As an artist, references are an invaluable tool for inspiration, learning, and improving your craft. Whether you’re studying anatomy for a portrait, looking at a landscape for composition ideas, or simply seeking colour inspiration, references can help guide your creative process. However, it’s important to remember that using references responsibly is key to ensuring your work remains original and respectful of other artists’ creations.

At The Online College of Art & Design, we believe in the importance of developing your own voice as an artist while drawing inspiration from the world around you. In this blog, we’ll guide you on how to use references without copying, so you can maintain your artistic integrity while improving your skills.

1. Understand the Difference Between Inspiration and Imitation

Before diving into how to use references, it’s important to understand the distinction between inspiration and imitation. Inspiration comes from seeing something that sparks an idea or encourages you to explore a new concept. Imitation, on the other hand, involves directly copying someone else’s work without adding your own unique perspective.

When using references, it’s best to think of them as a jumping-off point rather than something to replicate exactly. For example, if you’re painting a portrait and use a reference photo to understand lighting or facial structure, you’re not copying; you’re learning from the reference to improve your understanding.

2. Transform the Reference Into Your Own Vision

One of the best ways to use references without copying is by transforming them into something new and personal. You can do this by adjusting elements like composition, colour, perspective, or style. Here’s how:

• Change the Composition: If you’re working from a reference image, try changing the layout of the piece. Shift elements around, crop sections, or even combine multiple references to create something original. This will help you avoid simply reproducing the reference. 
• Use Different Colours: References can be a great way to understand colour theory, but don’t feel confined to the colours in the reference. Use your imagination to experiment with different palettes that reflect your unique style and the mood you want to evoke in the artwork. 
• Alter the Medium or Style: If the reference is a photograph, try translating it into a completely different medium, like painting, digital art, or mixed media. Experiment with your own techniques and brushwork to add a layer of individuality. 

3. Break Down the Elements and Focus on Learning

Rather than copying a reference as a whole, break it down into smaller elements that you want to study or understand better. This will allow you to learn from the reference without simply replicating it.

For instance, if you’re drawing a figure from a reference, focus on one aspect at a time, such as anatomy, light, shadow, or proportions. This approach helps you gain a deeper understanding of the techniques used, and once you’ve mastered the individual elements, you can incorporate them into your own original creations.

4. Combine Multiple References

Using multiple references can help you create something unique and avoid directly copying any one source. By blending different ideas, you can form your own vision and develop a more complex and personal piece of art.

For example, if you’re painting a landscape, you might use one reference for the sky, another for the foreground, and a third for the overall atmosphere or mood you want to capture. Mixing references in this way allows you to build something that feels new and fresh.

5. Use References as a Learning Tool, Not a Crutch

While references are helpful, they should be used as a tool for learning, not as a crutch that hinders your creativity. Challenge yourself to create without looking at references as often, or attempt to draw from memory. This practice helps you develop your artistic skills and encourages you to think critically about what you’re creating.

The more you challenge yourself to draw or paint without directly copying from references, the more you’ll grow as an artist. You’ll develop your own visual language and become more confident in your ability to create original work.

6. Give Credit Where It’s Due

If your work is heavily inspired by a particular reference, especially when it comes to using photographs or images created by other artists, it’s important to give credit where it’s due. Acknowledge the source of your reference in your description or credits if you’re sharing the work publicly. This shows respect for the original creator and helps maintain ethical standards in the art community.

7. Create Personal References

Over time, it’s beneficial to build your own collection of references. This could include photographs you’ve taken, sketches, or life drawings. By using your own personal references, you can avoid the risk of copying someone else’s work while still drawing inspiration from the world around you.

Personal references also allow you to capture unique perspectives and scenes that no one else has access to, making your work even more original. Additionally, creating your own references can help you practise composition, lighting, and other techniques in ways that feel more authentic to your personal style.

8. Study from Life

One of the best ways to avoid copying is by working from life. Whether it’s drawing or painting a live model, still life objects, or a landscape in person, working from life gives you the chance to interpret the subject directly and use your skills to translate it into art. This method helps you develop your observation skills and encourages a deeper connection with your subject matter.

At OCAD, we encourage our students to incorporate life drawing into their practice as it sharpens their technical skills and fosters an appreciation for the nuances of real-world subjects.

9. Develop Your Own Artistic Voice

Using references effectively also means developing your own artistic voice. The more you experiment with different techniques and approaches, the more you’ll uncover what truly excites you as an artist. As you continue to develop your skills, you’ll find that your personal style begins to emerge, and you’ll rely less on direct references. Instead, you’ll instinctively know how to interpret subjects and bring your own unique perspective to your artwork.

At The Online College of Art & Design, we help our students cultivate their artistic voice by providing the knowledge and tools needed to enhance their creativity. Our expert tutors provide one-on-one feedback to help you fine-tune your skills and build a portfolio that reflects your individuality.

Conclusion: Use References to Fuel Your Creativity, Not Define It

References can be incredibly beneficial for learning and growing as an artist, but it’s important to use them responsibly. By transforming your references, experimenting with different approaches, and focusing on developing your own style, you’ll ensure that your artwork remains original and personal.

At OCAD, we believe that every artist has a unique voice waiting to be discovered. Our courses are designed to help you explore your creative potential, improve your technical skills, and build a portfolio that reflects who you are as an artist. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your practice, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to unlock your creative potential? Enrol in one of our courses today and begin your journey to becoming a confident, original artist!