On learning through "copying"

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What are the general thoughts about taking exisiting stuff, from comics or magazines etc, and try to recreate those scenes / models? Not just by laying the page on top or something but by building from the ground up. And then try and do it slightly different, angle-wise or even changes in the design.

Well I'm relatively new to the concept of art study (I've only been serious for 6 months or so) but this sounds like a good idea to me.  I believe that what you're suggesting is similar to doing an old master study but selecting your favourite comicbook artist instead.

I would say though that your average comicbook artist isn't going to be as technically skilled as your average old master.  As long as you understand that but are still happy to learn certain techniques from them - I would say go for it!  Anything that keeps the motivation levels up is worth considering.

My approach at the moment is to select an artist who's work I like - do a study of one of their pieces and then apply that to a piece from my own imagination.  This gives me a balance between study and more imaginative stuff and helps me apply what I've learned.

By the way I'm not frowning upon comicbook artists - one of my favourite artists of any genre is John Romita Jr.!

Anyway good luck with your objectives Agilix - keep going dude!