The Visual Scholar

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty Eighth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. What if having a million amazing ideas for your project is actually the thing that's killing it? Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- This episode challenges the common artistic impulse to create elaborate worlds filled with countless creatures, characters, and concepts. The discussion examines why having "a million monsters" often creates noise rather than signal, and explores how constraint and focus can lead to more impactful creative projects. The episode draws from the tension between Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Marvel Comics history to illustrate the difference between creative execution and editorial vision. It explores how the elevator pitch mentality from Hollywood applies to personal artistic projects, using Star Wars as an example of how one clear core idea can anchor an entire universe. The argument centers on the principle that artistic projects need a single, easily communicable hook that people can understand and share, rather than an overwhelming collection of interesting elements. — Chapters CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 01:06 Welcome 02:23 The Million Monster Problem 06:11 Why Clear Signal Beats Creative Chaos 16:29 The Stan Lee vs Jack Kirby Lesson 28:52 Pick One Idea and Go Deeper 35:40 The Analytical Takeaway 37:41 The Simple Takeaway 37:48 The Practical Takeaway 40:39 The Philosophical Takeaway 44:11 Outro — --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty Seventh Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Ever feel like you're doing creativity "wrong" because your process doesn't match what the experts recommend? Lets talk about developing your own Worldbuilding Process... Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- In this episode, I dive deep into finding your unique creative process for world-building and storytelling. As someone who's been a professional artist for over 20 years, I've learned that while there's plenty of advice out there on "the right way" to create, what truly matters is discovering YOUR way. I explore how different creators approach their work - from visual directors like James Cameron who start with powerful images (like the T-800 emerging from flames in a fever dream), to writers who begin with character perspectives, to interactive designers who focus on player experiences. What I've discovered through my own journey is that creative processes are inherently messy and often illogical. When creating my fantasy comic, I struggled following traditional writing advice until I realized my process worked better starting with character visuals first, then developing stories around them. I also found that writing from each character's first-person perspective helped me understand their motivations and create authentic conflict. The key insight is that constraints and limitations often fuel creativity rather than hinder it - so don't be afraid to experiment with your own "weird" methods. Your unique creative approach isn't something you'll find in books; it's something you'll discover through practice, experimentation, and embracing your natural tendencies. — CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 01:12 Welcome 02:28 The Importance of YOUR Creative Process 03:31 How Are Great Things Made? 10:35 Creative Process Needs a Focus 14:31 Anchoring Your Ideas 19:06 The Journey of Discovering Your Process 27:33 Analytical Takeaway 29:18 Simple Takeaway 29:47 Practical Takeaway 31:44 Philosophical Takeaway 34:41 Out — --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty Sixth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Are you focusing too much on Lore or too much on Story? Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- In this video, I break down one of the biggest challenges artists face when creating fantastical worlds: balancing lore-building with storytelling. After 20+ years as a professional artist, I've seen how easy it is to fall into either spending too much time developing intricate world details without purpose, or rushing into stories that lack depth and unique characteristics. The real magic happens when these two elements work together harmoniously. I explore how effective lore provides coherency and limitations that actually enhance dramatic tension rather than restrict it. Whether it's how the Force works in Star Wars or magic functions in Harry Potter, these rules become essential plot points that drive character development and narrative arcs. The best creative works use their unique world elements to create situations that couldn't exist any other way. When developing your own artistic projects, focus on creating environments, creatures, and systems that naturally generate dramatic tension and compelling character interactions. This approach will take your world-building to another level, making your stories resonate with audiences on a deeper level. — CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 01:35 Welcome 02:51 Preface 04:55 Why Is This An Important Discussion To Have? 10:29 What is "Lore" 17:43 What is 'Story' 22:58 The Power of Combining Lore and Story 28:11 The Analytical Takeaway 30:14 The Simple Takeaway 30:51 The Practical Takeaway 33:43 The Philosophical Takeaway 36:12 Out — --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty Fifth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Lets talk about the power of worldbuilding for artists. Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- In this video, I explore the often overlooked value of world building as a fundamental creative muscle for artists of all types - not just storytellers. I explain how developing world building skills adds depth, nuance, and authenticity to your art that technical craft alone cannot achieve. When we understand the "why" behind what we're creating—whether it's who our characters are, where they come from, or how the environments we draw were built—our art becomes more compelling and relatable, even at the sketch stage. I break down three key benefits of strengthening your world building abilities: it solves the "what do I draw" problem by giving you direction and purpose; it helps you create more unique, nuanced ideas by encouraging deeper exploration; and it helps you connect with your audience by providing context they can relate to. Just like actors need authentic costumes and sets to embody characters convincingly, artists need to understand the worlds they're depicting to make them feel real. The more you understand your world's details, the easier it becomes to communicate unspoken elements through your art in a way that resonates with viewers. — CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 01:01 Welcome 02:17 The Importance of Worldbuilding 05:10 How Can Worldbuilding Help Artists? 12:49 Creating More Unique Ideas 23:49 Worldbuilding and Story 33:17 The Analytical Takeaway 34:29 The Simple Takeaway 35:00 The Practical Takeaway 40:11 The Philosophical Takeaway 41:18 Out — --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty Forth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Artists who build successful careers aren't just talented - they've developed a clear, consistent presence that makes their work instantly recognizable. Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- Description In this episode, I explore the concept of "presence" - how successful artists develop a recognizable identity that makes their work instantly identifiable and shareable. While artists naturally love experimenting with different styles and mediums, building a successful career often means finding your unique signal and consistently amplifying it over time. Creating presence means developing a clear artistic "character" that people can easily describe to others - "this artist does this type of work and is known for this specific thing." It's about making yourself easily recognizable and understood in a crowded marketplace. This doesn't mean you can't evolve, but the consistency helps people connect with your work more deeply and remember you. I share my own journey of flip-flopping between styles and how my career gained momentum when I finally committed to a consistent direction. Building presence is a long game - it might take 3-7 years to see significant results - but the payoff is that your career starts rolling downhill like a snowball rather than feeling like you're pushing a boulder uphill. Successful presence comes from clarity and strategic repetition, making it easier for people to discover, connect with, and share your work. — 00:00 Intro 02:11 Welcome 03:27 Presence & Impact Framework Recap 15:03 Why We Avoid Building A Presence 23:31 What Does A Successful Presence Mean? 39:03 Play The Long Game: Presence Takes Time 52:12 The Analtical Takeaway 53:33 The Simple Takeaway 53:57 The Practical Takeaway 55:17 The Philosophical Takeaway 59:12 Out — --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty Third Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. In a world where everyone's employing every attention-grabbing trick imaginable, your artistic success doesn't come from adding more techniques—it comes from having the clarity and courage to focus only on those that truly amplify your authentic voice. Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- In this episode of The Visual Scholar, I dive deep into how artists can amplify their unique style and message in today's oversaturated attention economy. I explore three distinct categories of attention-grabbing techniques: biological markers (like bright colors and contrast that appeal to our primal instincts), illustration theory (composition principles developed over centuries), and narrative structures (story elements that naturally hook viewers). The key insight isn't adding more techniques, but rather identifying which specific approaches genuinely amplify your authentic message while having the courage to remove those that don't serve your artistic voice – even if they're objectively "good" techniques. I share my own journey of realizing that fan art, dynamic superhero poses, and hyper-detailed rendering weren't authentic to my artistic voice, despite being pushed as "essential" in the comic book world. What worked better for me was focusing on storytelling, creating detailed scenes with multiple characters, and building fantastical worlds. This clarity allowed me to stop spinning my wheels on skills that weren't serving my vision and instead develop the specific techniques that amplified my unique artistic voice. When you align your genuine interests with your creative output and find people who resonate with that authentic voice, everything becomes more enjoyable and success snowballs rather than feeling like an uphill battle. — 00:00 Intro 02:11 Welcome 03:26 Preface 10:48 The Different Categories of Impact and Attention 33:19 Which Methods Should YOU Use? 37:35 Focusing... And Giving Up On Stuff That Works 44:21 The Analytical 46:17 The Simple Takeaway 46:34 The Practical Takeaway 48:34 The Philosophical Takeaway 52:45 Out — --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty Second Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk about finding your artistic signal - developing a unique voice in a world that pushes conformity. This expands upon a video I did over at The Drawing Codex channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYGJuvl4bOk Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- In this episode, I explore why artists often get trapped making art for others rather than developing their own authentic style. Using a sound metaphor, I explain how finding your "signal" (your unique artistic voice) should come before amplifying it with "volume" (technical skills and attention-grabbing techniques). I discuss how our educational systems and industry structures often prioritize making artists fit into production pipelines rather than helping them discover what makes them unique. From early illustration jobs to modern concept art workflows, we've been trained to sublimate our personal style to serve commercial needs. This training creates formulaic approaches that, ironically, are now being replicated by AI systems. The greatest value you can offer as an artist is something that can't be replicated - your unique perspective and voice. While technical skills matter, they should amplify your message rather than replace it. When you examine artists with enduring careers, you'll notice they developed a clear signal first, then found ways to amplify it appropriately for their audience. Finding your signal isn't about verbal articulation - it's about discovering something ephemeral that comes through in your work. It requires stepping back from seeking approval and instead focusing on what genuinely interests you. This might mean temporarily turning down the "volume" on technical impressiveness to better hear your authentic voice. I see this becoming increasingly important in our AI-driven future. While algorithms can replicate formulaic approaches to art, they struggle with authentic perspective and non-verbal expression. Your unique viewpoint - something machines can't replicate because they operate within the constraints of language - will become your greatest asset. This journey isn't straightforward - the search itself shapes your voice. The challenges you overcome while discovering your signal become part of what makes your perspective valuable. Rather than seeking shortcuts, embrace this process of discovery as part of developing your authentic artistic voice. Remember: before worrying about making people look at your art, first determine what you want them to see. Your unique signal, consistently delivered over time, is what will ultimately create lasting connection with your audience. --- CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 01:31 Welcome 02:48 The Challenge Of Finding Your Style 07:39 The Value of Having a Point of View 20:15 What Is Your "Signal" 30:30 How To Find "Your" Signal 37:03 The Analytical Takeaway 41:52 The Simple Takeaway 42:12 The Practical Takeaway 46:31 The Philosophical Takeaway 48:03 Out! --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Forty First Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk about how to build your artistic voice while getting attention - a delicate balance between being unique and being noticed. This expands upon a video I did over at The Drawing Codex channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYGJuvl4bOk Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- In this video, I use a sound and music metaphor to explore how artists can develop their work. I break this down into three key elements: signal, volume, and presence. Your signal is your unique artistic voice - what makes your work distinctly yours. While this signal might start quiet, it's crucial to identify and nurture it rather than immediately trying to amplify it. Volume represents how you amplify that signal using attention-getting tools. Just like with music, different styles need different levels of amplification. This could involve contrast, composition, color theory, or even elements like dramatic tension and storytelling. The key is finding the right volume that enhances your signal without drowning it out. I discuss how in today's AI-driven world, being unique is more valuable than ever. While AI can replicate trends and formulas for getting attention, it can't replicate a strong personal point of view. This makes developing your unique signal increasingly important. The final element, presence, is about consistency and building recognition over time. Many artists discover their unique combination of signal and volume but then abandon it, chasing trends or fighting boredom. Yet it's often this consistency that builds lasting impact. The real challenge is not just making noise in a world full of distractions, but turning up the volume on your own unique signal. While tools for getting attention are important - from composition to color theory to storytelling - they should amplify your voice rather than replace it. Remember: you don't need to scream to be heard. Sometimes a clear, consistent signal can cut through the noise more effectively than trying to be the loudest voice in the room. --- CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 00:55 Welcome 02:12 The Signal | Volume | Presence - Framework 18:30 The Traps: Why Having A Plan Here Is Important 26:19 The Value Of Style Going Forwards 32:11 The Analytical Takeaway 33:41 The Simple Takeaway 33:52 The Practical Takeaway 35:14 The Philosophical Takeaway 38:42 Out --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Fortieth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk about the dangers of being one dimensional in your character design! Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- In this video, I delve into the complexities of character design, exploring the contrast between visual representation and character development through actions. As artists, we're often taught to make characters look like who they are, emphasizing clear, exaggerated visual cues. However, in writing, it's the actions a character takes that truly define them, sometimes conflicting with their outward appearance. I discuss how these differing approaches can clash and how understanding both the external and internal aspects of character can lead to more nuanced and compelling designs. By examining examples like Tyrion Lannister from "Game of Thrones," Darth Vader from "Star Wars," and Long John Silver from "Treasure Island," I highlight how characters with contrasting appearances and motivations captivate audiences. Whether you're designing your own characters or aiming to deepen your storytelling, this video offers insights into balancing clarity with complexity. Join me as I unpack these concepts to help you create characters that resonate on a deeper level with your audience. --- CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 01:39 Welcome 02:04 Are There Problems With General Character Design Advice? 06:04 Complexity and Duality of Great Characters 14:50 The Benefit of Being Basic... 20:23 The Dangers of Being a Cog in The Machine... 24:00 The Analytical Takeaway 27:05 The Simple Takeaway 27:19 The Practical Takeaway 31:20 The Philosophical Takeaway 35:11 Out... Plus The Mona Lisa --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Thirty Ninth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk about how creative restraint can actually help your art project! Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- Often, we think unlimited options and total creative freedom are what we need, but in reality, constraints and creative restrictions are essential. Without them, projects can lose focus and fail to materialize into something great. By imposing limitations on ourselves—like deadlines, budgets, or specific genres—we can spark our creativity and produce more interesting work. I discuss how starting with simple, even generic ideas can lead to unique and innovative outcomes. Working with others and adhering to briefs has often pushed me to develop better solutions than when I had complete freedom. Adding constraints helps define our projects and challenges us to think more deeply, turning vague concepts into tangible creations. I encourage you to consider how constraints have affected your own creative process. Reflect on times when you've felt inspired versus when you've faced a blank page with infinite possibilities. By embracing limitations, we can unlock our full creative potential and bring our ideas to life. --- CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 02:31 Welcome 04:55 The Problem With an Infinity of ideas 12:00 The Utility of Simple Ideas 18:54 How To Apply Constraints 24:56 The Analytical Takeaway 26:40 The Simple Takeaway 26:57 The Practical Takeaway 29:58 The Philosophical Takeaway 33:26 Out! --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Thirty Eighth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk about how long it takes to reach the mythical 'pro' level of art. This concept is something many people ask me about. And it's one of those markers that many of us consider to be really important. But it's also a moving target, and is not always as significant as people make it out to be. So in this episode I am going to unpack some of the considerations around improving your art and getting to a good level of skill... and how long it takes. Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- --DURATION TO REACH PROFESSIONAL LEVEL IN ART PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: It took me about 10 years to reach a professional level, starting from high school. This journey included navigating through various educational paths and job experiences. GENERAL OBSERVATION: For students in structured educational settings, such as colleges, it generally takes about three to four years to build foundational skills, with additional time needed to refine skills to industry standards. --COMMON TRAPS IN LEARNING ART EARLY DISILLUSIONMENT: Many artists become discouraged by the slow visible progress and complex skill acquisition, which can extend the learning period. INCONSISTENCY: Fluctuations in learning intensity and focus can hinder steady progress. Artists often experience periods where skills seem to regress due to new challenges or advanced techniques. --PACING YOUR ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT SETTING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS: Understanding that becoming proficient takes years is crucial to maintaining motivation and persistence. CONSISTENT PRACTICE: Regular practice and application of skills are essential for continuous improvement and avoiding long stagnant periods. --SPEEDRUN STRATEGY FOR ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT FOCUSED SKILL DEVELOPMENT: Concentrate on the specific skills that are directly relevant to your desired area of professional art. This approach minimizes wasted effort on unnecessary breadth. AVOIDING OVER-DIVERSIFICATION: While exploring different artistic styles and mediums can be enriching, it can also distract from developing the depth needed for professional work. --- CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 02:28 Welcome 02:50 Here's the Outline for this Episode! 06:34 How Long It Took Me To Get To A Professional Level 18:54 How Long It Can Take Students Now... 25:42 What Are The Traps That Cost You Time? 46:09 The Secrets To Pacing Yourself 56:29 The Speedrun Playbook... 1:05:20 The Analytical Takeaway 1:06:32 The Simple Takeaway 1:07:25 The Practical Takeaway 1:09:30 The Philosophical Takeaway 1:15:12 Out! --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Thirty Seventh Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk overcoming procrastination as artists! I think there are a few things which are really unique and interesting about procrastination and how it relates to the creative process. Personally I dealt with a lot of procrastination issues early on in my career. Both while learning to draw as a self taught artists... and also when I started to work for other people and I had to deal with deadlines and expectations. Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- This episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast addresses the common challenge of procrastination among artists, a significant barrier to productivity and creative output. I explore the various dimensions of procrastination from psychological, philosophical, and practical perspectives. The discussion centers on my personal struggles with procrastination, insights into the complex nature of this issue, and strategies I found effective in overcoming it. I delve into the roots of procrastination, highlighting how cultural and educational systems shape our views on time management and productivity. The episode emphasizes the importance of developing good habits to enhance productivity and combat procrastination. I share three specific strategies that helped me personally to manage and eventually minimize my procrastination tendencies. Throughout, I stress the importance of understanding procrastination not just as a hindrance but as a complex phenomenon that can offer insights into one's creative process and mindset. The goal is to equip artists with the tools and understanding needed to address procrastination head-on, enhancing their ability to consistently create and meet their artistic goals. --- CHAPTERS: 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:16 Welcome 00:02:38 Why We Often View Procrastination From The Wrong Angle 00:08:20 What Even IS Procrastination... What Is Happening? 00:23:28 Figuring Out Your Success Metrics 00:38:42 Tactics For Epic long Term Procrastination 00:51:02 TakeAways 00:51:14 The Analytical Takeaway 00:55:14 The Simple Takeaway 00:55:59 The Practical Takeaway 00:59:54 The Philosophical Takeaway 01:02:41 Out! --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Thirty Sixth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk Adobe... There is a lot of drama and outrage aimed at Adobe. I normally stay away from this stuff on the Visual Scholar... But people often ask for my opinion as I do use Adobe products, and teach people how to use them. So this episode is dedicated to my thoughts on the future of Photoshop. But as you know if you have been following this show, it won't be simple, and I will weave in some more interesting topics. I want to walk though: 1 What we should expect from Software as artists 2 What can we learn by looking closer at Adobe Inc 3 What Ethics, Morality, Publicly traded companies... and AI say about the future of Customer/Product Symbiosis. So yeah... This is a long form essay. That no one really asked for. But if you want to rise above the noise and outrage FUD... strap in! CHAPTERS: 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:03 Welcome 00:03:28 What's My Take On This? 00:07:07 What Good Creative Software Needs To Be... The Dangers of Switching 00:08:45 That Time I Gave Up Photoshop For Corel Painter... 00:14:56 Reliability... 00:15:33 Learning & Community 00:16:55 Different Artists Need Different Features... Pro Vs The Rest 00:19:06 Professional Features (That Most People Don't Care About) 00:20:06 Production Integration 00:21:16 Chameleon: Photoshop Can Be Many Things 00:23:27 Extensibility 00:26:51 Real Professional Reliability 00:30:03 Speeed 00:32:03 TLDR: Bugs And Tech Hurdles Can Ruin Your Art Flow 00:33:11 What About Adobe As A Company (Evil INC) 00:33:50 The History... Aggressive Monopoly 00:35:22 Adobe The Dinosaur (Legacy Software and Legacy Attitude) 00:38:19 Adobe Is Struggling To Be A Modern SAAS Company 00:39:15 Publicly Traded Companies Can't Take Care Of Their Customers. 00:39:58 The Silicon Valley Hype Cycle 00:41:17 Symbiosis: How Good Software Is Made 00:43:24 The Protopian Ideal 00:44:58 Incentives: It's Not A Matter of Good Or Evil. 00:50:37 What Does The Future Of Software Look Like? 00:52:51 The Community Matters 00:53:58 The Photoshop Interface Built Adobe 00:55:06 Piracy Helped Build The Monopoly 00:56:00 No Free Version = No One Uses It... Or Cares. 00:58:57 Adobe In Trouble? 01:02:40 Has Adobe Forgotten How To Make And Promote Software? 01:03:32 The Street Price Of Creative Cloud 01:05:58 Adobe Actually Has A Great Deal... 01:09:10 The Traps Large Companies Fall Into 01:10:58 Business Models And Functionality Are Linked! 01:14:03 Photoshop IS Unique 01:17:34 The Real Issue? (AI) 01:19:25 The Hype Train 01:22:11 If AGI and Superintelligence Are Coming... Why Is Adobe Putting AI In Photoshop 01:24:51 The Double Speak Of Generative Imagery and LLMs 01:25:59 The Real Reason I Want OFF The Adobe Train Now 01:29:17 Takeaways! 01:30:14 The Analytical Takeaway 01:35:15 Marker 3 01:35:26 The practical Takeaway 01:37:27 The Philosophical Takeaway --------------------------------- --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Thirty Fifth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk Hustle vs Hard Work. Should we Embrace the Grind? Or Avoid Burnout? How do these concepts help our creativity... and the final art we create. Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- ARTISTIC GRIND AND HUSTLE CULTURE The grind is often seen as part of being an artist, with intense work expected in jobs like VFX and game development. Companies exploit young artists' eagerness, leading to burnout. Freelance work isn't much easier, requiring constant hustling. PRESSURE IN EDUCATION Students face pressure to grind through exercises to reach a professional level, driven by the need for validation. HARD WORK AND CREATIVITY Hard work is necessary for success and creating great art. However, the grind can lead to early burnout and health issues. Many idols who worked excessively hard didn't live long. REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS It's crucial to set realistic expectations about the amount of work needed in the industry. Understanding the industry's demands helps artists prepare for their first jobs and enjoy the process. UNDERSTANDING HUSTLE CULTURE Hustle culture promotes constant work and minimal breaks, which can be harmful. While working hard is important, it's vital to maintain health and well-being. CREATIVE FLOW AND DEADLINES Deadlines help focus and push creativity, but excessive crunch can cause burnout. Recognize the difference between productive pressure and harmful overwork. DISENTANGLING WORK ETHIC AND HUSTLE Work ethic and hustle are different. Hard work and dedication don't necessarily mean constant grinding. Enjoying the process and building a healthy relationship with art is more sustainable. SOCIAL VALIDATION Artists often seek social validation through hard work and high-profile projects. Understanding your personal relationship with hard work and creativity helps manage stress and expectations. FINDING YOUR RHYTHM Everyone's work rhythm is different. Some thrive under pressure, while others prefer a more relaxed approach. Identify what works best for you and adapt accordingly. KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Realistic Expectations: Understand the industry's demands and set realistic expectations for yourself. 2. Creative Flow: Use deadlines to focus, but avoid excessive crunch. 3. Healthy Relationship with Art: Build a positive relationship with your art, separating work ethic from the hustle mentality. 4. Personal Rhythm: Identify your preferred work rhythm and adapt your approach to suit it. --- --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action. --- This is The Thirty Fourth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie. Let's talk about challenge. And more importantly how finding the right level of challenge for your art can be a major key to your overall improvement and happiness as an artist. Below is in Automagically generated summary so you can check out the content and also to help with search functionality! --- CHALLENGE IN ART Finding the right level of challenge in your art is crucial. It’s easy to either bite off more than you can chew or take it too easy, resulting in unproductive work or lifeless creations. IMPORTANCE OF PUSHING YOURSELF To progress, you need to stay at the edge of your comfort zone. This involves understanding three key things: The edge of your comfort zone. When you're well within your abilities. When you're biting off more than you can chew. ARTISTIC CHALLENGE ELEMENTS Consider the following elements: Knowledge of the Subject: Do you know what you’re drawing? Technical Skills: Do you know how to draw it? Medium: Are you familiar with the tools and materials you're using? PRACTICE AND GROWTH A lot of artistic improvement comes from practice. Art, like sports or dance, is a physical skill that improves with repetition. The right amount of challenge helps you focus and enter a flow state, enhancing creativity. FINDING THE BALANCE Too little challenge is boring; too much is overwhelming. Aim for a "Goldilocks" zone where the challenge is just right, typically around 4% beyond your current abilities. MANAGING CHALLENGE Break down your challenges: Focus on one element at a time (e.g., drawing a castle, mastering a medium). Combine new elements gradually. Use familiar subjects to explore new techniques. BEGINNERS AND SIMPLE IMAGES For beginners, start with the simplest images possible and gradually increase complexity. Build a small comfort zone and expand from there. Even simple images can teach you valuable skills. ADVANCING TECHNIQUE If you're more experienced, incrementally add new elements (e.g., incorporating technical objects into fantasy scenes). This helps bridge gaps in your skills without overwhelming you. CREATIVE URGES AND CAREER GROWTH Creativity thrives on a mix of comfort and challenge. Always having a bit of uncertainty keeps the process exciting. Your goal is constant self-improvement without burnout. CONCLUSION Understanding and managing the right level of challenge keeps you motivated and helps you improve. It’s about finding a balance where you can push your abilities without feeling overwhelmed. --- 00:00 Intro 02:25 Welcome 02:47 Comfort Vs Challenge Vs Flow 07:32 Why The Right Level Of Challenge Is Key 14:28 The Different Aspects Of Challenge 23:27 Figuring Out Where You Are Right Now 30:40 The Analytical TakeAway 32:34 The Simple TakeAway 32:57 The Practical TakeAway 35:58 The Philosophical TakeAway 39:08 Out! --- The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey. We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice. You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411 Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Show Homepage: https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie: Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex: www.thedrawingcodex.com Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level: www.mightyartisan.com The Drawing Codex Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrawingCodex Mighty Artisan Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan Portfolio: www.timmcburnie.com www.artstation.com/tim-mcburnie www.instagram.com/timmcburnie x.com/timmcburnie