Style question

[Phait]

Is style something that can be consciously developed, or is it just acquired? When I first saw Feng's work, I kind of wanted that style - but the other part of me didnt', because I'm very adamant about being unique or individual. The reason why I strongly dislike anime is because it's simply overdone.

I know what kind of skill that I want to reach as an artist, but basically I'm wondering if someone strives for a style, can they attain it - or is what they put out - their set style?

[sic1]

hey Phait,

I think ultimately everyone will have their own unique style. I do believe that you can pick up bits and pieces of others' styles and apply them to your own art. (Even subconsciously). When I first saw bridgman's sketches, I fell in love. Now in my own sketches, I can see reminence (sp?) of his curves and feel. Perhaps it is my own mind seeing those things, and they are minor.

If you truly want to attain at least, parts of someone's style, I surely wouldn't put it past you.

[Jens]

I would say stay away from copying someone elses non-ref/cartoon pictures too much. I myself started drawing manga and after a while (mmh it was only 2 months) I realized I wanned somthing more unique. You wouldn't believe how long it took to get rid of the influence, I would always make my eyes to big and my noses to pointy.
The things Sic mentions are absolutely correct. Eventually your style will come to you and it will be influenced by everything around you.

As much as you like a certain style don't be a slave to it as it will limit your artistic development.

You also need to get your feet on the ground and stop dreaming from time to time. If you want to achief some skill and be good you'll have to work really hard and draw every day. Every day does not mean draw one guy with a sword or one demon, but page after page full of studies and drawings

[WildSpruceMoose]

Style in my opinion is developed not by yourself, but by the artists who influence you...acquired...

I personally have been influenced mostly by Blizzard Entertainment, Todd McFarlene(sp? haven't spelled his name in a long time), comics, most artists on this site. That doesn't mean its THEIR style...you just acquire bits and pieces. I would say style is over 80% acquired and a very small percentage actually developed solitarily by yourself.

There will always, ofcourse be certain shapes/lighting techniques etc. which may be invented by yourself, which are more pleasing to your own eye. This would make up the rest of one's "style".