art – Page 2 – Andrew Sharp Fantasy Author

Want to stand out?

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it’s a no-win position. Even if you succeed, you’ll be indistinguishable from all the other mimics out there. Develop your own style, whether that is as a writer or an artist. When you craft and create, find yourself. However, there is no magical tip, idea, trick, orContinue reading “Want to stand out?”

Writers have to write everyday

Many famous writers give this advice, but it’s wrong. However, writing regularly and improving your writing skills is a good habit to form. I need to write several times a week, otherwise I might lose the flow of my book. I have a life outside my writing and so cannot commit to every day, butContinue reading “Writers have to write everyday”

Simplify your writing

“If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, you don’t understand it yourself.” – Albert Einstein. Verbosity is not the key, but neither is simple, dumb writing. Your voice needs to read easily, but influence and convey the meaning. But not in every detail, as you need to let the reader’s own mind fill inContinue reading “Simplify your writing”

Writing and art – talent Vs skill

Most thoughts are that if you are not a genius or gifted at writing or art, then you will never be successful. Stephen King started practicing his craft before he was ten years old. Pablo Picasso started painting when he was seven. They practiced and did the doing. The more you write and create, theContinue reading “Writing and art – talent Vs skill”

Embrace failure as a writer and/or artist

One thing I agree with, that nearly all the successful writers say, is that you must learn to handle criticism, and face rejection and failure. Whether you’re rejected by an agent, fail to get a publishing deal, or have your stories, pitches, art, or poems rejected by publications, you must remember that failure is anContinue reading “Embrace failure as a writer and/or artist”

Art criticism

Being an abstract artist I tell people I just throw paint on a canvas, but in truth I think carefully about my work. I used to paint over the ones I considered failed or ugly, but my wife advised me to keep them all and now I do. She likes some that I think areContinue reading “Art criticism”