Hello, fellow Deviants! With the creation of this fancypants user-accessible News system, I've decided to start an advice column. There seem to be a lot of basic problems and worries here on deviantART regarding issues like flaming, responding to critique, improving one's art, and more. I'll be addressing these on a weekly or bi-weekly basis as I receive requests for topics or think them up myself from issues brought up in the forums.

Deviants who would like advice on an issue can send me a Note with their question and whether they wish to be credited by their username or an alias ("Worried in Washington" or something like that).

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This week I am discussing five definite fool-proof ways to improve your art skill. Many Deviants complain that they aren't good enough, but fishing for compliments won't make you better. However, here are a few things that will:

1. Practice. This should be a no-brainer, but you won't improve if you don't practice a lot. Becoming a skilled artist does not come from sitting down and watching TV all day. Doodling during classes you don't like doesn't really count; go away from distractions and draw for a solid hour or so. Do this every day if you can, but even a few times a week will do. The more you practice, the better you get!

2. Copy. I can hear the gasps now. "But that's art theft!" No, it isn't. It's perfectly acceptable to copy the work of master artists or even just artists you admire. Studies of masters like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci have long been the basis of learning art in many art schools. Plus, being able to copy a flat image is an important skill. If you can't copy from a flat picture, you'll have a really hard time doing my next recommendation.

3. Draw from life. Admittedly, this is hard to learn. It takes a lot of practice to draw well from life. It's worth it, though. You pick up tiny details in objects that you wouldn't otherwise notice, and you can see how the anatomy of living things fits together. It's not just for realistic artists. In gaining a better understanding of the real world, it's easier to draw believable cartoons and fantasy.

4. Pay attention to critique. Vague nonsense like "his leg is a bit off" is usually unhelpful, but critique usually gives you some insight on where you can improve in future artwork. Even rudely-phrased or nitpicky critiques can be helpful, but the best critiques are those that offer suggestions for improvement. Ask for suggestions if the critic hasn't provided any.

5. Mix it up. Don't limit yourself to drawing in one strict style. Drawing only anime will only ensure that you're good at copying an anime style and using pre-made visual shortcuts. Drawing a wide variety of styles--not just realism or cartoons, but also the styles of artists like Salvador Dali, Keith Haring, and other 20th century artists--will help you develop versatility and skill in many different techniques. Don't be scared to experiment. That's where personal styles come from.

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I hope I've been of help. Remember, send me a Note if you have an idea for another topic for me to discuss. See you next week!