So you think you have it in you to be the next Pablo Picasso or Andy Warhol. Good for you. Though appreciating art can be enjoyed by everyone, creating art is an inherent talent that's often born and not made. Furthermore, even if a potentially great artist is born, he still has a very long way to go before he can be taken seriously as an artist. If you feel that you have the talent, it's time to be on your way to greatness ? as long as you're prepared for the rough ride ahead.

Basic Instinct

Art is not all about randomly splattering paint on canvas or molding clay with your bare hands. True art lies in the basics and in order to become great, you, like every artist, must go through the nitty-gritty of art's fundamental concepts.

In art school, artists are taught about the history of art, the proper mixture of colors, the proper handling of clay, etc. But possibly the most important skill that's taught and should be learned by all artists is in sketching. Indeed, grabbing your Cross pencil and sketching the fine lines of what will soon become your masterpiece is the most vital of all stages in the creation of art. The picture you create with your Cross pencil is one that you can use as the ultimate model for your painting or sculpture. By sketching the initial design with a Cross pencil, you are given the chance to erase mistakes and change certain aspects of your design, eventually leading to perfection. By taking the time to sketch with a fine Cross pencil, you create the blueprint of your masterpiece. Indeed, you can't get any more basic than that.

Art at Work

As soon as you've put down your Cross pencil, you are now ready to let your brush meet the canvas or put your able hands on the clay. Most artists find inspiration in their surroundings and you shouldn't be any different. You can play your favorite song as you work or you can work in silence, it's up to you. Remember that in art, there are no limits on what inspires you.

Your sketch will be there to guide you every step of the way. Watch the beauty you've created with your Cross pencil come alive on your canvas or clay. You are pouring your very heart and soul on your creation so marvel at every muscle, every sinew, and every detail that's coming alive before your very eyes by the minute. You are creating art by your own hands. What could be better than that?

Indeed, the possibilities are endless when you're creating art. A gallery showing could be on the way. In time, you might find yourself catapulted into the spotlight. Every living room will have a piece of you in it hanging on a wall or prominently displayed on a fancy table. People will even attempt to duplicate you and some might actually do it right. It really doesn't matter. You're an artist, so carry on creating.