The Rules of Art (And How to Break Them) #4

You’ve been told to color inside the lines, follow the guidelines, and stick to the rules. But here’s a secret: every great artist breaks the rules.

Think about it—Van Gogh ignored realistic color, Basquiat scribbled over his own paintings, and Picasso shattered perspective as we knew it. Art isn’t about following a checklist. It’s about knowing the rules just enough to destroy them in your own way.

The Rules You’ve Been Told (And Why to Ditch Them)

“Art has to be realistic.”Nope. Abstract, distorted, surreal—some of the most powerful art is far from reality. Your work doesn’t have to “look real” to be real.

“Stick to one style.”Why? Experiment. Combine techniques. Mix traditional with digital. Your style is what you make it, and it doesn’t have to fit into a box.

“Good art takes a long time.”Some of the greatest works were made in hours. Others took years. Time doesn’t equal value—your expression does.

“Mistakes ruin art.”Wrong. Mistakes make art. That stray line? A new idea. That color that bled too far? A bold move. The best creations happen when you embrace the unexpected.

The Challenge

This week, break a rule on purpose. Smudge your lines. Use colors that “don’t match.” Paint over something finished. Make art that feels rebellious.

And when you’re done? Share it. Prove that rule-breaking is where the real magic happens.

Sketch Loudly. Stay Iconic.