Breaking the Rules: Working Fearlessly in Artistic Drawing

Art has always been that medium through which we may tap our feelings, thoughts, and creativity onto paper. But with traditional notions of artistic drawing comes a whole set of rules which might remind us that we should not innovate or that we simply cannot be as original as we'd want to. To unlock your full potential in drawing, you must break free from these constraints and learn to experiment. Here's how you could develop a fearless approach to drawing.

1. Take Mistakes Seriously
Perhaps the most liberating part of drawing creatively is knowing that errors are not failures but rather opportunities to explore and learn. Perfection is not necessary; you have to make errors. An errant line or an accidental splash of ink might result in the potential for great beauty. Learn to love these imperfections; they can guide your creativity. In fact, some of the best works occur in those moments of spontaneity.

2. Experiment with Mediums
Don't just stick to what you know. Try charcoal, pastels, watercolor, or digital painting. Sometimes, a combination of materials can lead to great discoveries. Try layering ink onto watercolors or collage elements into your drawings. These nuances can surprise you in their unique textures and depth, opening you to new dimensions and surfaces that define drawing.

3. Break Composition Rules
Most artists work within the confines of the rule of thirds, symmetry, and all the other established rules of composition. Sure, they have their place, but they also limit the creativity. Try drawing without the composition you were expecting. Let your subjects spill off the edges of the page or try using unorthodox perspectives. This openness can create dynamic and interestingly active compositions that grab the attention of the viewer.

4. Draw from the Unconscious
Instead of depending solely on observation, tap into the imagination and subconscious mind. Try to draw without a subject in mind. Doodle, scribble, or let your hand move freely across the page. This automatic drawing technique will help you reveal patterns and forms you may not consciously consider. Gradually, you can improve these spontaneous creations into more developed works.

5. Be Part of a Community
Interacting with other artists may free you from convention. Join local art groups or online forums and inspire each other to do more experimentation with your work. Sharing your artwork and getting feedback may also open up new perspective and ideas to risk in the practice of art. People around with a similar interest encourage an environment where creativity thrives.

6. Challenges
Challenges for yourself Push the boundaries. Challenge for example, decide to draw a number of portraits with only one line or only one color you work with. These challenges often take your creativity to new styles and techniques you probably would not have tried in other situations.

7. Let Yourself Play
Art should be fun! Make time for unhurried drawing sessions without your expectations. Allow yourself to play with ideas, colors and techniques without the concern of producing a finished piece. This will lighten the pressure of making an active contribution to the artistic journey, returning innovation to your drawing.

Conclusion
There is a world of possibilities opening up when there is a rule broken in the art of drawing. You are all right to tolerate mistakes, experiment with mediums, and let go to freely play around in order to develop a unique style that's really you. Remember that art is a matter of expression, not about perfection. So pull out the tools, forget those constraints, and play fearlessly. The discovery process often is more satisfying than the result.