It's important to me that I recognize those artists or works of art that influence and inspire me. I believe in celebrating the community of creatives that make a positive impact on the world. They are not my competition, they teach me valuable lessons. Today I want to recognize a fellow Canadian Artist who has had a profound impact on me and the work I want to create, Joel Robison.
A Bit About Joel
Joel is not only an accomplished artist, photoshop expert, and mental health advocate, he is a beacon of light. He approaches everything he does with a positive attitude and a belief that there is something he can do to effect positive change. Unlike some artists who wallow in the struggles and see the negative side of things, Joel always looks for the best in a situation and holds out hope that things will work out in the end. Just follow his Instagram stories and you will see for yourself.
I have been a member of Joel's Patreon account where I have learned countless photoshop techniques as well as how to navigate the demands of being an artist in a world of social media. There is some incredibly useful content there. Patreon is where I learned how he put together "Nightwatch In The Garden" which is my favourite piece of his. I even got a print of it for my inspiration wall!
I'm currently working my way through his Fantastic Photo Adventures course on Expert Photography. I believe it happens to be 50% right now so if you want to learn some amazing photoshop techniques, I highly recommend it. I thought I had learned all the photoshop tricks I could from Joel but I am still learning new things with each lesson!
How Has Joel Robison Impacted You and Your Work?
If you have perused my Galleries you may be surprised that someone who likes to explore darker themes would be so inspired by a whimsical and light-hearted artist. My palette is vibrant colours, deep shadows and edgier subjects whereas his palette is somewhat more subdued and as I already mentioned, whimsical. Pushing boundaries is something that I'm passionate about. I love boldness, strangeness, and power. But I don't wish to injure or damage people in the process. I want my people to take the plunge with me. To step out of their comfort zones willingly but with the strong belief that it is WORTH IT, and that they will experience incredible growth because of it. Where better to learn that skill than the Master of Hope himself?
While that may be the most important lesson I've learned from him, I've also learned many techniques for compositing that I consider invaluable. Tools that help me put my own work together. To make scenes more believable. I've discovered much about shadows, framing, and colour grading through his tutorials that I never expected.
In yesterday's blog post about the colour red, I shared an image called The Burning Red. The swing portion of that image was inspired by Joel's lesson, Spring Swing. In fact, it was the initial seed that took root in its development. I plan to share more about that image in the future, but for now, know that inspiration can come from anywhere!
And, if that wasn't enough, I know that if I am stuck searching for an idea, his handy little Creative Spark Cards just might give me something to work with.
Here are two images directly inspired by Joel's work. The first uses a template he offered on his Patreon. And the second takes the knowledge he's shared and applies it to my own environment.
Final Thoughts
During a time when we are continually scrolling social media and consuming the work of other artists, we tend to get bogged down in where we fit in. Or where we will find original ideas. In truth, everything has been done in some fashion already. The trick is to take what you admire and apply it to your own work. Now, I don't mean, go out and copy everything someone else is doing. But if, for example, you notice an element, a vibe, a technique, or a colour scheme that speaks to you on a deeper level, pay attention. Ask yourself how you can apply it to your own work.
And don't forget to show appreciation to the artists that teach you something. So, Thank You, Joel, for often being my creative north star! Whenever I'm in doubt about what I am trying to show the world, I ask myself, "What would Joel do?"
You can learn more about Joel at https://www.joelrobison.com/
Who Inspires You?
I'm always on the lookout for new inspiration, I'd love to hear who inspires you.
