What can I learn from Leonardo da Vinci in 2025

As I try to navigate life as an artist in 2025, I sometimes find myself (usually in the midst of boredom) trying to incorporate different creative interests—sketching, writing, studying, problem-solving. Sometimes, it feels crazy because there’s no way anyone would have the emotional, spiritual (or physical) stamina to pursue all those areas of creativity. But…then I think of Leonardo da Vinci. This guy painted The Last Supper and the Mona Lisa, yes—but he was also an engineer, a botanist, an anatomist, an inventor, a dreamer. And somehow, all of it was part of his art.

Da Vinci reminds me that curiosity is not a distraction—it’s fuel. He didn’t believe in separating disciplines. He sketched flying machines alongside studies of lilies. He dissected cadavers not out of morbidity but to understand how the body moved, so he could paint it more truthfully. I mean, that’s dedication. He kept notebooks full of questions, diagrams, and observations. That kind of restless, generous mind feels incredibly modern to me.

“Learning never exhausts the mind. It ignites it.”

We live in a time that often pressures us to specialize, to brand ourselves. But Leonardo teaches me that it’s okay—even essential—to stay wide open. That following your curiosity wherever it leads can actually deepen your work, not dilute it.

If I’m paying attention to his life, I also learn that “unfinished” doesn’t mean “unworthy”. Many of his paintings were left incomplete. He was slow, meticulous, and sometimes paralyzed by his own perfectionism. That hits home. I’ve learned that sometimes the fear of not getting it “right” can block the very thing I’m trying to express. But Leonardo’s notebooks, his questions, his explorations—they’re just as valuable as the paintings he completed. Maybe more.

And…there’s this: Leonardo never stopped observing and I love that. He watched water swirl. He tracked how birds flew. He studied the way lips curved when someone smiled. That kind of attention—to both the world and the self—is a practice I try to carry into my own work.

Leonardo da Vinci wasn’t just a genius. He was a student of everything, forever in awe of the world. And in 2025, in a world of fast takes and shallow scrolls, his life reminds all of us that it’s okay (even essential) to slow down, look closely, ask questions, and let wonder lead the way.

Using Complimentary Colors for Shading

Most people, when shading something, instinctively just add black or gray to darken a color. But there’s a much more vibrant and interesting way: using complementary colors for shading!

Instead of mixing black into a color (which can sometimes make it look dull or muddy), you can shade by adding a bit of its complementary color. For example, if you’re painting a bright yellow lemon, instead of reaching for black to create shadows, you could mix a little purple into your yellow. The result? A deeper, richer shadow that still feels colorful and alive.

“The key is blending gently.”

This trick works because complementary colors naturally tone each other down without making the color look lifeless. It also keeps your artwork looking more dynamic and natural, especially since shadows in real life often have subtle color shifts rather than being just plain gray.

Here’s a quick tip: the key is blending gently. You usually don’t want a harsh clash between the two complements — just a subtle shift that deepens the color. Start by adding tiny amounts of the complementary color and adjust until you get the shade you want.

Complementary shading is especially popular in painting, but it also works great in colored pencil work, pastels, or digital art. It’s one of those small techniques that can make your colors feel more professional and full of life.

Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever shaded without it!

How and When to use Complimentary Colors

Complementary colors are one of the simplest but most powerful tools an artist can use to make their work pop. These are colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel — like red and green, blue and orange, or yellow and purple. When placed side by side, complementary colors create a strong contrast that can instantly catch a viewer’s eye.

The best time to use complementary colors is when you want to create energy, excitement, or a clear focal point in your art. For example, if you paint a bright orange sunset behind a deep blue ocean, both colors will look more vibrant because of how they react against each other. The contrast makes each color seem even more intense.

“The best time to use complementary colors is when you want to create energy…”

You can also use complementary colors in smaller doses to draw attention to specific areas of a painting. A mostly green landscape with a few bright red flowers will naturally guide the viewer’s eye to the flowers without needing any extra tricks.

However, it’s important to use complementary colors thoughtfully. Too much of them side by side can be overwhelming or even uncomfortable to look at. One trick is to choose one color as the dominant color and use its complement just for accents. This creates a balanced, dynamic effect without overpowering the piece.

Complementary colors are not just for paintings, either. Designers, photographers, and even fashion stylists use them to create bold, memorable looks.

Once you start paying attention, you’ll see complementary colors everywhere — in nature, in ads, in your favorite artworks. Learning how and when to use them gives your art an extra level of impact that feels both exciting and natural.

Periods of Art: Mannerism

The Mannerism period of art history emerged in the late Renaissance, around the early 16th century, and lasted until the beginning of the Baroque period in the early 17th century. It developed as a reaction to the harmonious ideals and balanced compositions of High Renaissance masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo. Instead of striving for ideal beauty and naturalism, Mannerist artists embraced complexity, artificiality, and exaggeration.

Mannerism is characterized by elongated proportions, distorted poses, and ambiguous spatial environments. Figures often appear in unnatural, contorted positions, with exaggerated elegance and tension. Rather than focusing on calm, rational compositions, Mannerist works are often dramatic and emotionally charged, pushing the boundaries of proportion and perspective.

The movement originated in Italy, particularly in Florence and Rome, and was heavily influenced by the later works of Michelangelo, whose muscular, twisting figures and intense emotion were admired and imitated. Key figures of Mannerism include Jacopo Pontormo, Rosso Fiorentino, Parmigianino, and later, El Greco. Parmigianino’s Madonna with the Long Neck is a prime example of the style, with its unnaturally elongated figures and spatial ambiguity.

Mannerism also reflected the cultural and religious turmoil of the time, including the Reformation and the sack of Rome in 1527. These events contributed to a sense of instability and uncertainty, which was mirrored in the art. Unlike the confident, orderly world of the High Renaissance, Mannerism often conveyed anxiety, tension, and complexity.

Although initially criticized for its departure from classical ideals, Mannerism has come to be appreciated for its innovation, emotional depth, and bold experimentation. It served as a bridge between the perfection of the Renaissance and the dramatic flair of the Baroque, leaving a lasting impact on the trajectory of Western art.

Why I Love the Rococo Period

The Rococo period has always fascinated me. There’s something about its elegance, soft colors, and playful charm that makes it feel almost dreamlike. Emerging in the early 18th century, Rococo was a reaction to the grandeur and seriousness of the Baroque era. Instead of dark, dramatic themes, Rococo artists embraced lightness, romance, and beauty. Their work feels like an escape into a world of luxury and fantasy, and that’s exactly why I love it.

One of my favorite things about Rococo art is its attention to detail. Artists like Jean-Honoré Fragonard and François Boucher created paintings filled with soft pastels, flowing fabrics, and delicate brushstrokes. Their scenes often depicted aristocrats lounging in lush gardens, playful love affairs, or even mythological figures surrounded by golden light. Looking at their work feels like stepping into a fairy tale—one filled with music, laughter, and endless beauty.

One of my favorite things about Rococo art is its attention to detail.

But Rococo wasn’t just about paintings. It influenced everything from architecture to fashion. Ornate furniture, gilded mirrors, and intricate ceiling frescoes filled the homes of the wealthy, making everyday life feel like a work of art. Even today, you can see traces of Rococo style in modern design, proving that its charm never truly faded.

For me, Rococo is more than just an art movement—it’s a reminder that art can be lighthearted, joyful, and enchanting. In a world that often feels heavy, sometimes we all need a little Rococo magic to brighten our day.

Whirls of gold and light,

Soft pastels and joy take flight,

Elegance in bloom.

Exploring the Golden Ratio in Art

The Golden Ratio, also known as the Divine Proportion or Phi (about 1.618), has captivated artists, architects, and mathematicians for centuries. This mathematical concept is celebrated for creating harmony and aesthetic appeal in various art forms. But how do artists use the Golden Ratio? Let's explore its fascinating applications.

The Golden Ratio comes from the Fibonacci sequence, where each number is the sum of the two before it (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, etc.). As the sequence progresses, the ratio between successive numbers gets closer to the Golden Ratio (1.618). This unique proportion means the whole is to the larger part as the larger part is to the smaller, creating a visually pleasing effect.

The Golden Ratio has ancient roots, particularly in Greek culture, where mathematicians like Euclid and Pythagoras explored its properties. It gained prominence during the Renaissance, with artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo using it in their masterpieces. The Vitruvian Man and the composition of The Last Supper are prime examples of the Golden Ratio creating balance and harmony.

How Artists Use the Golden Ratio

Artists often use the Golden Ratio to divide their canvases into appealing proportions. By placing focal points along the Golden Ratio lines, they create compositions that naturally attract the viewer's eye. This technique is found in classical paintings, photography, and modern graphic design, helping to achieve balance and elegance.

The human body is a central subject in art, and the Golden Ratio helps achieve idealized proportions. Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man is a perfect example, with the human form mapped according to the Golden Ratio. This principle helps artists create balanced and naturally pleasing figures.

The Golden Ratio extends beyond visual art into architecture and design. Iconic structures like the Parthenon in Athens, the Egyptian pyramids, and modern buildings like the Guggenheim Museum in New York use these proportions. This application is also found in everyday objects, from furniture to logos, ensuring functionality and visual appeal.

The Golden Ratio appears in nature too, not just human creations. Spiral patterns in shells, leaf arrangements, and even animal body proportions follow this ratio. Artists often draw inspiration from these natural examples, creating works that resonate with the beauty of the natural world.

The Golden Ratio's allure lies in its ability to create harmonious and balanced compositions. By understanding and applying this ratio, artists can enhance their work's aesthetic quality, drawing viewers in with a sense of natural beauty and proportion. Whether in ancient sculptures, Renaissance paintings, or contemporary designs, the Golden Ratio remains a timeless tool in the artist's toolkit.

Steps to Becoming a Full-Time Professional Artist

Becoming a full-time professional artist is a dream many hold, but the path can seem really daunting. The world of art is as challenging as it is rewarding, requiring not just talent, but also persistence, strategy, and a keen understanding of the business side of art. Here's a list of ideas based on my own experience that might help you transition from a passionate amateur to a full-time professional artist.

1. Hone Your Craft

First and foremost, dedicate time to mastering your art. Whether it's painting, sculpture, digital art, or any other medium, consistent practice is crucial. Attend workshops, enroll in art classes, and seek feedback from mentors and peers. The more you refine your skills, the more distinctive and professional your work will become. Just because you can complete a painting, does not mean anyone would part with money to buy it. Ask for input and listen to critique. Growing your art skills is what this step is all about. Keep practicing and learning and never, ever stop.

2. Build a Strong Portfolio

Your portfolio is your artistic resume. It should showcase your best work, demonstrating your style, range, and progression as an artist. Include a variety of pieces that highlight different techniques and subjects. A well-organized, high-quality portfolio can make a significant impact on potential clients and galleries.

3. Create an Online Presence

In today's digital age, having an online presence is essential. Create a professional website to display your portfolio, provide information about yourself, and make it easy for people to contact you. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to share your work, engage with followers, and reach a wider audience. Regularly updating your online profiles can help keep you in the public eye.

4. Network and Connect

Building a network within the art community is invaluable. Attend art fairs, exhibitions, and gallery openings to meet other artists, curators, and potential buyers. Join local art groups or associations to stay informed about opportunities and events. Networking can lead to collaborations, exhibitions, and sales opportunities that you might not find on your own.

5. Understand the Business of Art

Art is not just about creativity; it's also about business. Learn how to price your work, manage your finances, and handle contracts. Understand the logistics of shipping and handling art pieces. Consider taking courses in art business or seeking advice from more experienced artists. A solid grasp of the business side can make a huge difference in your success as a professional artist.

“The journey to becoming a full-time professional artist is ongoing.”

6. Seek Representation

Gallery representation can provide significant exposure and sales opportunities. Research galleries that align with your style and reach out to them with your portfolio and then ask about the steps involved for representation. Don’t just show up or send them photos in an email. Show some respect and go the route they’ve already set up as far as approaching them to represent you. And…be prepared for rejection, as it's part of the process. Rejection is okay. It just means you’re looking at the wrong gallery. Persistence is key. Having a gallery represent your work can lend credibility and open doors to new audiences.

7. Diversify Your Income Streams

While selling original pieces is the goal, it's wise to have multiple income streams. Consider offering prints, merchandise, or commissioned work. Teaching art classes or workshops can also be a viable source of income. Diversifying your income can provide financial stability as you establish yourself in the art world.

8. Stay Inspired and Keep Creating

The journey to becoming a full-time professional artist is ongoing. Stay inspired by exploring new techniques, subjects, and mediums. Regularly challenge yourself with new projects and continue to grow as an artist. Passion and dedication are the driving forces behind a successful art career.

Becoming a full-time professional artist is a journey that requires dedication, strategic planning, and a love for your craft. By honing your skills, building a strong portfolio, creating an online presence, networking, understanding the business, seeking representation, diversifying your income, and staying inspired, you can turn your passion into a sustainable career. Remember, every artist's path is unique, so stay true to your vision and enjoy the creative journey!

The Worst Advice I’ve Ever Received as an Artist

Every artist’s journey is filled with moments of inspiration, growth, and, unfortunately, some misguided advice. Reflecting on my own path, one piece of advice stands out as particularly detrimental: “Stick to one style and never change.”

At first glance, this advice might seem practical. Consistency can indeed help build a recognizable brand. However, for an artist, this can be incredibly stifling. Art is about exploration, experimentation, and evolution. Being confined to a single style can hinder creative growth and limit the potential to discover new techniques and perspectives.

“Embrace change, experiment boldly, and let your art evolve naturally…”

When I first started, I was eager to find my unique voice. I experimented with various mediums, styles, and subjects. However, after receiving this advice, I felt pressured to conform to a single style that was gaining some attention. I spent months creating similar pieces, but over time, I felt my passion waning. My work became repetitive, and I lost the joy of creation. It wasn’t until I decided to break free from this constraint that I truly began to flourish. I allowed myself to explore different styles again, blending elements from various influences. This not only reignited my passion but also led to a more authentic and dynamic body of work. My audience appreciated the diversity and evolution in my art, and I felt more fulfilled as an artist.

The lesson here is clear: while consistency has its place, it should never come at the cost of your creative freedom. Embrace change, experiment boldly, and let your art evolve naturally. The worst advice I ever received taught me the importance of staying true to my creative instincts and the value of artistic growth. So, to all the artists out there, remember: your journey is uniquely yours. Don’t let anyone box you into a single style. Explore, evolve, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your art will be richer for it.

Question 3: "Did you go to art school? If so, where?"

“La Mer”

It has honestly surprised me how many people have asked me over the years if I’ve gone to art school or if I’m self taught. That question kind of makes me laugh because even artists that go to art school are self taught. If they’re any artist at all, they will spend the rest of their lives teaching themselves as they try new techniques and tackle new challenges. Just this last week, I ripped the canvases off of two good size pieces of mine and started all over. I know some folks will think that’s sad but it’s not at all sad: it’s growth. It may have been an experiment gone wrong, nevertheless you can’t help but learn from any experiment you work on, so although it was a frustrating thing to have to do (and humbling!), it was nevertheless successful. The pieces I’m working on as “round 2” are turning out SO much better than the previous “round 1”. That is a good thing.

But I digress. I would suggest that if someone were considering art as a career, I would absolutely suggest they ask an established artist whether or not they went to art school, and if so, which one and did they feel the experience prepared them for their future career as an artist.

I have strong feelings about art schools, because they can be really great or really a complete waste of money and time. A visit to the school and their student gallery will usually tell you all you need to know. If all the artwork is off the scale bizarre that will tell you something. If an artist wants to sell their work to the general public, then they need to consider what the general public would purchase. For instance, I once saw an “art piece” in a museum that was a clothes drier with lint balls coming out of it. That was it. I heard a guy behind me whisper to his wife, “that’s art??”. Really good question. I think sometimes that if art can sell, it ends up in a gallery. If it can’t sell, it ends up in a museum. I know that’s a horrible exaggeration but that’s how it feels sometimes.

My point in bringing that up is that if an art school doesn’t train the students in the “rules of art” (yes, there are rules), and if they’re just encouraged to express themselves with no guidance, the students will not be equipped to actually produce sellable art. They basically enrolled in an art therapy program, but I would recommend a would be professional artist hunts out a good school that will teach them technique and hammer the rules into them. Rules can be broken, but you have to be really skilled at how and when to break them. That requires learning.

Question 1..."How long have you been an artist?"

When an emerging artist thinks through the question “How do I get from where I am (a novice) to where I want to be (a professional), I have suggested interviewing artists and asking pointed questions. Most artists I know would be very happy (and even honored) to be asked for their assistance. If you’re an emerging artist, please take advantage of the willingness of the artists around you to advise and encourage you. With this in mind, I have suggested that an easy place to do all this is Asheville, North Carolina simply because we have over 200 artists all working within a square mile of each other, and they have open studios, so they’re totally used to people coming into their studios and observing them work. Believe me, we answer a LOT of questions. So come to Asheville and meet as many artists as you want to meet! Pick your favorites and then…ask if you can make an appointment to ask them some questions. This is key. This is telling the artist that you respect them. That is always a good idea. So once you have that appointment, I am suggesting twelve questions that should help you gain the basic information you need to move forward. For each of the questions, I’ll explain why I’m suggesting it, and then also answer each question myself (in case that might help anyone out there).

Question #1: How long have you been an artist?

The answer to this question sort of informs the weight you should give to all the other answers. I say that just because you probably will get more pertinent information from someone who has some years behind them. This doesn’t mean that someone who has just made the transition from art as a hobby to art as a profession won’t have helpful information. That person may well have the most helpful information for you, but asking how long they’ve seen themselves as an artist just gives you a good basic idea of who you’re talking to.

Personally, I’ve been an artist since I could hold a crayon. I’ve always drawn and painted as long as I remember. I made the transition from art as a hobby to art as a career about sixteen years ago now. I inched into the career as a part time artist (painting about half the day) and working at my “real job” half time, and then when I was earning the same with my artwork as I was earning at my “real job” when I did that full time, then I quit entirely and painted full time. That felt like the smartest way to do it because…what if I quit my job and painted full time and no one bought my paintings? I had to know this would work (as best I could) so I took advantage of the fact that I could cut down to half time at my previous job. That significantly decreased the nail biting when I quit and went to painting full time.

If you have any questions related to this, please feel free to ask here. I’ll do my best to answer all the questions you might have. Thanks!