Drawing and Using References in Art: A Controversy in the Tik Tok Art Community

Introduction

• Controversy over using references in art on Tik Tok.
• Artists are getting called out for using references in their work.

The Debate

Hypothetical Scenario

• Drawing directly from a reference without crediting the source.
• Questions about whether this could cause trouble for artists.

Mixed Opinions on Using References

• Mixed feelings in the community about using references.
• Some feel that using references is necessary for good anatomy.
• Art teachers often discourage using inspiration or references.

Historical Context

• Old masters used references for paintings to convey messages.
• Modern critics often omit this fact.

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Tracing and Using References: Arguments and Counterarguments

Criticism of Tracing

• Tracing is criticized by some as cheating and manipulating art.
• Many experienced artists look down on tracing.

Validity of Tracing for Learning

• Tracing can be useful for learning anatomy, perspective, and poses.
• Older artists may have forgotten how challenging these basics are.
• Tracing should be part of the learning process, not the end goal.

Portfolio Advice

• Suggestion to use personal or trusted sources for reference photos.

Copyright and Credit Issues

The Problem

• Using someone else's photo without credit is copyright infringement.
• Many artists unaware of the original source when using online images.

Artists Drawing from Cosplay Photos

• Debate about crediting cosplayers and other photo sources.
• Some cosplayers manually tag themselves in artworks that use their images.
• Giving credit to reference owners is suggested.

Examples and Opinions

• Different opinions on how much credit should be given to reference sources.
• Example: Nora F., a cosplayer, advocates for credit when the resemblance is clear.

Guidelines for Using References

• Use references to improve, not substitute for, your skills.
• Practice drawing from memory and using basic shapes to enhance skill.
• Using personal photos for references can help mitigate copyright issues.

Conclusion

• Reference usage should not be stigmatized or gatekept in the art community.
• Encouragement to use references responsibly while continuing to practice other drawing skills.
• Final plea for acceptance into the Tik Tok artist community, even for those who use references.
• Call to action: Like, share, and subscribe to the channel.