Concept art is so much more than illustration. Its purpose is the expression of a single artistic vision. Designers who master it are hired by the largest movie and game studios. This is a dream career for many, but what is the best way to learn?

Given the abundance of YouTube tutorials, you many think a set of videos is as helpful as a course. However, this is a dangerous misconception. Although video lessons can be accessed for free, they have important drawbacks in comparison to any well-structured system. Here are several key reasons why online concept art classes are worth taking. They help develop expertise in ways that random tutorials never deliver.

The Concept of Concept Art

As a professional, you will be building a unique color palette and design elements for a project. Here, the concept refers to a unified visual system. The number of details may range from general ‘mood shots’ to thorough schemes of the characters. Concept images are basis for every final scene or image. With these tools, project managers can evaluate the big picture and spot potential flaws. As a result, there is less time and money spent.

Where You Should Study

A basic Internet search will provide a wealth of material for beginners – books and art lessons are aplenty. The sheer volumes may overwhelm. To grasp the fundamentals, you need structure. Do not expect to learn the art in a week or two. Success in learning relies on clear direction and well-organized lessons. This is why professional courses are the best. 

Some courses are free, others are paid. When it comes to professional education, top products are well worth the money. Not only will you learn from world-renowned gurus, but you will also receive feedback on your work. Few free services can provide it. 

Starting from Scratch

It is never too late to start learning. If you have no experience in drawing, you need to start with the fundamentals. These include: 

• lighting, 
• form, 
• value, and 
• perspective. 

You cannot grasp these concepts without practice. Learning will involve a lot of drawing and painting. Like other artistic forms, concept art requires you to see and recreate. 

The best projects are those which combine realism with imagination, so you will need to find a balance between the two. In the beginning, you can draw objects in front of you. The ability to draw from your head comes with practice. Gradually, you will learn the ropes of imaginative drawing, creating characters and objects in your mind.

Challenges of Self-Teaching

Of course, self-taught concept artists exist and some of them are true stars. However, most people find it difficult to master the profession on their own. This is a lengthy and tedious process requiring discipline and patience. Do not expect a few lessons to suffice. With no expert to guide you and assess your work, learning takes much longer, and results may vary.

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