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This is The Fiftieth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie.

Most artists think intent is fine art pretension, but it's actually the secret that transforms technically skilled work into art that connects.

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Let’s explore why artistic intent - often dismissed as "fine art nonsense" by commercial and entertainment artists - is actually the missing element that transforms technical skill into impactful work. The episode examines how the divide between fine art and commercial art education leaves technically proficient artists stuck in the "execution trap," where they can render beautifully but struggle to create work with purpose and direction.

The discussion covers the practical reality that most entertainment artists are trained to execute someone else's vision, never learning to be the author of their own work. Tim breaks down how intent functions as both creative direction and decision-making filter, turning random technical ability into purposeful communication. The episode provides concrete methods for setting and using intent in daily art practice, from individual drawing sessions to larger personal projects.

Rather than academic theory, this episode focuses on intent as a practical tool for working artists who want their technically solid work to create genuine connection with viewers. Tim argues that intent is what separates craft from art, and explores why many skilled artists unconsciously avoid developing this crucial element of their creative practice.

— Chapters

CHAPTERS:

• 00:00:00 Intro


• 00:01:05 Welcome


• 00:02:22 When Technical Skill Isn't Enough


• 00:09:07 The Intent Divide: Why We Avoid What We Need Most


• 00:24:57 Intent Creates Direction: From Technician to Author


• 00:42:54 Practical Intent: How to Actually Use This


• 00:52:02 The Analytical Takeaway


• 00:54:44 The Simple Takeaway


• 00:55:03 The Practical Takeaway


• 00:58:15 The Philosophical Takeaway


• 01:07:51 Out


• —

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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

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