How to Find Your Unique Art Style

Finding your own artistic style is an exciting journey that evolves over time. It’s not about forcing a signature look but rather about discovering what feels natural, inspiring, and enjoyable to you. If you’re wondering where to start, here are some practical steps to help define your unique art style.

1. Make a Lot of Art—Even Ugly Art!

One of the best ways to develop your style is simply by creating. Don’t be afraid to make “bad” art because every piece is a step toward refining your personal aesthetic. The more you create, the more patterns, themes, and techniques will emerge naturally.

2. Experiment Widely

Try out different colours, mediums, and even locations for making art. Whether it's digital or traditional, watercolour or acrylic, painting indoors or sketching outdoors—each variation will help you discover what excites you the most. Let curiosity lead the way!

3. Analyse and Refine Your Work

After completing about 10 pieces, take a step back and assess them as a collection. Ask yourself:

• What do I like about these works?
• What do I dislike?
• Do any common themes, colours, or subjects appear?
• Which techniques felt the most enjoyable?

This process will help you narrow your focus. Your style may be defined by subject matter (landscapes, abstracts, animals), a particular medium, or a combination of elements. Think of it as a recipe—blend the colours, textures, and themes that resonate with you the most.

4. Take an Art Challenge

A structured challenge, such as Peachtober, can be a fantastic way to explore and refine your style. By creating consistently within a set theme or prompt list, you’ll start to see what elements you naturally gravitate toward.

5. Create a Vision Board

Gather inspiration from artists you admire and compile a vision board—either on Pinterest or physically in a sketchbook. Pay attention to what draws you in: Is it a particular colour palette? Recurring themes? The use of bold lines or soft gradients? Identifying these elements can help inform your own creative choices.

6. Make Art That Excites You

Ultimately, your art style should reflect what you love. Don’t just replicate reference images—reinterpret them in a way that excites you. If a certain aspect of a piece catches your eye, amplify it! Your style is a fusion of influences, preferences, and experimentation.

Final Thoughts

Developing an art style isn’t about rushing to find a signature look—it’s about creating often, experimenting, and allowing your preferences to naturally shape your artistic voice. Keep exploring, stay curious, and most importantly, have fun with it!