Hey everyone, Johannes here!

For those who are new to my blog, welcome! I create illustrations, comics, and other visual works. Today, I want to take you on a journey through my artistic evolution, specifically focusing on the period where I heavily relied on fanart and how I eventually found my own artistic voice.

The Allure of Fanart: A Gateway to Artistic Exploration

My artistic journey began, like many others, with a deep appreciation for existing works. From video games like “Metal Slug” and “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” to iconic characters like Batman and Donald Duck, I was constantly inspired by the worlds and characters brought to life by other artists.

Fanart became my initial playground. It allowed me to explore different styles, techniques, and storytelling methods. I could recreate iconic scenes from my favorite games, reimagine characters in new settings, or simply practice capturing their essence through my own artistic lens.

Here’s what I loved about fanart:

• Learning from the Masters: By replicating the work of established artists, I subconsciously absorbed their techniques for composition, lighting, anatomy, and character design. It was a fantastic way to hone my skills without starting from scratch.
• Fueling the Passion: Fanart kept the fire of creativity burning. When I wasn’t sure what to draw, I could always revisit a beloved character or scene and find inspiration.
• Connecting with the Community: Sharing my fanart online connected me with a community of like-minded artists and fans. It fostered a sense of belonging and encouraged me to keep creating.

The Challenge of Originality: Stepping Out of the Fan Zone

While fanart provided a solid foundation, I also felt a growing desire to create something truly my own. There was a nagging feeling that simply replicating existing work wouldn’t allow me to fully express my artistic vision.

Here’s where the challenge began:

• Finding My Voice: What kind of stories did I want to tell? What kind of worlds did I want to build? These were questions I needed to grapple with to develop my unique artistic voice.
• Overcoming the Fear of Failure: Stepping out of my comfort zone and creating original work felt daunting. The fear of rejection and negative criticism held me back.
• Developing a Consistent Style: Fanart allowed me to experiment with various styles, but for original work, I needed to find a visual identity that resonated with me and would be recognizable as “mine.”

The Journey of Self-Discovery: Experimentation and Growth

So, how did I overcome these challenges? Here’s how my approach shifted:

• Conceptual Sketching: I focused on brainstorming original ideas through sketches. I jotted down character concepts, story outlines, and visual themes. This helped me develop a foundation for my own stories.
• Life Drawing and Observation: I enrolled in life drawing classes to improve my observation skills and understand the human form more deeply. This knowledge proved invaluable in creating believable characters in my original work.
• Embracing Imperfection: I learned to let go of the fear of failure. Experimentation became key. Even if a piece didn’t turn out exactly as planned, it was a learning experience that pushed me forward.
• Finding Inspiration Everywhere: I started looking beyond established media for inspiration. Everyday life, nature, and even historical figures became potential sources for my own creative narratives.

This shift wasn’t a sudden transformation. It was a gradual process of experimentation, exploration, and self-discovery. But slowly, my original artwork started taking shape.

Finding My Place: Owning My Fanart and My Original Work

Today, I embrace both fanart and original work as part of my artistic journey. Fanart still holds a special place in my heart. It allows me to revisit my childhood passions and connect with other fans.

Here’s the key takeaway:

Fanart is not a crutch, but a stepping stone. It’s a way to learn, experiment, and develop the skills needed to eventually express your own unique artistic vision.

Looking Ahead: A Continuous Evolution

My artistic journey is far from over. There’s still so much to learn and explore. I’m constantly striving to refine my skills, develop my storytelling abilities, and push the boundaries of my creativity.

Whether it’s fanart, original illustrations, or comics, I’m committed to creating visuals that spark joy, inspire imagination, and leave a lasting impression.

Thank you for joining me on this journey! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. I’d love to hear from you.

Additionally, here are some resources that might be helpful for aspiring artists:

• Online art communities: Platforms like DeviantArt, Behance,