Thinking

If you don’t engage in this kind of mental thinking on any of your creative works, you might not pursue it because the work will only appear as work with no sense of purpose. However, there is a danger: most people give up too easily. You need to give yourself time and cross this initial hurdle. I cannot teach you these methods as they are internal to me, but you need a real sense of intention and dedication.

Limiting Beliefs and Realities

It’s possible but unlikely to learn everything solely from self-help books. You have to be hands-on in your learning journey. However, think of this: did Da Vinci have a self-help book on art? The answer is no, but he certainly had a thirst for knowledge and a keen eye for observation that he honed through hands-on experience and continuous exploration.

DIY Art Techniques at Home

The biggest dilemma is deciding where to start. With the advent of YouTube, it’s incredibly easy to access a wealth of information without leaving your studio. You can even order takeout! It can get expensive, so I recommend starting simply with a basic materials set. Drawing in pages of old books with sharpie ink and flow pens from Staples. Use Crayola supplies for painting until you know what you like. Paper mache for sculpting, and air-drying clay is wonderful. Modge Podge for collage with torn magazine pieces, hardware attachment assemblage, or found items. The key is to start small and build from there.