When I first started creating, I thought finding my artistic style was like finding a secret treasure chest. Surely there was some magical “aha!” moment waiting for me, and suddenly, my work would look like me. Spoiler: that moment never came. Instead, what I got was years of frustration, endless comparisons, and piles of half-finished projects that felt…flat.
But here’s the thing nobody tells you: your artistic style isn’t something you “find.” It’s something that emerges. It’s not a one-and-done event—it’s a slow, evolving process. And honestly? That’s kind of the beauty of it.
If you’re stuck in the “I need a style NOW” spiral, here’s how to let go of the pressure and let your creative voice develop naturally.
1. Stop Looking for Your Style and Start Looking at Your Work
Instead of obsessing over what your style should be, start paying attention to what it already is.
- Look at your past work: What colors, techniques, or themes keep showing up?
- Ask yourself: What feels fun? What feels forced?
- Notice patterns: Maybe you’re drawn to bold, graphic lines, or you can’t resist soft, dreamy palettes.
Your style is already there in pieces—it just might not feel cohesive yet. And that’s okay.
Personal Note: When I started digital art, I mimicked every trendy style on Instagram. But when I looked back at my early sketches, I noticed this weird love I had for glitch effects and neon colors. That became a cornerstone of my aesthetic.
2. Experiment Like a Mad Scientist
The fastest way to discover what you love? Try everything.
- Paint, draw, design, or write in ways you’ve never tried before.
- Use tools you’re unfamiliar with (Procreate, Photoshop, ink, watercolor, you name it).
- Play with formats: comics, illustrations, abstract art, even doodles on napkins.
Every experiment teaches you something, even if it’s just “I hate this technique.” Over time, the things that resonate will bubble to the surface.
Pro Tip: Give yourself permission to create bad art. Seriously. Some of my favorite discoveries came from pieces I thought were total failures at first.
3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
Comparison is the thief of joy—and also the thief of originality. It’s easy to look at someone else’s style and think, I need to be like them to succeed. But here’s the truth: what works for someone else won’t necessarily work for you.
Instead of copying, try asking:
- What do I like about their style? Is it the bold colors, the loose lines, the mood?
- How can I incorporate what inspires me without losing what makes my work unique?
Real Talk: I used to idolize one particular artist (not naming names, but wow, they were everywhere). I tried to emulate their work to the point where I felt like a knockoff version of them. It wasn’t until I stopped copying and started focusing on what made me happy that my own voice began to emerge.
4. Embrace Your Influences Without Letting Them Define You
Every artist is inspired by something—movies, books, music, other artists. And that’s a good thing! But your style shouldn’t just be a patchwork of other people’s work.
Use your influences as a jumping-off point:
- Love Studio Ghibli vibes? Experiment with storytelling in your work.
- Obsessed with vintage aesthetics? Incorporate retro palettes or textures.
- Can’t stop playing Cyberpunk 2077? Bring some of that futuristic grit into your designs.
Over time, your influences will blend into something uniquely yours.
5. Consistency Comes Later
Here’s the kicker: your style doesn’t have to be consistent right away. In fact, it probably shouldn’t be. Let yourself evolve naturally instead of forcing cohesion.
Think of your style as a patchwork quilt. Each piece might look different, but together, they create something beautiful. And as you keep creating, that quilt becomes more unified.
6. Your Style Will Change (And That’s a Good Thing)
Nobody’s style stays the same forever. You’re constantly growing, learning, and changing as a person, and your work will reflect that.
Some of the best artists I know have gone through wild style evolutions. One started with hyper-detailed realism and now makes vibrant, abstract pieces. Another went from minimalist design to chaotic maximalism. And both are thriving because they leaned into what felt authentic at the time.
Tips to Let Your Style Emerge Naturally
- Make a “Love List”: Write down everything you love—colors, moods, techniques, even random vibes like “rainy nights” or “neon lights.” Use this list as a guide.
- Set a Creative Routine: Consistency breeds discovery. Even 20 minutes a day can lead to breakthroughs.
- Collect Inspiration: Create a Pinterest board or mood folder of things that light you up, but don’t obsess over them. Use them as inspiration, not a blueprint.
- Keep a Sketchbook or Journal: Document your experiments, ideas, and thoughts. Looking back can reveal patterns you didn’t notice before.
A Personal Take on Letting Go of Style Pressure
There was a point when I almost quit creating altogether because I felt like I didn’t have a style. I spent so much time chasing what I thought I “should” be that I forgot why I started in the first place.
It wasn’t until I gave myself permission to just play—to make messy, imperfect, fun things—that I started to find my voice. And honestly? I’m still finding it. And that’s okay.
Wrap-Up: Style Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Your artistic style isn’t something you can force or fast-track. It’s a reflection of who you are, and just like you, it’s always growing and changing. So, instead of chasing some mythical, fully-formed version of yourself, focus on the process. Show up. Experiment. And trust that your style will find you when the time is right.